There is hope for New Grads

Being a new graduate nurse in the current economic climate is challenging to say the least. Recent graduates are finding it difficult to secure employment for numerous reasons, including the reluctance of more experienced nurses to retire. While awaiting the resolution of this issue, I sympathize with the frustration of new graduates who have worked hard to accomplish their goal of obtaining the clinical degree and licensure to begin their career.

Nursing school is no easy task; in fact at times it may have even seemed impossible. It is unfortunate that many recent graduates feel that their dedication and toil has been in vain. After graduating I sympathized with these same feelings.

I recently graduated from nursing school with optimism about quickly obtaining a job despite daunting reports of the difficulties recent graduates were having finding employment. To my dismay, I was in for a rude awakening.

Although I had heard about how difficult it was for new graduates to find employment, I had not yet experienced the phenomenon and wasn't convinced. However, with each passing post graduation day and after receiving a few rejection letters my optimism and confidence began to deteriorate.

Although I was happy for my classmates who obtained a job, it also made me feel pressured regarding my ability to become employed. I began to doubt my qualifications and decision to pursue a career in nursing.

Adding to the myriad of frustrations was the misconception by others that because of a nursing shortage I should have been able to find employment quickly. That notion may have been true if I were an experienced nurse; however, the features of the new graduate nurse are unique. We have a limited selection of job opportunities due to lack of experience and associated training costs.

The Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Passing the NCLEX along with the support of friends and family members gave my confidence a boost. Articles, like this one, helped me realize that I wasn't alone. My morale was at an all time low which led me to reach out to those I felt could impart encouragement and shared my feelings with them.

By doing so I was able to form a more practical perception of my situation and felt encouraged to make the most of my "down time". After assessing my options, I accepted my circumstances and eventually gained confidence. I began to cope with my situation in a more constructive manner once I elected to have a positive outlook.

I truly believe this made a difference in how I conquered applications and interviews. A few weeks of re-energized focus and I found myself employed as a nurse in a new graduate program.

Don't Give Up

Finding employment as a new graduate nurse is difficult, nevertheless prevailing tough times are only temporary. In the mean time, take this opportunity to enjoy life; before you know it you will be employed.

Surround yourself with positive influences.

We can be our toughest critics and naysayers. Choosing to adopt a positive perspective can help re-direct your energy from cynicism to success.

Be open-minded about your options and refuse to participate in augmenting the shortage of opportunities confronting us. If you received your associates' degree, I encourage you to continue your education to attain your bachelors' degree. With the current push for advancement in the education and practice of nurses nationwide this degree will be beneficial and make finding employment easier.

I congratulate you for having the courage to pursue your dreams and having successfully completed nursing school. Do not forget this is a tremendous accomplishment that you should continue to take pride in.