Year Abroad After Nursing School

[cassdevo11, BSN]

I'm currently a nursing student, but I also have a second degree in Spanish. I have the opportunity to participate in program that gives grants to American college graduates to teach English in Spain after graduating. I have almost 3 years of experience working as a CNA in the float pool of a hospital and 2 years of experience working in a memory care facility. I would like to participate in this program, then work as a nurse when I return. I would like to do this now before I settle down with commitments, and that way when I get back I could fully devote myself to advancing my nursing career. I know that this isn't recommended for new graduates, but I'm just curious if anyone has taken a year off after nursing school and has had success finding a job afterward or if anyone has any advice. Thanks!

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

Highly not recommended. You have too much to lose in terms of thinking like a nurse, skills, and opportunity for new grad programs. However, your fluency in Spanish will likely serve you well in terms of job opportunity in a variety of settings.

[Maddyannie]

Hmmm as far as I know potential employer will like t know what too you so long before getting a job as a nurse. They really like it when people stated working right after school. I finished school in December and started working on February right after I pass my boards and six months later a potential employee was really impress by that. But good luck everyone has a different story.

[elkpark]

You would be an "old new grad" upon your return, and that is the group with the most difficulty finding employment.