Need new grad advice

nitasarn · Jan 2, 2013

You could start applying but in my experience it seem like it was a "get back with me or keep in touch until you pass boards and receive your license

bwrightnurse123 · Jan 2, 2013

That's what I thought would happen... Seemed way too early to me. Thanks for your reply!

Annaiya, NP · Jan 2, 2013

I graduate in May too, and I was thinking of starting to apply for jobs at the earliest in March. Even then, it's still really early. If they want to fill a position in March and the soonest they could even start the credentialing process in sometime in June after passing boards, that seems to be a really long gap. I'd be curious what other people's thoughts are on this question though. I don't want to waste my time applying too early, but I don't want to be late and miss opportunities either.

greygooseuria · Jan 8, 2013

I've started applying already and have had two job interviews so far, with a third on the way, and I graduate in May. None have been local. I'd say it's a perfect time to start applying.

mammac5 · Jan 8, 2013

Might be too early to start applying for job openings now, but definitely not to early too start making contacts. By the time a new NP position is posted for applicants, a whole lot of people are aware that this opening is on the way. The contacts you make today may very well be aware of practices or hospital systems that plan to add NPs next summer. If it's a large practice or hospital, they already had that position approved in their budget and just haven't posted the job yet. Get to know everyone you can. Attend professional dinners/seminars now (even if they're held by drug reps and you have "issues" with that, as many do) and meet people. Let everyone know you will be testing in the Spring and ready to start working.

allnurses Guide · Jan 8, 2013

Hello! I graduate FNP school in May. My last preceptor suggested I start applying for jobs now. Just curious if this would also be suggested by other NP's who might have graduated in the last few years and were in a similar position. I will be working in Tennessee and have no preference on area of specialty or practice. Was just planning on seeing what was available in my area. Thanks so much and happy New Year everyone!

Start now! If you are the right candidate, they will wait until May for you. Work your preceptor connections. If you wait until May or June you likely won't be working until winter.

I actually signed my contract the January before May graduation and I had two solid offers at that point.