Canadian RN Student thinking of moving to Austin after graduation

[abcdefghijKIRA]

Hey everyone!

My name is Kira and I am going into my 4th year of a BScN program in Ontario. I am very interested in working in emerg and I've been seriously considering moving to Austin after I graduate. I've been trying to do all the research I can, so I'm hoping some of you might be able to help me out!

So I know that there are 2 hosptial companies in Austin; Seton and St. Davids. I've gotten the feeling from past posts about the two that Seton has a few more advantages. I'd love to hear more about that from people who have had experiences with the two. I have a bunch of specific questions too... so if anyone can answer them, that would be awesome! These are regarding both hospital companies.

Are there any sign on bonuses?

Do they offer a loan repayment plan (for my school debts)?

Would they offer any kind of housing assistance (for a poor Canadian girl)?

What are the normal contract lengths?

What kind of wage/salary do they offer? (I have heard for new grads it ranges from 22 to 25 an hour)

What is the payscale like? How often does it increase?

What about things like holidays, vacation time, overtime and pay differentials?

What are the benefits like?

Are there any extra benefits offered like gym memberships (for an example)?

What are the shifts like (8's, 10's or 12 hour days)?

How many of these shifts approximately per week?

What about breaks while on the job? How often? How long?

Is this full time or part time? Or is there more full time or part time opportunities?

What is the new grad/new employee orientation like?

Do they offer assistence when I want to further my education?

How long it Maternaty leave? (Well thats thinking way ahead, but I'm curious! And would your benefits cover a midwife?)

Also, if anyone has tips about the Austin area and good areas to live, that would also be fantastic as I have never been to Austin so I have no idea what neighbourhoods are good or bad. Thanks sooo much everyone!

Kira