Help with application process desperately needed!

[Mbraner]

Hey everyone!

I'm new to the site and am desperately seeking help from new grads and experienced nurses alike. I am a nursing student who will be graduating in may '10. I've been told that i need to start applying for jobs over this winter break, but have received no other guidance from faculty. I feel very ill-equipped for the application process and have a few questions:

As a student who will graduate next May...

-can i apply to positions that are open now?

-to positions that say RN2 or 1 year experience required?

-to positions that require licensure before i have my license?

-should i send my resume to different hospitals so that they have it on file at least? and who would i send it to (HR? recruiter?...)?

-should i call nurse recruiters at hospitals to see what is available and what kinds of things should i ask?

I have experience as an nurse extern and a clin tech, but i know that during these times that will only help me so much. If anyone has answers to these questions or any advice overall i would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks so much!

[prinsessa]

I wouldn't apply to jobs that say experience required. I think that just makes some nurse recruiters mad. You could apply for positions that say license required but in some states you won't be able to work until you have a license. You could try to call nurse recruiters but from my experience they don't answer their phones or return calls. Some hospital website will list the recruiters name and email address. You could send them an email with your resume and cover letter explaining when you will graduate. Good luck with your job search! I wish I would have started applying earlier. Most hospitals said to start applying in April which is what I did. Now here I am 7 months later still looking for jobs!