Wow, AMY, what a wonderful problem to have- so many options available from which to choose.

Okay to answer some of your questions:

Research Nurse positions usually require a BSN, often include research coordinator duties such as recruitment, informed consent process, scheduling visits, performing study measures (labs, EKG, etc.), dispensing IP (investigative product, i.e. study drug, device or treatment) plus data entry & management. Sometimes start up of new study takes extra time learning protocol, getting IRB approval, enrolling subjects, screening visits, and more. It can be a lot to absorb for anyone, even seasoned research nurses. Having expert organizational skills is essential.

I was fortunate to enjoy an APRN position in the neurology department which was split between clinical practice and coordinating research studies. Over time the Brain Health Center has learned that APRNs who see dementia patients daily can burn out. With recent hires APRN positions will be 50% Cognitive Disorders clinic and 50% research. We think this will be interesting and challenging, but more able to provide a work-life balance.

I found graduate school to be challenging; working part-time suited my needs best. But times are different as there was no internet or online classes. I would have been overwhelmed taking on a new job and starting grad school simultaneously, but that’s me. Change is stressful-even changes we choose.

Best to know the reasons you make a choice- do I need to change employment for financial reasons? Do I need a change from my current job stress?

You have 6 months before school starts. A position in research might be interesting and may suit your needs. If the job responsibilities have flexibility, it may be possible to continue in that position when classes start. We had a nurse here at Goizueta ADRC who pursued her masters at Emory while still working.

Any choice you make is not forever- everything changes. Good luck, hope this helps.