[soon2be]

I prefer small-town country-ish/rural type settings. I am just wondering... are there actually RN jobs in these areas also? Or does the nursing shortage myth also apply to places like Stockton, Fresno, Visalia, Tulare, Bakersfield?

Responses from people who have tried to find jobs in these areas are appreciated, since you know full well what the job market is like.

Thanks!

[TheCommuter]

I lived in Bakersfield for 2 years, from 2003 to 2005. There are plenty of nursing jobs in the Central Valley, and being bilingual would be helpful due to the large number of Spanish-speaking people who call this region home.

[suzanne4]

There are always jobs, but there are not always new grad programs. Usually the number of new grads in an area exceeds the number of openings.

[lvnhopeful]

Hello, I am in Tulare County, currently a student. By watching the ads I have noticed that there are always jobs advertised by LTC and SNF facilities, but not always hospitals. From what I understand, the pay is pretty good here.

You might want to look at some of the local papers online to view what they have to offer.....

Also, there are a lot of agencies that are hiring here, but they usually, not always, want a years experience. I hope that helps.

[soon2be]

What is the difference between a new grad program versus just finding a job after graduation that's not a new grad program?

THanks!

[TheCommuter]

Originally Posted by soon2be

What is the difference between a new grad program versus just finding a job after graduation that's not a new grad program?

THanks!

New grad program = lengthy orientation period, lengthy preceptorship, and the possibility of going directly into a specialty without "doing your time" in med/surg. If the facility does not have a new grad program, you might be thrown in there without these things.