Foreign grad, passed the nclex last month, still no job

Nurses General Nursing

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Hi, I am just so frustrated right now. Im a foreign grad and passed the nclex last month. Ive already applied and sent out so many resumes to hospitals and LTC facilities. Im here in Philly right now. I actually had an interview in a nursing home last week but as soon as she found out I dont have that much experience, she didnt ask me further. (i only had experience as a CNA in LTC before) I also am licensed in CA and endorsed here in PA. Does someone know of anyone hiring new nurses? i am very willing to relocate if thats the case. I am so losing hope. I actually even enrolled myself in a RN refresher course here in Villanova University just to prove them that I am doing anything to keep current with whats latest. Pls help!!

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The job market is very tough, many nurses make connections in nursing school since your education was outside the US you don't have that experience.

How long have you been out of nursing ? A refresher course would help if it has been longer than 3 years. Just keep applying and good luck.

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May I ask what kind of work visa you're here on and when you got it? I sympathise with your struggles, but when so many American nurses are finding it impossible to find a job, I do not understand why the US is issuing new work visas to foreign nurses.

This really isn't intended to start a debate on foreign nurses, just a simple request for information.

PS I realized now you may be a US citizen or permanent resident even though you are a foreign grad - would you let us know the details? Thanks.

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The job market is very tough, many nurses make connections in nursing school since your education was outside the US you don't have that experience.

How long have you been out of nursing ? A refresher course would help if it has been longer than 3 years. Just keep applying and good luck.

I've been out of practice for almost 2 years. Yes you're right, you've got to have some connections so that you can land a job with all the hire freeze out there. All I can do now is look for a job. Thanks!

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May I ask what kind of work visa you're here on and when you got it? I sympathise with your struggles, but when so many American nurses are finding it impossible to find a job, I do not understand why the US is issuing new work visas to foreign nurses.

This really isn't intended to start a debate on foreign nurses, just a simple request for information.

PS I realized now you may be a US citizen or permanent resident even though you are a foreign grad - would you let us know the details? Thanks.

Hello, I graduated from the Philippines and I moved here last year with my siblings. I was petitioned by my parents, so I am a permanent resident here. From what I know, they've stopped giving visas, since there's this retrogression.

I am so lost now, I really need a job so I can help here around the house. This sucks. :(

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Unfortunately, at this point, with the economy in this condition, a month (of unsuccessful job-hunting) is nothing. There are plenty of posts on this site from new grads who have been looking for six months, nine months, a year and haven't found a job. Also, if you've been out of clinical practice for a couple years, you're not going to be a v. attractive candidate (and, if you've only worked as a CNA, that doesn't count as nursing experience). The refresher course is a great idea -- not only will it get you "up to speed" on US nursing practice and expectations, you may also make some connections through the course that may help lead to a job.

Best wishes!

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Specializes in Addictions, Acute Psychiatry.

Local grads can't even find jobs; foreign grads I'd think would be in worse shape.

I'm not a new grad and am looking in PA and having better luck than the DC/Baltimroe area (yes, I'll move for a job). Have you considered applying as far as 3 hours away and moving?

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LTC you would have a better chance applying in person. Your family waited a long time to come to the USA and now it is your home. It may take several months to find a job, treat job hunting like a job, spend 40 hours a week job hunting.

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Unfortunately, at this point, with the economy in this condition, a month (of unsuccessful job-hunting) is nothing. There are plenty of posts on this site from new grads who have been looking for six months, nine months, a year and haven't found a job. Also, if you've been out of clinical practice for a couple years, you're not going to be a v. attractive candidate (and, if you've only worked as a CNA, that doesn't count as nursing experience). The refresher course is a great idea -- not only will it get you "up to speed" on US nursing practice and expectations, you may also make some connections through the course that may help lead to a job.

Best wishes!

Thank you! Thats why I am doing this course, even if it costs a fortune. Still have a long way to go with this job hunting thing. ill keep u posted! :)

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Local grads can't even find jobs; foreign grads I'd think would be in worse shape.

I'm not a new grad and am looking in PA and having better luck than the DC/Baltimroe area (yes, I'll move for a job). Have you considered applying as far as 3 hours away and moving?

Yes, I've applied anywhere, even if its means that I have to move. Good luck also with job hunting. Hopefully, we'd get one soon.

keep the faith!

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LTC you would have a better chance applying in person. Your family waited a long time to come to the USA and now it is your home. It may take several months to find a job, treat job hunting like a job, spend 40 hours a week job hunting.

Thanks for the advice! That's what I've been doing. :)

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