Questions for an almost nurse

I start a accelerated ADN program n Aug 25 so I am about 17 months from graduating. I have a few questions for those in the area already out there. I will be looking for work in Dallas, Texas and surrounding areas.

What is the average starting salary for new graduate ADN nurses?

Where is the best place to work? Where do you work, do you like it/dislike it, and why?

What are your hours? Did you have a choice about which hours you worked? What were your choices? Do you work holidays? Do you have a choice about holidays?

I am a single mom of a now 13 year old who will almost 15 when I graduate. I know he will be old enough to look after himself for a while, but still want to keep his time alone to a minimal. They say that especially in the preteen years unsupervised time is what leads to trouble.

For those single moms....

What hours work best for you? What do you do with your children ? What about holidays? The only holiday I am really worried about is Christmas. I would hate to leave my child alone all day on Christmas. Anyone else with this issue, and what did you do?