Advice for a new grad on going into pediatrics

[RNker, BSN]

I'm a recent graduate from an accelerated, 12 month ABSN program. I'm desperately wanting to find a job in pediatrics, my clinical was the best experience I've had so far in nursing. I also have extensive background with kids, working as a nanny and a babysitter for 11 years. I didn't even think that would be what I was going to want to go into before school , and i fell in love with it.

It seems like the only way you can get into a speciality now is to go through a residency program. I've applied to one, but the other pediatric hospital in the city I'm moving to doesn't even have one. It seems like it's crazy competitive, and while I'm eager for nursing in general, I do not want to start off in adults when I know that's not where my hearts set on. I'm completely open to general medicine in the pediatric population, but I don't want to make a big move just to be doing something that my heart isn't in.

Does anyone with a pediatric background have any advice for me? I'll be meeting with managers at a pediatric hospital next week. How can i come off as passionate as I am about going into this field? And how can i make myself more marketable? I have background as a CNA/STNA at a SNF when I was in undergrad. I have two bachelors (psych and my BSN) and graduated cum laude from my ABSN (don't know if that matters). I'm getting so discouraged, and hoping that I don't have to start looking in other cities.

[llg, PhD, RN]

Apply for everything peds. Did you apply to the hospital without a formal residency program? (You weren't clear on that.) A lot of good hospitals don't offer formal new grad residencies -- so don't use that as a criteria. Be flexible. Don't insist on a certain work schedule, sub-specialty, etc.

Don't be too gushy and emotional in your interviews (and like you are in your post). Strive for calm, confident and professional. Of course you will find a peds job -- you were a great student and you have relevant experience -- you just hope you find it now and don't have to wait for it.

Good luck!