Getting an RN job with BSN and high GPA in NJ?

[fieldnotesxx]

Hello everyone!

I realize that difficulty securing a job as a new grad is a universal problem across states/ nations, but I was just wondering if having a BSN and graduating with a high GPA/ NCLEX score helps at all when looking for a RN position in NJ.

Are there any resume extras that are looked upon favourably? Such as certain certifications? Does everybody come into the market with a previous nursing assistant type job?

Also, are you allowed to be licensed in both CA and NJ? Are there any states you cannot be simultaneously registered in?

Any info helps!

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

No one sees your nclex score. Very few jobs care more than if you graduated, have a license, perhaps have good references from clinical professors. Maybe a specialty preceptorship in their facility

Certifications other than BLS mean nothing without experience. New grads are not expected to be specialty trained or certified. Most facilities will provide training on the job if additional credentials such as ACLS, PALS are needed.

It varies whether a new grad worked as a CNA or nurse extern. Sometimes it helps, sometimes it means nothing.

Honing your brief resume and interview skills are more likely to get you noticed than a 4.0 GPA.

You can be licensed in more than one state. The more than one license applies if you live in a compact nurse licensing state. Neither NJ nor CA are compact states. CA has a 50%+ new grad nurse unemployment rate.

[Candogal]

The most important thing on the resume is CNA or other healthcare experience (volunteer at any hospital?). I only had one person comment on my high GPA (others might have noticed but never said anything) . Networking means everything!!!! Yes they do call your references. Don't be fussy, if you get an offer take it but only if you think you can stick it out for a year- you don't want to be seen as a job hopper. Do your homework on interviewing, the best advice I got from an awesome nurse recruitor was to sell yourself. Don't focus too much on trying to give the correct answers but rather tell your story that would make you a great nurse and co-worker- they want to get to know YOU!!! As a brief example: I was a nanny (good with children, developed parent's trust), then I was a realtor for many years (again demonstrating being a people-person and trust) then I went into how I perservered in school and gave examples on how I did not give up etc. The more you interview the more comfortable and confident you will feel.

[SuccessDiva]

No one cares about your GPA or your ability to pass NCLEX on the first try. Externship may be the way to go along with some unique ways of reaching out to managers. I been in your shoes and eventually found my way in. Message me if you want some extensive tips.