Advice for Nursing Students?

[Linaeve]

I am currently still in school, but after reading many articles on the 'new grad epidemic' I figured it was time to really look into my future. Before graduating and becoming licensed, what can I do to gain experience? I've noticed some hospitals around my area offer 12 weeks of training and experience in exchange for a bit of cash. Has any nurse done this kind of training, and was it beneficial? What about other programs that are pretty similar, but not the 'one/two year med/surg experience' that everyone seems to want?

I'm not sure if it is too soon to think about this sort of thing, but I'm not about to step back and become part of the epidemic. If there is anything I can do to further my training, experience, and education outside of a classroom and in a clinical setting, I am completely willing to do so. :)

I appreciate any and all advice!

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

Your best bet is to get a part time or per diem job working as a nurses' aide. Most facilities will hire nursing students who have completed clinical placements into this role- you do not need to become a CNA. Working as an aide gives you experience working in a hospital- you get comfortable working with patients, you learn some of the basics and you learn some time management skills. And if your facility likes you, it may land you an RN position.

[♑ Capricorn ♑]

I am currently still in school, but after reading many articles on the 'new grad epidemic' I figured it was time to really look into my future. Before graduating and becoming licensed, what can I do to gain experience? I've noticed some hospitals around my area offer 12 weeks of training and experience in exchange for a bit of cash. Has any nurse done this kind of training, and was it beneficial? What about other programs that are pretty similar, but not the 'one/two year med/surg experience' that everyone seems to want?

I'm not sure if it is too soon to think about this sort of thing, but I'm not about to step back and become part of the epidemic. If there is anything I can do to further my training, experience, and education outside of a classroom and in a clinical setting, I am completely willing to do so. :)

I appreciate any and all advice!

I'm not sure how much more school you have left, you didn't say. But, if you're only months away from graduation start your job hunt NOW! Don't wait until its too close to graduation or after. When you do your senior clinical externship, inquire about employment there after graduation. Seriously, get to know the nurse managers and supervisors, and fellow nurses at your hospital. Get your name out there and your face known. Network with people who can help you. If your school has any kind of employment assistance, take advantage of that.

Until then, you can work as a nurse tech at your hospital. I personally wouldn't pay for that extra training you mentioned. You're already a nursing student and have some knowledge, that should be a given.

Good luck.