Canadian nursing grad thinking of heading to NY

[Near Done Nurse]

hey,

I'm from Canada and I'm thinking of heading down to the USA after graduation. I was just wondering if anybody could give me some info on what nursings like down there. It saddens me to say that I spoke to over 30 recruiters from different hospitals in Canada and only 1 could offer me fulltime work. The USA seemed to offer many fulltime positions and from I was told many hospitals have excellent orientation programs especially for new grads. What are the working conditions like, What is New York city like for cost of living and even just to live? What are the educational opportunities like down there? I would appreciate any information that anyone can offer cause this is a very big choice for me and its rather scary...

Thanks

[talldollNYC]

I moved to New York five years ago - from Minnesota. It was a bit of a culture shock for me, but I love it. Have you lived in a big city before? If so, you'll have no problem.

The cost of living is high, but salaries are high too. New grads start at over 50k a year, most hospitals! Depending on the neighborhood, one bedroom apartments range from $1000 to $3000+ per month. Check out craigslist.org for ideas of where to live. I personally would reccommend Washington Heights, Greenpoint, or Long Island City - low cost, safe neighborhoods, pretty quick commute. The public transportation here is great. I haven't had a car since I moved here. People are friendly. There are lots of great restaurants, bars, and clubs. What else do you want to know? Feel free to PM me if you have any specific questions.

Best of luck,

t

[talldollNYC]

Working conditions, orientation programs, tuition reimbursement, etc. varies. What area do you want to work in? Where do you want to live? Some hospitals list training and benefits plans on their websites. Do a google search on "NY hospitals" and get in contact with some nursing recruitment offices. They might offer you a job on the spot!

Hope that helps a little.

-t

[alik]

Hi,

Before you move to nyc, as some of the hospital about your TN visa. I am Canadian and working at Columbia press Hospital as Research assistant. Now I graduate from Nursing school and I am getting problem to get into because many hospital do not offer to get TN Visa.

Good Luck