Hardly a "new grad" anymore... this feels like a curse?

[Newgrad_STAT]

Hi everyone,

I graduated in June (2011) and was registered by late August.

I've applied to NUMEROUS upon NUMEROUS positions. (from casual to full-time)

I'm not at all picky as I just want to get my foot in the door.

I've only had one interview (September- it was for a nursing float pool position- didn't get it)

So since then I have been researching/applying/researching.

I have taken an ECG course and have my ACLS (hoping this would some how set me apart- Guess not )

I have an interview tomorrow with a seniors homecare company- Not sure what to expect. I do not currently own my own car (so I'm not 100% sure if that's a requirement- it was never mentioned ... so, who knows).

Months and months are flying by and I'm not hearing anything from even the "casual/on call positions"). I work with a career counselor and she has helped me out a bit- tweaked my resume etc.

I know it's a long process but WOW. I hear people getting call backs from the same positions I'm applying too... so what gives? (we have the same experience and everything... does it just come down to LUCK?)

I have asked old classmates if they have heard of any openings and they always say "Oh just keep checking the site" Funny how people are always around when THEY need something.

I feel like I've looked everywhere...I pray something turns up because this is utterly depressing.

I live in Ontario, Canada.

[MPKH, BSN, RN]

Rural places are always looking for nurses. They will train new grads.

If you are not picky at all, consider relocating to rural.

[Newgrad_STAT]

the "homecare" interview was something else... she didn't even ask me "do you have any questions for me?" :uhoh21:

I'm just trying to catch a break!

[FutureRN_NP]

I think it all depends who interviews you. They might not ask generic questions. For me, it was not really a typical 20/20 questions. It was rather do you have any future plans and why didn't you find a job after graduated (a year and half after).

[newnursejoan]

Hey which areas are you applying in? Perhaps you would have more luck if you start applying in areas such as mental health? Are you looking to apply in a specific field. I know specialties require more experience, but sometimes new graduates end up getting hired, so that they can mould you into the nurse they want!

[shortstuff_RN]

Where in Ontario do you live? I was in the same boat a few years ago. I realized the grim chance of landing a job in my city, so instead, I took the NCLEX and got my Michigan licence. Landed a fulltime job in medical/surg/tele. I work under a TN Visa and commute everyday to Detroit for work. Just something to consider.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

I moved last year from the GTA to Alberta. I work in a small rural facility in a charge role in LTC. Yeah, I know, people think LTC...bleh. It depends where you work. Our population is very acute, and we keep them when they're unstable, so I'm maintaining all of my acute care skills, and making a lot more money than I would anywhere in ON. Alberta pays better, and there are always positions in rural areas. I miss the city, but I was hired before I wrote my exam and moved immediately. I'll never regret it. You may have to move. The months you spend searching and waiting may mean experience somewhere else. My first year is up, and the loans are almost paid. Also, rural locations provide opportunities to learn additional skills. Something to consider.

[Newgrad_STAT]

I keep hearing the same thing about Alberta...!!! definitely something I'm going to seriously considering.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

You might start part time somewhere, but part time often equals full time hours because most places are short, especially the rural areas.

[MPKH, BSN, RN]

I also moved from a big metropolitan city for a full time job in rural Alberta. You can always work in rural place for a year or two, get the experience, and then try applying for city jobs. That's what a few of the grads at my work place did...and it is what I plan to do too.

[therapeutics]

I moved last year from the GTA to Alberta. I work in a small rural facility in a charge role in LTC. Yeah, I know, people think LTC...bleh. It depends where you work. Our population is very acute, and we keep them when they're unstable, so I'm maintaining all of my acute care skills, and making a lot more money than I would anywhere in ON. Alberta pays better, and there are always positions in rural areas. I miss the city, but I was hired before I wrote my exam and moved immediately. I'll never regret it. You may have to move. The months you spend searching and waiting may mean experience somewhere else. My first year is up, and the loans are almost paid. Also, rural locations provide opportunities to learn additional skills. Something to consider.

Hi Joanna73. Can I ask you how did you obtain your offer from an Alberta employer since you were in Ontario? Also, what are the steps to transfer the CNO registration to CARNA registration? I am seriously considering the Alberta relocation thing (of course with a sound job offer) but I need all the info before planning anything. I graduated with hon (RSU) in Oct '11, passed the CRNE exam (1st attempt) and I have acute care past nursing experience (surgery and anaesthesia) outside Canada. Of course, all these things do not count for any employers I've applied so far here in Toronto/Mississauga/Oakville/Brampton and this is my area limit because I do not drive...I am also concerned about my husband's potential job prospects once in Alberta. He is in buying for a major company; loves his job and is pretty well paid. I personally do not want to have a career that I am in love with and him to be unable to find something good or least attractive. All I could do, besides daily employment application and tons of crying, was to register in a NICU certification with a community college since my dream is to work with premature babies one day. I am sad and very disoriented. I do not even know if it is a good idea to start working with agencies since they do not provide any/much orientation because despite my prior past experience I feel I need orientation since here is another country, another healthcare environment per se and this is my first time to work here (if ever!!). Any advice/input is appreciated. Thanks.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

You can google Alberta Health Services and apply for positions through their website. Usually, the employer conducts a phone interview. Once you receive an offer, you will need to get a vulnerable sector check done and contact the CNO. The CNO will send your registration information directly to CARNA. It takes about 2 to 3 months for CARNA to process your AB license, which costs 520.00. That's it. I still renew my ON license, but I'm not planning to return. AB pays better....33.00 plus differentials. Can't beat that.