Getting into RN residency programs: what are they looking for?

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I just graduated with my AAS in nursing and passed NCLEX. My current aim is to go through a nurse residency program at a good hospital, but when I read about the residency programs they mostly say they require BSN. Also I see the statistics about how thousands apply for a few spots.

So, my question is, if I were to do everything in my power to get into a good residency program, what should I do? I'm assuming I will be going back to school get my BSN. Are there some top notch RN-BSN programs I should apply for? Are grades a big factor?

I already work as a home health aide, but of course it is not a hospital setting. Would they consider me more if I worked as a CNA in a hospital setting? Just looking to do whatever will get me into a residency program in a top-notch hospital.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

In my part of the country, those programs are filled very quickly with new grads who had clinical rotations in that facility. So, I guess the best way to gain entry would be to attend a school that has rotations in the host facility.

Other factors that are considered may include GPA, faculty recommendations, communication skills (many require a written essay as part of the application) & a "good reputation" in the departments where you did those rotations.

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Thanks for your comment. What part of the country are you in?

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Her screen name may mean Houston Texas ;)

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