Published Feb 6, 2014
GaylordFockerMurse
2 Posts
Just a little background on myself:
Graduated in 2012 with a BSN from one of the top NLNAC & CCNE accredited nursing schools here, have been on the hunt for a job ever since. Have applied to dozens of positions without a callback, and have resorted to going on snap benefits (formerly food stamps) and living in a dingy studio in a bad part of town for 300 a month, eating pork and beans and sardines every day. Only able to post this because I'm using mcdonalds wifi. Going to run out of savings in a month and be evicted, at which point I'll be homeless with a BSN. Had to sell my car and most of my possessions to stay alive, and take the bus to whatever scarce interviews I can get.
I've read the threads on how start off as a new grad, but get told constantly that they want someone with experience. Even worse, my one year hiatus from nursing has HR departments dumping my resume almost immediately. Too poor to relocate at this point, and the student loans are going to kick in soon. I've taken side jobs as a janitor and applied to mcdonalds in this time, but have been told I'm overqualified for the latter. I've shown up in person at HR and asked to talk with nursing managers, but that hasn't lead anywhere.
Does anyone have any advice?
edit: also tried applying to CNA and MA positions
how do I delete this the button disappeared
Guttercat, ASN, RN
1,353 Posts
Why delete?
This is relevant information.
My best advice is move. Whatever it takes.
Do you have friends/family you can bunk with to get your feet underneath?
For what it's worth, when I graduated way back in 1992, there was no "nursing shortage." Most of my classmates either did not find a position, or were forced to move out of state. I was one that had to move.
Hugs.
Tatinha
25 Posts
You need money right now. Apply to restaurant jobs. Take the BSN out of your resume for jobs that do not require a degree. (managers tend to think you are going to find a nursing job a week after you start working and leave them). Try administrative assistant, office jobs. Getting money immediately is more important than finding a nursing job!!! We have become "old new grads". It is like our diploma isn't valid, or never existed. unfortunately that is the reality at the moment. but you never know, sometimes doors close, and better doors open for you. You might find out that there are other careers out of nursing that you will find very rewarding and better. Also, you could try "work force One". Find the nearest office around you. They can help you with your resume and interview skills, they also offer other services free of charge!!! All the best to you.
Proton
161 Posts
Just a little background on myself: Graduated in 2012 with a BSN from one of the top NLNAC & CCNE accredited nursing schools here have been on the hunt for a job ever since. Have applied to dozens of positions without a callback, and have resorted to going on snap benefits (formerly food stamps) and living in a dingy studio in a bad part of town for 300 a month, eating pork and beans and sardines every day. Only able to post this because I'm using mcdonalds wifi. Going to run out of savings in a month and be evicted, at which point I'll be homeless with a BSN. Had to sell my car and most of my possessions to stay alive, and take the bus to whatever scarce interviews I can get. I've read the threads on how start off as a new grad, but get told constantly that they want someone with experience. Even worse, my one year hiatus from nursing has HR departments dumping my resume almost immediately. Too poor to relocate at this point, and the student loans are going to kick in soon. I've taken side jobs as a janitor and applied to mcdonalds in this time, but have been told I'm overqualified for the latter. I've shown up in person at HR and asked to talk with nursing managers, but that hasn't lead anywhere. Does anyone have any advice? edit: also tried applying to CNA and MA positions[/quote']Currently, I'm taking baby steps towards entering the nursing field. I won't pretend to have the expertise on how to find an RN position. However, after reading your post, I am compelled to say this:You have made some sacrifices whilst striving to reach your goal in becoming an RN. I don't think you should lose hope now. I agree with what was said in a previous post - try applying for jobs outside of the medical field to make ends meet. If you are able to rely on family or friends, now may be the time to do so. There are Churches, HR and community centers that can aide in immediate placement for temporary job opportunities (steer clear of organizations claiming to do this for a fee).I have seen grade schools looking for substitute RNs - you can also try to become a substitute teacher since you have a Bachelors (depends on the process for your state).If you can make it until the summer (with help from fam/friends), there are summer camps that hire RNs. Applications being accepted now. Also consider: Restaurants (even the one you're using wifi in)RetailBanksAnimal SheltersUPS/FedExAnd health clinics? Hope this helps.
Currently, I'm taking baby steps towards entering the nursing field. I won't pretend to have the expertise on how to find an RN position. However, after reading your post, I am compelled to say this:
You have made some sacrifices whilst striving to reach your goal in becoming an RN. I don't think you should lose hope now. I agree with what was said in a previous post - try applying for jobs outside of the medical field to make ends meet. If you are able to rely on family or friends, now may be the time to do so.
There are Churches, HR and community centers that can aide in immediate placement for temporary job opportunities (steer clear of organizations claiming to do this for a fee).
I have seen grade schools looking for substitute RNs - you can also try to become a substitute teacher since you have a Bachelors (depends on the process for your state).
If you can make it until the summer (with help from fam/friends), there are summer camps that hire RNs. Applications being accepted now.
Also consider:
Restaurants (even the one you're using wifi in)
Retail
Banks
Animal Shelters
UPS/FedEx
And health clinics?
Hope this helps.
marshmallownurse, ASN, RN
26 Posts
Have you applied to all the LTCs and SNFs in your area? What about home health? Private Nursing? I am so sorry this is happening to you. There is a tumblr blog that signal boosts people in need of a place to stay, if it does come to that. I can PM you that URL if you need it. I also support the suggestions about applying to other positions. If you're so inclined, the Military might be an option? Sending positive thoughts your way.
ruralgirl08
274 Posts
What are the job opportunities in the far north like Alaska? Or maybe military nursing? Just throwing out ideas, not sure if you have already looked into it or not.