New Grad- Ain't So Bad

21 Posts

I have been browsing these boards for a pretty long time now - and the general consensus as we all know by now is that being a new GN / RN SUCKS due to the job market. I have read dozens of threads here about people struggling and I felt very pessimistic about things being any different for me - my grades were mediocre, I didn't participate in any student nurse organizations, I have an Associate's instead of a BSN, etc.

I just wanted to post this and let the other new grads surfing these forums that there ARE some success stories out there...

I graduated in May, have not taken the boards yet due to some stupid delay (no fault of my own) while processing my background check. After waiting around for nearly 2 months and calling the BON every week, I was finally notified that my prints were rejected. I resubmitted them and was told that today (6 days after my second submission) that it came back free and clear - and I should FINALLY be receiving my ATT and permit soon.

I jumped the gun a little and went ahead and applied for a GN position at a hospital, and was offered positions on two different units last week, on the spot. The only catch is that I *AM* having to relocate fairly far outside of my home town in the DFW area.

You know what though? It sure does beat sitting around here and trying to compete with hundreds of new grads that have better grades, more experience, etc.

So, long story short - if there are any new grads or soon-to-be new grads out there despairing over the general climate of posts regarding the job hunt for us: here is a positive one!

I have absolute confidence that if I was NOT willing to move, I'd probably be looking for work for at least a couple more months. I'm excited to get on with my life and will do what I need to do. I realize the option isn't available to everyone, but it was open to me and THAT is what I have going for me, if not grades and previous experience in health care etc.

Best of luck to all, believe me, I know it looks pretty bleak out there for us but if I can make it happen, anyone can.