Anyone have trouble finding a job after Excelsior

Nursing Students Online Learning

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I just passed the NCLEX last week and started applying for jobs. I had my first interview today and have two more scheduled for tomorrow and Monday. However, the lady was not at all nice or encouraging and I think once she found out I graduated from Excelsior she no longer seemed interested.

Here's my story for background. I actually was grandfathered into Excelsior's program as an EMT-B and CNA way back before they changed the requirements. I took my time and tinkered away at general requirements until about a year and a half ago when I really pushed myself and got through all the NC and CPNE last December. This is my dream and the only way I could achieve it. Being the sole insurance carrier for my family I had to remain working full time through school. I am so glad this oppurtunity was availabe. However the only clinical experience I have is working as a CNA a few years back before having to change jobs for insurance reasons.

While going through Excelsior I called all the local hospitals to see if they would work with me on clinicals and not one of them would. So I was unable to find a way to get clinical experience which is now a problem.

The interviewer today expressed concerns that I didn't have clinical experience but at the end of the conversation told me that I have such a positive attitude that I will end up being successful. However, she also answered a phone call from her manager during the interview and spent 5-10 minutes talking with her. Can you say ackward?? The interview tomorrow is the position and hospital that I really want to work up but am now feeling discouraged.

Has anyone experienced this sort of prejudice or have any advice? I have worked my tail feathers off to get my RN license.

Specializes in LTC, case mgmt, agency.

Amber07, I would contact EC and ask for a letter of reference and clinical competence. That is what I did. Have not gotten it yet though. I asked for it about a week ago and was told they would send one. Try to get one from previous employers when you were a CNA, etc. At least it is something. Good Luck!:D

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Specializes in Psych, LTC, Acute Care.

Amber I am so sorry to hear that. I still would not give up if I were you. I think your situation is a little different than most because many are EMT's or LPN's. I'm sure they probably see you as a liability(maybe, I'm not sure). Are you sure it's not your interviewing skills. I like what another poster said about using words like independent thinker, motivated etc. Please don't give up but you may want to consider interviewing at clinics and LTC facilities or even those acute rehab centers. You are doing all that you can do. Keep trying, I'm sure its a matter of time before something turns up.

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Specializes in PICU, ED, Infection Control, Education, cardiology.

I saw a sign today and I did not really think about it until now. The sign was for a lecture at the hospital I work at. I was Switching from tradition to evidence. That is really true of how online schools are becoming popular. I strongly believe nursing has not caught up to the technologies yet. As to your problem, I feel for you. I was in the same position as you but the hospital I was applying for let me use professional referneces instead. EC is a good program, and like all nursing schools, tehy turn out bad nurses mixed in with the good. I tend to think of it as dilutional. There are not many EC grads compared to all the nurses that fload hospitals in may when there is graduation. If a manager gets soured by one EC grad, it may be a long time before another comes along. It will work out for you. EC has never held me back. I work in the pediatric ICU. Which is a very tough area I think. No one cares what school I went to. All that matters in teh end is my kids are breathing at teh end of the shift, b/c sometimes thats all you can ask for.

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Well I got a job offer last night with the second facility I interviewed with. It would be working in the Maternity unit. I officially accepted the offer and start in a week and a half. I am so excited but am also getting nervous now. They do a six week preceptor training. That seems about what all the hospitals were offering with the exception of one. That one was twelve weeks but was also at the first hospital which was the horrible interview. I am worried though that I will not know anything or feel comftorable on my own after that period. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions?

Also thanks for all your help and support. I believe it was also why I felt more confident during the second interview. :D

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Specializes in Home Health, Podiatry, Neurology, Case Mgmt.

CONGRATS! :yeah:

I hope that you enjoy your new job...to answer you about the preceptorship, IF at the end of 6 wks you still feel VERY uncomfortable, simply go to HR or your preceptor and find out if they can extend another 2, 4, 6 wks, whatever may make you feel more comfortable.

I think you will do great, please let us know how you end up liking everything!:redpinkhe

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Specializes in LTC, case mgmt, agency.

:DAWESOME AMBER07!!! Glad you have a foot in the door. Your anxiety is 100% normal. Most facilities will give you a little more time if you need it, but usually not alot more. Also, you'll have other co-workers to use as a resource when you are on your own. Don't dwell on what is down the road. You may find that you are ready sooner than the 6 weeks. But, I'll pray for you and I just wanted you to know how truely happy I am for you. I am wishing you the best. :ancong!:

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

My tip? BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!! If you can pass the CPNE, you can orient to a unit in 6 weeks. Congrats, girl!!!! :D That is so awesome!!! :) :) :) Thrilled for you!!

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CONGRATULATIONS!

Just keep your mouth shut, don't contradict anyone even with a question, and be a sponge.

You'll rock.

:)

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Specializes in Psych, LTC, Acute Care.

I'm so happy you found a job! I knew you would sooner or later. Since it is in Maternity you may want to freshen up on terms in Labor and delivery and refresh on some of the medications. I'm sure you will get a lot out of the 6 week training. Good Luck to you!

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Specializes in LTC, Acute Care.

That rocks! Congrats! I hope to find a maternity, L&D, whatever to do with babies and their mommas when I'm done, too! Tell us how it goes.

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