Shannon Penney, a 37-year-old registered nurse in New York City, recently completed her first year in the field, making $120,000 annually. Penney, who previously worked in the advertising industry, made the career switch during the pandemic, motivated by a desire for more meaningful work. Despite the sacrifices she knew she would have to make, including longer hours, Penney is dedicated to giving back to society through her work.
Penney, who lives in a 550-square-foot apartment with her dog, has robust savings and is debt-free, thanks in part to financial support from her parents. She is also mindful of her spending and budget to live within her means. However, costs for her dog and mental health care can still squeeze her budget, especially as her mental health care expenses have increased since switching to nursing.
Although Penney is financially secure, she feels a sense of discomfort with the inequities she sees in the healthcare system, particularly on the hospital floor where she works, where wealthier patients can afford luxurious private rooms. Despite the challenges, Penney is committed to her career as a nurse and is hopeful about the improvements in the nursing industry, such as rising wages and staffing levels.
Penney’s story reflects the broader trend of young professionals seeking more purposeful work, even if it means making sacrifices. She is also part of a growing number of nurses entering the workforce, contributing to the recovery of the nursing field after the challenges of the pandemic. Through her work, Penney grapples with the realities of a lopsided economy and the inequalities within the healthcare system, but remains dedicated to making a difference in the lives of her patients.
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