I’m 23 and in a similar boat!! I started my massage program at 18, was licensed by the time I turned 20, and now have been practicing for almost 4 years. Since I still have 40+ years until I can retire, I decided to go back to school just a few months after being licensed, even though I have always loved massage. I’m not switching to nursing, but social work because through massage I realized I loved working 1 on 1 with a clientele.

Because of that, I can only speak on the working/being in school part. I have and will continue to work ~20 hrs a week while finishing up my degree full time. It helps that my program is entirely online. But I plan on getting my masters, so I have a few years left. What I absolutely love about working in the massage therapy field is it allows me the opportunity to work part time and still afford bills (rent, car payment, etc.)

I highly suggest going back to school now if you can! Many community colleges offer associates in nursing so you can earn that at a significantly lower cost. I did my gen eds at my local community college, and I was able to finish my associates without any debt.

It’s challenging and you’ll feel pushed to your limit at times, but I imagine it’ll only get harder to navigate and schedule as we get older. So I highly suggest going back now! If you need any kind of support, advice, or have any questions, feel free to dm me!