becoming a nurse/finding a job?

[Hannah_1]

Hi everyone, I am a 21 year old mom of two small kids. I recently went back to school and upgraded a bunch of high school credits. Applied to Many programs as I am unsure of what i want to study. I've always loved nursing, and was under the impression that it was a guaranteed career. I've been researching like craZy and it seems that ALOT of people are having trouble finding a job as a new grad. The program I got accepted to was an RN program at ryerson. If it's that tough to get a job in Toronto, on then I can't justify taking out student loans and dedicating 4 years to struggle later on. Because I have a husband and children I have to try to think practical when it comes to choosing a degree. Any nurses in ontario with advice for me? If nursing is so hard to get a job in why is it always the number one recommendations when you Google hottest jobs in Canada! I applied to other programs like accounting, business management, life sciences , social work but I'm so unsure now. What careers are hot now in Canada? Please help.

Thanks

[vintage_RN, BSN, RN]

I can only speak from my experience. I've seen the posts on here from people who say they've been searching for jobs for months. Personally, both when I became an RPN and RN, no one in my graduating classes had problems getting jobs that I know of. I finished my RN in December and most of my group has jobs already. You need to stand out and make yourself known. Many people get jobs from their final consolodation placements...the manager probably isn't going to approach you though. If you take initiative and make yourself known to the right people, then I honestly don't see that you would have a problem. I live in the GTA too, which I hear is a saturated market.

[dishes, BSN, RN]

Nursing is a career that has surplus and shortage cycles, it's currently in a surplus cycle, at some point it will work towards a shortage cycle. Recognizing that you will be graduating in a surplus cycle can be a motivator to help you make plans to ensure your resume will stand out from the other new grads, once you graduate and become registered. Volunteer in a healthcare (start now), join RNAO during your first year of school, after your first year of school try to find part time work as a health care aide, network with nurses and managers through involvement with RNAO and through work experience. Networking can lead to job opportunities and references.

[Isakolistic]

It's really all relative to your area, but there are always nursing jobs; they just might not be the nursing jobs that you want. In my area, hospital jobs are more coveted but harder to come by. It seems like there are always LTC or home health agencies that are looking for nurses, but many nurses have no desire to work there; however, everyone needs to start somewhere. I find that when new grads tell me there are no jobs, what they really mean is there are no desirable jobs for them.

[madricka, BSN, RN]

I graduated from Rye & had a job lined up before I graduated. I can't think of anyone in my class who didn't. While in school I did a LOT of networking and tried hard to always make a good impression. In my clinical placements I got to know the staff and managers and made sure they knew me -- not in a kiss up kind of way but I asked a lot of questions, thanked them for their time, said good morning to everyone, etc. This seems like common sense but you'd be surprised at how many people come in, barely talk to anyone, hide in the nursing station, steal chairs from the nurses (for reals, don't ever do this!), and basically interact as little as possible. I applied for a job in the unit I consolidated on in my 4th year -- they were happy to have me because they already knew me, were familiar with my work ethic, etc. If I didn't get into that unit (bc no openings or whatever) I'm sure getting in at that hospital on another floor would not have been a problem.

I also participated in as many non-class things as I could (within reason, I was working and stuff & I know time is always an issue). I went to a ton of free healthcare/professional seminars, conferences, RNAO events, etc. My area of focus at the time was oncology so I attended events that focused on oncology, special populations, end of life care, etc. Even online webinars count and you can add that to your CV. I wouldn't bother with taking IV or phlebotomy classes, those count far less than being involved and networking (plus it's a huge waste of money because your facility will teach you all these things after you are hired).

Grades are important. Attending class is important. You can't coast and think you'll cram for the NCLEX, it doesn't work that way. It's a VERY heavy commitment, something to consider if you have small children. You will need a lot of support because there will be days that you want to throw it all out the window and quit. You need cheerleaders in your life & people that can help you when you are struggling. A LOT of people quit after first year or partway into the second year. It's not easy -- but it is definitely worth it! I have zero regrets whatsoever.

Bottom line: Make yourself as competitive as possible.