Published May 12, 2010
Sarahlynn
5 Posts
So I just got pinned last week and I don't actually walk until May 28th. I still havent recieved my ATT from the BRN. I've taken a Hurst review course and will take another one next month (only other time its offered). I plan to take my NCLEX in July when I do get my ATT.
Right now I've been working on my resume and collecting letters of reccomendation. I still need a few more personal references. I have 2 and have been trying to wrack my brain for teachers I am close with that would vouch for me.
I'm having a really hard time finding new grad programs in the bay area. I really do not want to have to travel outside of the area away from my fiance who just got a job in Cupertino. I'm willing to drive up to an hour away but not much farther.
Does anyone have ideas? I've found Lucile Packard and Stanford new grad programs (cant apply yet, still waiting for letters) Where else can I apply??? HELP!!
NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN
2,387 Posts
There are many more new grads than new grad programs in the bay area.
I would use anyone you may know who works as a nurse to attempt to help you land a job.
I went to nursing school in the bay area for an LVN to RN program. Most of the LVN's worked at hospitals for many years. Their hospitals could not even hire them back for the most part because there just wasn't any jobs. Some of them were able to get per diem. Others had to find home health. Some found no work at all....and still are looking over a year later.
If you go to the California forum you can see how many nurses in the bay area are desperate for jobs.
Not trying to discourage you, just letting you know that you need to hit the job search really HARD.
Use any and all resources.
lala_rn09
18 Posts
its not easy out there, im in the bay area and it took me 11 months post grad to find a job here and im still only working part time in an outpatient surgery center. remember that any experience is better than no experience, i was trying SNF's and everything else under the sun that would allow me to use my license, i love my job actually but it still isnt inpatient experience... good luck!
i feel like i should start looking for a good volunteer opportunity or something to keep me busy. I almost feel like i chose the wrong vocation.
stargurl2006
119 Posts
Any vocation is the wrong vocation right now. New grads in almost every field are feeling the same hurt. Good luck & Congrats!
madwife2002, BSN, RN
26 Articles; 4,777 Posts
Moved to Grad forum
volunteering is being highly recommended if you cant find a job.. im sure you didnt pick the wrong vocation if you loved nursing its well worth the wait :0)
PinkPickle
61 Posts
Volunteering will boost your resume if you can say you are using your nursing skills. Even if it's taking BP q1wk for 2-4hrs. And while you have extra time finally, take some extra certifications classes like (ACLS, PALS, NRP, etc.) Those also help. Also, be prepared that in this competition you will most likely not get looked at until you pass the NLCEX, so focus on that and don't get discouraged if you apply and get rejection letters. Even after everything is done, you may still go months and months before even getting interviews. Good luck!
to Hopefulnewgrad RN: you have NO idea how much better you made me feel with what you said. I dont feel as paniced. I was mostly worried about money and about losing my skills. I will concentrate on NCLEX. (still havent gotten my ATT) and getting letters of recommendation/references. im going to look for BP screening volunteer opportunites. or maybe even coordinate with nurses at my church and my fellow students in the area. THANKS!!
I'm so glad I could help! Good luck studying. And yes while you go through the difficult process of job hunting work on the volunteering and other stuff I mentioned. It'll help "distract" you and show employers that you are just sitting and waiting; you are at least trying to maintain your skills. God bless!