New Grad in an ASC

[JMRN09]

Hi everyone! I am in desperate need of guidance!

After months of searching, I have an interview scheduled next week with a large ambulatory surgery center in NJ. This is pretty much my dream job and I never expected to get into the OR as a new grad especially in this economy. Besides being scared of blowing this interview due to nerves (at this rate I am going on one interview q 6 months), I realllly have no idea what to expect with salary. The cost of living here isn't cheap, and the MINIMUM i could take is 40K due to my loans, mortgage, etc etc. Average pay for a new RN in the hospital ranges from 23-28/hr

I understand the whole pay cut due to not being in the hospital, but is 40K reasonable to ask for?

Hours are M-F with full benefits.

Please offer your suggestions, or advice on how to negotiate salary... the interview is coming up and I need HELP!!!!!!

THANKS