Anyone applied/participated/interviewed for the VALOR program?

Journeyman · Feb 11, 2011

I am applying to the valor program too. Have you found out any tips? interview questions?

cogath · Feb 12, 2011

I have applied to the program too. One of my old professors used to do research at the VA and stated that the veterans were a very giving, selfless population to work with -- always willing to volunteer for studies if they thought it would benefit someone else. Also, the VA does a TON of research and therefore has a lot of up-to-date and cutting edge technology or so I've read. It seems like an excellent and unique place to work. I wrote a cover letter detailing my experience and why I wanted to work there.

I'm not sure about the VA but I have had three other interviews for similar experiences. They always asked what about about the organization made you want to apply! (Really research and know specifics, this is impressive and shows your interest) also what made you want to be a nurse, what speciality do you want/when do you see yourself in 5 years, describe a time when you worked with a challenging patient, describe a time when you went above and beyond for a patient, describe what makes you a good candidate, describe how you handle conflict in the workplace. Also, a few had behavior-based and personality questions: Name a time when you had to go against a policy. Name a time when you disagreed with a supervisor and how you approached it. What is the hardest decision you've ever had to make? How do you prioritize care/what do you do when you've got a lot of work and a little time? Describe a time when you had to deal with someone different from you/describe a time when you've had to handle difficult issues around diversity.

Have been asked all of these questions & more.

Journeyman · Feb 12, 2011

Thank for the advice. Lots of questions to think about.

klc2 · Feb 12, 2011

Thanks so much for the response. That helps a lot!

Tarabara · Feb 12, 2011

wow looks like I'll need to brush up on my interviewing skills!

Just curious where are you guys applying? I'm applying for the VALOR program in Arizona

klc2 · Mar 8, 2011

I'am applying in Washington State. I have my interview on Monday so we will see.....Good luck to you!!

KLNS · Mar 19, 2011

@KLC2

How did the interview go? I am interested in the VA Valor program and wanted to know what type of questions are asked?

cogath · Mar 19, 2011

I had my interview too and I loved it! I found everyone really friendly and I am really excited about the opportunity to work at the VA, they have a lot of very unique opportunities.

klc2 · Mar 19, 2011

The interview went well... I find out the first 2 weeks in April. So keep your fingers crossed for me :) Although I think the odds are against me, she said there were 80 applicants and they were accepting 7 students.

I think most VALOR interviews are conducted a little differently. With mine, we sat down and she asked some generic questions about my schedule and then handed me a piece of paper with questions/scenarios that I had to write out the answer to. One was a problem solving question, another asked for a clinical experience, strengths/weaknesses.

You will do great! Since a VALOR must have already finished their junior year we have all had clinical experience to draw upon when answering the questions, so use your experiences!

puravidaLV · Mar 24, 2011

I just applied to mine, sadly though no one knew when the dead line was to turn in applications and it was during our spring break. I just happened to be turning it in that day and found out.

Yeppie for being broke and not taking a vacation ...iguess

cheezn4life · Mar 25, 2011

Hey everyone!

I just got offered an interview for the Valor Program where I live... any advice?

Thanks :))))