2yr Nursing Grad waiting to take NCLEX in Feb/Mar & wants RESUME tips (e.g. write BSN?)

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Hello, I had just graduated from a 2 year nursing program at a community college in December 2014. My checklist on the BON indicates that the "Letter of completion" was processed on Dec. 26, 2014, so I am waiting for my ATT to schedule my NCLEX hopefully at the end of Feb/Mar.

In the meanwhile, I would like to learn how to begin revising/tailoring my current resume to a glamorous nursing standard (or just as good) to begin sending to job posts and employers.

HOWEVER, how do I professionally indicate that I have not yet taken/passed the NCLEX yet, AND if I have not yet enrolled in a BSN program yet?

I am unsure if I must include the BSN detail yet, but I do know that in my NJ/NY area as per many hospital ADN (Associate degree nurses) RNs I have spoken to, matriculating in a BSN WILL most surely consider you a candidate. So, I would think including that I have an intention in enrolling in a BSN program is appropriate, but I would like someone to confirm that it is appropriate. I feel like I'd be lying, and I value honesty.

Please kindly advise my fellow nursing friends, thank you!!

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.
HOWEVER, how do I professionally indicate that I have not yet taken/passed the NCLEX yet, AND if I have not yet enrolled in a BSN program yet?

The first is very easy: until you pass the NCLEX, you can not use "RN" in your title. You can list yourself as Kit Kat, or Kit Kat, GN (if your state allows graduate nurses to practice before they pass the NCLEX). Mention in your cover letter that you will be taking the NCLEX in February.

The second: you can't really address this in your resume. If you are enrolled in a BSN program, then you can list it under the Education section. Otherwise, address the BSN or other educational plans in your cover letter. You can say that once you have passed the NCLEX that you intend to enroll in a bridge program (most bridge programs won't accept you until you're an RN anyway).

Best of luck!

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Specializes in Pedi.

Agree with above. Your title on your resume should be "Kit Kat, ADN"- you are not an RN so cannot call yourself one. If you have not enrolled in a BSN program, it doesn't belong on your resume. You explain in your cover letter that you anticipate taking NCLEX in February and plan to enroll in a BSN program.

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The first is very easy: until you pass the NCLEX, you can not use "RN" in your title. You can list yourself as Kit Kat, or Kit Kat, GN (if your state allows graduate nurses to practice before they pass the NCLEX). Mention in your cover letter that you will be taking the NCLEX in February.

Thank you Meriwhen! So, just the clarify... indicate the date of my NCLEX in my cover letter ONLY? Or also in my resume?

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Agree with above. Your title on your resume should be "Kit Kat, ADN"- you are not an RN so cannot call yourself one.

Thank you KelRN215! So, which of the two is best to put down on my resume... "Kathleen, ADN" or from Meriwhen's post "Kathleen, GN"?

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Specializes in HH, Peds, Rehab, Clinical.

I'd use GN. ADN is your degree, NOT what you are, know what I mean?

Thank you KelRN215! So, which of the two is best to put down on my resume... "Kathleen, ADN" or from Meriwhen's post "Kathleen, GN"?
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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

Welcome!

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I'd use GN. ADN is your degree, NOT what you are, know what I mean?

Yes, I understand, just wanted to clarify...Thank you!

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