Would taking on an ICU internship while in school be worth it?

[MontanaBerry]

My program offers internships around our hospital, two of which are ICU. These two spots are extremely competitive. The internship itself is cutthroat, you better know what you're doing, you gotta grow a thick skin, and still be on top of your school work. Some people don't make it through.

However, I hear about new grads leaving this internship and going straight to ICU. I'm interested in OR, flight nursing, or CRNA after a few years of experience. It would be tough, it would challenge me, I'll probably cry a lot, I would have to work my tail off to get it, and that's both intimidating and exciting.

Would it be worth it to come out of school and be able to go straight into an ICU? Or should I take my time, find a less crazy internship, and work my way up to ICU after I graduate?

Thanks in advance for your wisdom!

[Boomer MS, RN]

I am of the opinion that one should take advantage of opportunities that come his/her way. "No guts, not glory." "Nothing ventured, nothing gained." No one, however, but you can decide what choice to make. If you get accepted for the internship/externship, you will gain a valuable experience, whether you go immediately to an ICU or acquire another position. If your long term goals are flight nursing and/or CRNA, you will need ICU experience. In nursing there are many pathways to achieve your goals, often depending on the job market, your education and even some networking. Med-surg is also very challenging and not a waste of time as you navigate your journey. Good luck, and I hope it works out for you.