Current ADN student

I am really worried too. However, I am in a different situation because I haven't actually started a program. I am trying to decide which route I should go... ADN at a CC or ABSN at Duke. It is such a huge financial difference, but I can be done so much more quickly if I go the ABSN route. I am getting so confused because it is time to make a decision and apply to Duke. I worry that if I go and get my ADN, I will have a hard time finding a job when I am up against BSNs, but the debt just really worries me! I wish some recent ADN nurses would share their experiences!

Second career ADN here! I graduated about 2.5 yrs ago with no debt- cost of my CC program was around 10k.

Never had a problem getting a job. I have spent a couple of yrs in outpt procedural areas. Love it!! I will be starting at a VA med ctr in October.

What worked for me was avoiding the big medical systems....at first. I applied to small facilities that didn't have a huge HR machine. It seems like smaller places without an actual HR dept take more time to really review your resume and cover letter. Do not underestimate the value of a killer cover letter! It is a much more personal hiring process in small facilities.

After I had a couple of years under my belt I applied to the VA on a whim. One application, one interview and one decent job offer! All with an ADN in a very saturated metro area market that has a medical school and associated nursing school in addition to a multitude of other programs.

I truly believe that success in landing that first nursing job that will launch your career is getting face to face with the powers that be and selling yourself! Be personable and smart and funny. Talk about how well you will treat the pts and how well you will represent the company. Be the RN that others want to work with. Once you have that first job it is much easier!

Good luck!

I have an ADN. No problems getting a job, nor has anyone else from my graduating class (save for maybe 3 people), likewise with the classes before us. In my area (GA) all the major hospitals offer residency/internship programs which are the best bet for ANY new grad (ADN or BSN).

I have a BS and ADN graduated in April. Received license in June. Have had 4 interviews for hospital positions 2 critical care 1 med surg 1 telemetry/med surg. Now deciding between 2 VA hospital positions at separate locations that I have been offered