to be hired as an RN do I tell them I am in grad school?

[Grnrn]

It is probably a silly question.... I am in NP program right now and trying to get a part-time/per diem work as a hospital RN while in school. Do I mention in my resume that I am in grad school and announce it proudly at the interview, or better keep my mouth shut....

In recruiter's eyes it might look like I might desert them comes graduation day...

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

[KMFRN5]

Grnrn,

Good luck in your program! With regard to your question, it's all relative. If you're applying for a per diem/PT/PRN job, the employer will probably not care if you're in grad school. The reaction you get will also depend on how much RN experience you have. If you're young and a relatively new nurse, they might be a little harder on you--but again, it depends on the interviewer/nurse manager. I moved to a new city and found a PT job while in my NP program, too. It worked out well, but I wasn't broadcasting my grad student status. If someone asked why I was PT, I told them, but I didn't want to be labeled or hyper-criticized if I didn't do something perfectly.

In a nutshell, I think it's FINE to tell the interviewer. But be sure to test the (personality) waters before you jump in.

Good luck!

[mom2cka]

When interviewing, I was asked 'where do you see yourself in 5 years' and mentioned then that I'd be in grad school. I have discussed it with my director (well before I asked for a reference for school) and assured her that I plan to stay with them until I'm done with school. I also have been in touch with my HR office, to get an idea of what they'll want and be looking for when graduation time comes (4 years from now, I'm going rather PT); the recruiters want to know that, it helps them to plan. Most new grads don't stay at their first positions for very long, and employers are aware of that. But if you can assure them you won't be in and out and simply a drain on resources, it might be seen in a better light. Good luck!

[carachel2]

I agree with KMFRN. I would tell the recruiter you have some long-term goals for yourself that include grad school at some point but you don't have to be specific that you are in it now. In my opinion, being in school should fall almost in the same category as "are you going to have a baby anytime soon." It won't impact them so they shouldn't be allowed to even ask.

Also, other nurses sometimes get snippy when they learn you are in grad school. I would totally keep it on the low down for a long time unless you enjoy the workplace drama scene.

[Grnrn]

Thank you, friends!!!

This is a great forum!