Improving my chances of landing LPN job while in school

[SpartyCam]

Hi everyone. I just got accepted into a local ADN nursing program. We had orientation a couple weeks ago.

At orientation, the presenter mentioned something about taking the NCLEX after the first year of nursing school, and then working since it will increase your chances of getting an RN job after you graduate. I am going to sound like a total newbie here, but just to make sure, I assume that she meant the NCLEX-PN and trying to get an LPN job after the first year of the ADN program? If so, what can I do to increase my chances of getting an LPN job, preferably in the Lansing area. What are some hospitals, facilities that I should apply to? I don't have much of an employment history. I worked at a Qdoba restaurant for two years, and have some volunteer work, that's about it. I'm not even sure who I can list as a reference sadly.....

Anyhow, thanks for any help.

[SnowStar4]

Yeah she means the NCLEX-PN and work as an LPN during school. Some schools allow for that which is nice, some don't.

As for getting a job I would network as much as possible. Talk to friends who work in hospitals to help you out, and give your resume to managers while at your clinicals. And, don't discount your work at Qdoba. Having a job- any job- helps. It shows you can be responsible and are doing more with your life that wasting it away. Plus since hospitals are all about the customer service now it fits in.

Good luck!

[SpartyCam]

Thanks Snowstar :)