I received my BSN May 2002 and my nursing career commenced this summer on a small community hospital peds unit ... I am on night shift and loathe it! I am constatly tired, emotional, etc... my body is confused! I've tried everything - black out curtains, melatonin, sleeping mask, .... and am still very unhappy working nights. The day shift RN's have it great on this small unit and are not going anywhere, therefore I do not foresee days anywhere in my future. I am applying to a larger institition - where I most likely will not start on days - but there will hopefully be greater prospects of day shift in my future. One position I'm applying for has the option of full night shift or rotating day/night shifts. For people, like myself, who can't stand night shifts is there more light found in rotating? Or is it just too hard on your body? And is night shift considered 'paying your dues' everywhere?? How long does this generally have to last for a new grad? I love my job but am miserable! Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.