Army Nurse Corps for New Grad RN

[nikonRN]

I've been a long-time visitor of this website, reading many different threads related to the nursing field, but I only just now registered. This will be my first post.

I'm a new grad RN (I have my license..also BSN, ACLS, BLS, EMT) in the SF Bay Area in California. The job market around here for new grad RNs right now is terrible. I did my preceptorship in an ER, but they can't hire me because they're on a freeze. I've been looking and applying elsewhere in CA, but it seems like everywhere has been hit by this economic mess. I'm still looking and sending out applications.

Very recently, I began looking into the Army Nurse Corps. I've been reading up as much as I can about it. The Loan Forgiveness Program really piqued my interest. $120,000 loan repayment for 3 years active duty? Awesome! I'm considering being an active duty RN in the ANC for 3 years. I'd be interested in the Critical Care specialty track, which would take me to either Madigan, Ft Sam Houston, Ft Bliss, or Walter Reed after OBLC. But I understand the specialty training begins after the 1 year RN residency. Of those 4 Med Centers, I think I'd be most interested in Madigan, up in Tacoma, WA.

It's a serious commitment and I'm not taking it lightly. I'm trying to weigh all the pros and cons of going down this road. I've already spoken with a Health Care Recruiter over the phone and am meeting with him on Thursday.

I would like to get all your thoughts and opinions about being an active duty RN in the ANC. If you have new grad ANC experiences, please feel free to share. I'm not one to make rash decisions, so every bit of info helps.

Thank you.

[olderthandirt2]

Do a quick search on new grad military nursing on allnurses.com..........there is ALOT of information......

good luck,

c.

[just_cause, BSN, RN]

Tons of info here... I'd say most people here are fans of the service soooo if you have specific questions they might be able to answer - otherwise the tone is positive - and recommendation would be to join :)

[pelesoccer10]

Hi there. It sounds like we are in very similar situations. I will be graduating from nursing school in June in north Florida. There is a hiring freeze over the entire state of Fl. I too am interested in heading to Madigan, and planning on the ICU track. Your best bet is going to be hooking up with your recruiter. I did a lot of research on the military and nursing because I was torn between the army and af. My recruiting experience is easier and smooth because I really took the time to educate myself. My application goes before the board in a month. Best of luck to you and hopefully I will see you at OBLC or at Madigan.

[Honeydew86]

Hi, my application is being submitted for the boards on March 10th... and I too selected Madigan as my choice of base. I'm from Philadelphia and there is a hiring freeze here as well. My main reason to join the ANC is for the experience and skills. I'm very excited to know whether or not I will get accepted but also scared at the same time because I don't know what's ahead of me. So, to say, I'm having cold feet but I still want to do it. Life's about taking risks and furthering yourself right?! So, I will see you in OBLC or Madigan nikonRN and pelesoccer10!

[spawnupe]

Hey Honeydew, you are absolutely right about the hiring freezes here in Philadelphia.I did an extern at University Of Penn and thought that I would be able to get a job directly after I graduate. But at the present, SUCH IS NOT THE CASE!! Are you working with a SGT. Lawrence? He is good. My experiences with him have been positive. Good louck with the boards on March 10th. Take care and remain positive. Remember, YES WE CAN!!

[Honeydew86]

Hi spawnupe,

I agree, Sgt Lawrence is very good. However, due to his leaving to Ft Lewis, I am being followed up by the new female recruiter Sgt Ledford whom is also very good. Thank you, and I will let you know how that turns out.

[Chiboy162]

Anyone want to share any updated information?