Cover letter question

Published

Hi everyone,

I'll be starting school this fall to pursue a nursing degree and I'd like to find a job in a hospital now in possibly an administrative role, or really anything to get my foot in the door. My question is...should I mention my plans of going to nursing school in my cover letter, or since I haven't even started just leave it off? I want them to know *why* I'm applying in the healthcare industry (especially because my previous work experience is not medical related, or in any medical environment), and not just randomly seeking employment just to find a job. Would it seem too presumptuous of me to mention that especially since I'm only applying for admin jobs? If anyone could offer any advice I'd really appreciate it!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I would think if you mention your pursing something other than the job you're applying for then they make think "oh great I'll have to just hire someone else in two years when this gal quits so I'll be training her for nothing and have to do it all over again" and not hire you.

I wouldn't mention anythink other than the desire for this job and why you're qualified for it now.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I would think if you mention your pursing something other than the job you're applying for then they make think "oh great I'll have to just hire someone else in two years when this gal quits so I'll be training her for nothing and have to do it all over again" and not hire you.

I wouldn't mention anythink other than the desire for this job and why you're qualified for it now.

Thanks a lot. This makes sense...it didn't even cross my mind.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

wanted to add that once you have your foot in the door then you make contacts and talk about school...not until you're working there and off any type of probation

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Okay, how about this...

I just noticed a job posting for a Patient Transporter, and it says that they prefer someone who is currently enrolled in a healthcare curriculum. I'm obviously not YET, but in this particular case should I mention my schooling plans?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think this job would be the exception so being forthright is a good thing here.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU.
Okay, how about this...

I just noticed a job posting for a Patient Transporter, and it says that they prefer someone who is currently enrolled in a healthcare curriculum. I'm obviously not YET, but in this particular case should I mention my schooling plans?

At my hospital, Transport has a lot of turnover, so I'm sure they would be fine with hiring a soon-to-be student, and if they hint at that in the job description - go on and tell them your aspirations. As for admin or clerical jobs, they take longer to train for and probably wouldn't be as excited about hiring someone that isn't as "in it for the long haul" - of course they can't legally ask you that in an interview or on an application, but telling them flat out in a cover letter isn't a great idea.

Also, Transport will likely be more flexible with hours and have more shifts available, especially if you want to go to part-time while in school or something.

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you both!

I just submitted my resume for that position, and I did mention my school plans, so I really hope it works out in my favor! It's nice to know that this position can be flexible (I'm leaving my current career as a flight attendant because of the inflexibility while pursuing an education...i.e., I have to be away from home so often). But I'm getting nervous because I've been applying to every hospital for many positions I feel I'm qualified for, but I'm not having any luck. I really don't care what job I get...heck, I'll even mop floors if it gets my foot in the door lol. :D

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU.

I wish you all sorts of good luck, MsPebbles!! Hospitals are terrible about not calling applicants back, it's so frustrating.

I started as a nurse aide, and my hospital has a paid-training program, so it was an awesome fit for me. No experience required, you just "owe" them 6 months of work to "pay back" your training. But I applied because I needed a job, so having a garaunteed job was not a problem at all! ;)

Being a nurse aide/nurse tech/CNA/PCT is really hard work, but it's great experience if you're wanting to pursue nursing, maybe there's something my program available in your area? Many require previous certification and experience, but some will train you from the ground up. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

juliaann,

You are so lucky to have a training program where you live. None of the hospitals in my area (SE Michigan) have such a program. They all require a license AND experience for nurse aides/CNAs. I considered getting CNA-certified, but considering the cost of the program and the fact that it still may not = a job, I decided against it.

So far I'm trying to remain optimistic in that I'll actually elicit a few interviews soon, and hopefully an actual job offer. I just keep reminding myself of this: when I got my current job a few years ago there were 13,000 applicants for 120 positions, and I got the job, so there is always hope. :D:D

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion