job search

I am not sure how the job market is where you are.

I had my job before I graduated, but I didn't start until after I had taken and passed the NCLEX.

I think that it depends on the job market in your area. If, for example, there were a lot of December/January grads who applied early, then it could be a little bit tougher. I myself will graduate on Feburary 13th, and I secured my job a few weeks ago. I will begin on March 26th as a Graduate Nurse and will have until May to take NCLEX, though I plan on taking it asap. My advice would be to call HR or nursing recruitment at hospitals you are interested in working at and ask them what they recomend that you do. Some hospitals don't want to interview you until you graduate/pass boards, others will hire you as a GN. Maybe just start doing some research and look into your options while you are studying for boards, so that when you pass(and i'm sure you will!) you already have all your 'ducks in a row' so to speak and can easily proceed from there. One thing I will say though is that having a job already lined up can be a HUGE stress relief. It is for me anyway. Good luck!!