Need Help deciding Between 2 Jobs (New Grad)

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I got two new grad RN job offers . First is in Atlanta medical center ICU residency program. The second is an oncology RN residency at the VA in Gainsville Florida. The pay for both are comparable. My recruiter at the VA told me that the process of "credentialing" before I start work at the VA could take anywhere between 5 week to 2 months. Residency at Atlanta medical center starts in in FEB( they don't have a fixed date yet). I am excited about working in the ICU but again I am told the the VA is a great place to work and the benefits are superior. I live in Georgia and I need to make a decision within a week or two. I will really appreciate your inputs regarding this .

Thanks!

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Specializes in being a Credible Source.

Well, do you want to work oncology? Personally, that's not my thing.

Going forward, it's easier to move out of the ICU into another role than from another role into the ICU.

I wouldn't say "no" to either of them until I had a firm start date in hand. It's not unheard of to have offers evaporate for various reasons.

Given the current budget issues and gridlock in DC, I'd be less inclined to hook up with the VA at this particular moment. If the broad cuts go into effect, that position could get suspended and you could find yourself with nothing for a while.

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Thanks for the comments. Your suggestion are my general feelings at the moment,I will just go ahead and continue with human resource in both place. thanks

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Specializes in Med Surg, PCU, Travel.

I agree with previous poster. I am just a new RN student,but I'm in florida and I did hear that the VA here have been going through some budget cuts. With how things are going in Washington I am not surprised. I'd be wary to make the commitment to relocate and work for VA only to have your residency term be cut as the budget become an issue but still keep your options open.

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I am a new RN VERYYYY interested in the VA residency program but haven't heard/found any info on what the starting pay is. termitedew do you have any idea? I would greatly appreciate even an estimate. I was hoping 21.00++ p/hr

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