I would like to specialize in pediatric oncology nursing

[natalie29]

I am currently a nursing student and will be starting my core nursing classes in two weeks. I would like to specialize in pediatric oncology and any help or advice to get there would be great. Is there anything I can do so I have a better chance of getting even an oncology job after I graduate? I feel I am in the middle of my class so my grades are average, compared to everyone else.

I was even thinking of working as a CNA while I am in school if I can handle it. Has anyone done this before?

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

Try to do the following:

1. Work as an aide on a pediatric oncology floor while in school, if you can find a job. This will greatly increase your chances of getting a job there once you graduate.

2. Get your senior preceptorship on a pediatric oncology floor. Note that it may not be possible to do both 1 & 2 if there aren't multiple pediatric oncology floors in your area. My school did not allow students to complete preceptorship at a hospital they had been employed at. If you live somewhere that has multiple pediatric hospitals or you do not live where you go to school, you can do both.

3. Volunteer at programs that serve children with cancer. There are camps all over the country for kids with cancer, I've been doing that since I was a sophomore in college. You could also volunteer for something like Make-A-Wish.

[natalie29]

Thank you so much! This is very helpful. I will look into Make-A-Wish and other such programs right now. That thought didn't even cross my mind. I had looked into volunteering for hospitals but they require minimum hours per week and I don't know what my schedule will always be like. Thanks again!