Best time to apply for externship?

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Specializes in CTICU/CVICU.

When is the best time to apply for an externship for next summer? I'm in a 2 yr. diploma program and will be a senior next fall. I want to participate in an externship next summer..but I don't want to apply too late..or too early.

So, when is the best time? If it's before December, is it ok to apply and then hold off on sending your transcripts until after they are posted?

Where are the best externships? Of course, I'm going to apply to Morristown and Overlook (who isn't??:chuckle) but I will also be applying to Mountainside Hospital (since I have a job there as a nursing assistant) and I'm intersted in St. Barnabas..Beth Israel in Newark...UMDNJ..Hackensack..Somerset Medical..and probably every other hospital in the northern part of NJ!

Thanks for all of your input!

M

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Specializes in Medical ICU, Orthopedics.

I think it's a good idea that you're applying to a lot of hospitals. Many have cut back their externship programs because of budget- so having a lot of options to choose from is a good idea. I would start looking and in January. Some applications are due in February. Most hospitals have the info listed on their websites. If not- keep checking back.

I started applying to many hospitals in February, didn't hear back until April and ended up finally securing an externship in late May. So don't get discouraged!

I added a document that was really helpful to me in my search- I found it on the internet last year. It has dates and websites, etc. Hope you find it helpful as well!

Good luck ?

externships.pdf

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Specializes in CTICU/CVICU.

Thanks so much for the info!!! I'll definitely keep you posted! :)

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Specializes in Emergency.

Start filling out your paperwork in December so you can submit the 1st week of January. There will be a lot of competition so get your stuff in early. Also, if there's a floor you like during clinicals, talk to the manager about getting one of the externship slots.

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Specializes in CTICU/CVICU.

Hi emtbrn..I'm actually thinking about starting to fill out my paperwork in November..you don't think that's too early, do you? That way..everything will be sent in by December.

I work on the telemetry floor at Mountainside Hospital as a nursing assistant, but my manager is over the MICU, SICU and CICU..and I would love to have an internship in one of the ICU's. I will DEFINITELY be speaking with her about it. My clinicals are at Mountainside too..not really into the floor I'm doing my clinicals on..

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