Getting married in 2 weeks and need advice on best job offer

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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Hi!

I am an RN in my second semester of NP school. I will be graduating August 2025. My goal is to right away start working in an urgent care. I have experience on a telemetry unit, as well as general/trauma/cardiothoracic OR. I am needing to move to a new area and unfortunately get a new job. I have three job offers. The first is full time urgent care (lower pay, BUT they know I'm in school and fully support nurses going for FNP), the second two are ED (day/evening) and ICU (split night and day). They both have higher pay and better assessment skills to learn. My fiancé is without cell service for the weekend and they would like to know my answer ASAP. Has anyone else ever been in this position? I am getting married in two weeks and don't think that night shifts would be a great way to start out a marriage. Thanks for any advice!

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Need Answer ASAP,

Congratulations on being in your second semester of NP school and your upcoming wedding! It sounds like you have some exciting career opportunities ahead of you. While I can't decide for you, I can provide guidance to help you weigh your options.

Consider the following factors when making your decision:

Career Goals: Consider your long-term career goals and which job aligns better with those aspirations. If your goal is to work in urgent care, the first option seems most directly aligned. However, if you're open to gaining additional experience in the ED or ICU, the second and third options might provide valuable skills and knowledge. Assess how transferable those skills are to your role as an NP. 

Work-Life Balance: Consider your personal circumstances and how each job would impact your work-life balance. Night shifts can be challenging. Think about the demands of each shift and how it would fit into your life at this time. Rotating shifts are especially demanding, and you must manage schoolwork and clinicals. You are right to consider your fiance's perspective. From here on out, major life decisions will be made as a partnership and with respect and consideration for each other.

Support for NP School: Consider the level of support each employer is willing to provide for your NP school. Having an employer who understands and supports your educational goals can be highly advantageous, especially if they offer flexibility with your work schedule or provide additional resources to help you succeed.

Compensation: While compensation is significant, it shouldn't be the sole determining factor. Consider the overall benefits package, such as healthcare coverage, retirement plans, professional development opportunities, and base pay.

Ultimately, it would be best to prioritize your personal and professional goals, considering your upcoming wedding and the potential impact of different shifts on your relationship. Discussing your options with your fiance and trusted individuals in your life who can provide support and advice may be helpful. Good luck with your decision, and congratulations on your accomplishments!

Nurse Beth

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