Desperate in DFW

[mom35]

Hi all, I graduated in May and passed nclex in June. Been applying like mad ever since for intern, resident, and rn I positions everywhere in DFW. I put in over 50 apps. to Parkland, over 60 to HCA, at least 30 to Methodist, and I have only had one interview which was for UTSW tele. internship-I was not hired though:uhoh3:. Baylor, which I have lost count of how many apps. I have submitted, has rejected me each time via email. I dont know what to do. When I call the hospitals to follow up they say I just have to wait to be contacted if they wish to interview me. I forgot to mention that I have applied at the va as well. From what the HR's are telling me, one must submit app online and they do not want anyone coming in and giving hard copies -just wait to be contacted. What else can I do? I also have applied to LTC's too. I just thought that it was going to be easier than this. Any advice?

[Sanuk]

I know this doesn't help you, but I wish schools would let students know they need to start applying in March before they graduate. Hospitals are notoriously slow in the HR department, and waiting until you graduate or pass the boards pretty much guarantees you will be too late for any sort of internship program. I started applying in early March and wasn't contacted until late May for an internship that started early June!

That said, what about THR system? Or a free-standing clinic type environment, doctor's office? I wish I could help you more. What area are you looking for?

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Any advice?

1. The LTAC hospitals (Kindred, Lifecare, Vibra, Ethicus) might be more open to hiring new grads since you have missed the boat on the summer internships at the major hospitals.

2. The acute rehabilitation hospitals (Global, Reliant, Healthsouth, Triumph) might also be more open to hiring new grads who have missed out on the major hospital internships.

3. The outlying country hospitals (Texoma Medical Center, Wise Regional, Weatherford Regional, Palo Pinto General) are often willing to train a new nurse, although you would have to commute.

4. Walk into every nursing home within a 50 mile radius of your home while dressed nicely. Ask to complete an application during business hours. This might result in an on-the spot job interview.

[angelrain820]

I feel your pain. I applied to a few hundred positions as well. Shot down by HCA and no word on the others. All this with a BSN, 4.0, LOR's, volunteer experience, membership in professional organizations, the works. I was feeling pretty down until I received a call back from Healthsouth. Interviewed and was offered the position, thank goodness. (Also interviewed with Parkland last week, but have not heard back). Definitely take Commuter's advice. Yeah it's not the hospital, but it is a job and experience. And Healthsouth pays more than the hospital new grad positions. Good luck.

[mom35]

Thanks for the replies guys! If I had a car I would definitely commute, but I live in Irving and take the TRE (train) and then the small trains and buses in dallas. Parkland is the place I dream of working. I did three clinicals there and I learned so much. But at this point I will work anywhere, I know I need experience. I did apply for some internships at Methodist that start in Sept. but no call back yet. I call them twice per week to see if they are still interviewing for those internships in Sept. and as of Friday they were. THR (presby) said they will list internships in September and JPS will list in November. Again, thanks for replying, I appreciate any input!