Going to Cali after one year experience...possible?

[hakunamatata, BSN, RN]

Hi all,

I was in the typical new grad dilemma of wanting to go to Cali for my first nursing job, but due to the economy, have taken a job in the Midwest (I was offered it before I even graduated - couldn't say no). I'm at a Top Ten Hospital (and Magnet) and on a general medicine floor where I see everything. Hoping this makes a difference on my resume?

I am happy here so far, but am planning on getting my 1 year experience and then hopefully heading out to CA as planned. My boyfriend lives in SF (in the city), although I really don't want to live in the city, or necessarily extremely close to it. I'd even be okay with going to LA.

I would love to hear if anyone got a year of experience and then successfully moved out to Cali - I keep feeling as though it's still going to be tough. I'm not too picky, but I'm at a Top Ten hospital right now and would really like to stay at a great hospital. Ideally, I'd love to be at UCDMC or another major medical center in Sacramento. Talked to Stanford and they did say to call back in a "year to 2 years" so I don't think I'm going to have much luck there.

Any help would be great, specifically stories of people that have or haven't had success.

[palmbeachRN]

I started talking to a travel agency right around my one year mark, and they said 12-18 months was good enough.. I think it depends on the hospital. I know that some will hire first time travelers. Call around to different recruiters and see what they have to say!

[hakunamatata, BSN, RN]

Thanks palmbeach - I have looked into the travel thing, but I am specifically talking about securing a job at a hospital, not traveling. Thanks for your help though - this may be a good option for me! :)