Medical Unit Clerk Position at County Jail for a Nursing Student

[cassandr4]

Hello,

Just a little background information about me: I am 21 years old and about to start my 1st semester of nursing school at the end of the month (3 year program to earn my BSN). Throughout my high school and community college education (nursing pre-reqs), I have had jobs mostly in retail and food service. I have spent almost 2 years volunteering at my local hospital in order to gain some experience of what the hospital will be like as a work environment but I would really like paid work experience - work that is both relevant to my career path and will assist with tuition/living expenses during my nursing education.

Recently, I have been offered a position at the county's main jail as a medical unit clerk for adult custody mental health. I had initially hoped I would be hired at the county hospital, but I have interviewed there several times and have never been hired. It is super competitive to work for the county and unfortunately I am rather inexperienced. I have long wanted to work for the county as they offer VERY good pay and I can gain some relevant experience in the healthcare field.

I am currently facing a lot of worry and judgement from my parents about taking a job at the jail. Though I am still learning more information about the position, I believe my contact with inmates will be limited. In addition, my parents worry about me not focusing on school enough. I have worked very hard to finally get into nursing school and have kept my grades high with work responsibilities before. This position will be part time and my main focus will still be my education of course.

I would just really like any insight/information you guys may have on this situation. Ideas or knowledge on working in a correctional facility, whether or not this will be valuable experience for me as a future nurse, or what you think about my parent's concerns! I would really love to gain healthcare experience, build my resume, and earn money to help pay for school..

thanks so much for your help!