MN nursing career-easy or not?

[oompaloompaninja]

I'll be starting my 4th semester of nursing school this fall in New Mexico, but I'm really interested/determined to work in Minnesota after I graduate in May and pass my NCLEX. I've already researched the paperwork I need to make my NM license work in MN, but I just wanted to know how hard it is for a newly graduated student to get a job there. One of my aunts is a physician and she told me that I would probably have to work in LTC for a year before I could get my "in" into a hospital.

I work as a CNA in LTC right now, I started in November, and I'm studying before I apply to take the NCLEX-PN to become an LPN. If I'm able to pass and I continue to work in my current setting as an LPN, would that give me adequate experience to apply to most RN jobs in MN hospitals? I don't really know how all of this application stuff works so any advice or thoughts would be really appreciated. Thanks!

[Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN]

Google "new grad RN programs in Minnesota" -- several hospitals have them.

Are you looking to move to the metro, or any area in particular?

[oompaloompaninja]

What is an RN program? I'm looking to be anywhere in MN, but if I had a preference I'd like to be near the twin cities or St. Cloud areas since I have family there.

[Here.I.Stand, BSN, RN]

**New grad** RN program, sometimes called nurse residency program. It's designed to help new RNs transition from school to professional practice. :)

[AliNajaCat]

I'm a little confused. You're in school to prepare for the NCLEX for an RN license, or you're in a program preparing you for the NCLEX-PN to be an LPN? Few BoNs allow students in an RN program to take the LPN boards halfway through.

Either way, LPN work is not usually considered when you apply for RN work. A new grad RN is a new grad RN in terms of functioning in the RN role. LPN role won't help you there.

Find a place that will offer you a nurse residency/extended preceptorship process.