Graduate nurse programs?

[alyced21]

Hi, I'm a 2nd year nursing student at griffith uni in brisbane, and I'm wondering how difficult is it really to get into a graduate nurse program? There seems to be a lot of talk around that graduate nurses are finding it difficult to get jobs straight out of uni, and this seems to be Australia wide. It seems really unfair if this is in fact the case, as they've encouraged a lot of students to study nursing because there's a nursing shortage but they're supposedly not being hired? When I went on my 1st placement there were a number of new graduates (1-2 yrs out), and one from the university I go to. So they hadn't had a problem finding a job, but it was oncology so perhaps they had gotten into a GNP. The qld health website has info about graduate nurse recruitment, saying that there's a couple of intakes during the year, and you can apply before you graduate. Is there anything to help me get into one, or is it just a matter of luck? Is it really impossible to get a job as a graduate without getting into a graduate nurse program?

I'm also wondering if working as an AIN, or in some sort of health related job, will help me in securing employment when I graduate. Currently I'm just a full time student without any sort of job, but I was thinking of getting work as an AIN possibly next semester, or this semester if I see anything. I'm thinking that it might be good to help me stay in practice and gain some extra experience during the times when I'm not on placement, but will it also help me to get a job when I graduate? I find it hard to study full time and work at the same time, but if it's going to be beneficial to me I'll do it.

[ceridwyn]

Having assistant experience would help. I don't know too much about Queensland grad positions, but here in Victoria there were still positions in some of the regional hospitals after all the selections had taken place. Apply for all of them, even if you think its too far from home, private, public and with interviews, does your uni have mock interviews with real employers, this I can remember was a help...I am sure that you will find a new grad position, whether it is on an official program or a hospital that gives support with mentors etc.

[alyced21]

Hi, sorry I'm a couple of days replying. Thanks that helps a bit :). Yeah, our uni offers seminars where we can get advice about how to apply for graduate jobs, interviews, not sure about mock interviews with real employers but there probably is something like it. Anyway I still have 2 yrs to go, but the time seems to be going very fast! I guess if I just prepare myself in advance and apply everywhere I should be fine. Thanks :)