Can You Be a Nurse and a Musician Simultaneously?

The question of whether one can pursue both a career in nursing and a passion for music might seem daunting at first. However, it is far from impossible, and there are many examples of individuals successfully juggling these two worlds. This article aims to provide insights and advice based on the experiences of prospective and current medical students who also maintain their love for music.

Integrating Two Careers

The idea that one must choose between a healthcare career and a musical profession is a common misconception. According to a musical professional, 'Yes! Of course, you can be a medical worker and a musician at the same time.' The speaker, who has been a full-time musician throughout their career, also noted that many of their musician friends held full-time jobs during the week and played gigs on the weekends. Examples include a chiropractor who was an excellent sax player, a lawyer who was an excellent singer, and a school teacher who was an excellent guitarist. These examples show that blending a medical career with a musical one is not only possible but also highly achievable.

Flexibility and Commitment

While merging both careers is feasible, it requires significant commitment and flexibility. A career in the medical field, particularly nursing, often involves long working hours. One former nurse advised, 'Even dead, you’re working your shift, and you can plan the rest later.' Another pointed out that working in healthcare is not flexible, and you must be present and fully committed during your shifts. Even if one is ill, they must still work, emphasizing the demanding nature of the profession.

Striking a balance

Future pharmacist and musician, Mohsen, shared his personal experience. He is currently pursuing a graduate degree in pharmacy while studying jazz guitar at Humber College in Toronto. Mohsen’s initial plan was to have a reliable career in healthcare while developing his musical skills on the side. He managed to finish his degree successfully but acknowledged the ongoing struggle to excell in both fields and the need to make tough choices. He will need to balance studying music full-time with taking a semester off to prepare for his evaluation exam for pharmacist licensing in Canada.

Long-Term Planning and Priorities

The challenges of balancing these two careers are significant. According to one medical student, 'Nursing and med tech are two completely different careers. Coordinating your life responsibilities is your job.' No career can cut slack to accommodate the other, especially when patient needs are the top priority. Therefore, one must prioritize and manage their time effectively. For instance, Mohsen needed to study music full-time for a period to improve his skills and connect with fellow musicians. However, in the future, he plans to find a balance between being a part-time pharmacist and musician.

Practical Tips for Success

While blending nursing and music can be challenging, it is not impossible. Here are some strategies to consider:

Plan ahead: Coordinate your work shifts and performance schedules to minimize conflicts. Communicate: Discuss your needs and commitments with colleagues, supervisors, and managers to ensure you can meet both your work and music obligations. Set priorities: Recognize that healthcare needs to come first due to patient safety and satisfaction. Stay committed to both careers: Keep practicing and honing your skills in both fields. Consider alternative revenue sources: A part-time job in a less demanding field can provide financial security and support your music career.

Conclusion

While balancing a career in nursing and being a musician may not be easy, it is entirely possible. Many successful professionals have done so, and it is important to recognize that you can pursue your passion alongside a demanding career. The key lies in effective time management, prioritization, and a willingness to adapt. With determination and a clear plan, you can thrive in both fields.

Remember, your skills will remain with you as long as you keep practicing and keeping the fire burning. Studying something else and being a musician might actually be a wise choice. Music is not a profitable career, but it is highly competitive, and it can be incredibly challenging to make a living with music. However, the passion, discipline, and creativity you gain can enrich both your medical and musical careers.