Decisions, decisions..

[Kedeep91]

I am a soon-to-be new grad (BSN) and I'm so nervous about my job options. I haven't applied anywhere yet and in unsure about where to work. I know many people say a job in med/surg is best for a new grad and that's currently where I am in my 5th level (post-op). I think I would like to work L&D or Neonatal ICU but scared I would be unprepared due to limited exposure (only a couple clinical days). Any advice?

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Depending on the job market in your area, you may find you just have to apply for what is offered. Some facilities will also have policies that they don't accept new grads into certain specialties. Others may offer new grad residencies.

If you truly want to work L&D or NICU, are you prepared to wait for a job to be offered? Limiting yourself to one or two specialties may mean a job hunt of a up to or even more than a year.

It comes down to what you're prepared to do to get a job in your preferred specialty and the job market in your area.