not new grad but no experience

[anurse16]

Hello everyone,

I'm not sure if this is the place to post but would like some advice.

I graduated in 2016 but only have 6 months of experience as a correctional nurse. I put my career sort of on still when I had kids but now want to get it moving. I am currently unemployed and my license will be expiring in 2020. I've applied to numerous hospital jobs and got a few interviews but no offers. I'm split between just accepting any job that I am offered or going back to school and getting a MPH. I have always been interested in public health. Another thing is, if i get a MPH, will I not get hired because I don't have any work experience?

Thank you for your replies in advance!

[Hoosier_RN, MSN]

Without experience, you will most likely have issues getting a job, even with an MPH. Try LTC, corrections, dialysis, and clinics. Hospitals are not the end all to be all. If nothing else and you want hospital, at least you're building experience as well as work history. Good luck whatever you decide!

[LJRNPENSFL]

What is sort of on hold? Is there anything else that impacts your getting hired? I don't think you can get into an MPH program without any RN experience, but I don't know about all schools.

Definitely agree to try other than acute care to get into the job market, but don't stay there. I always wanted to be in LTC. Right after I got out of RN school, I interviewed for a job in that field. The DON told me she would be happy to have me, but she wanted me to understand that that was not a good place to start my career because I wouldn't be getting an opportunity to develop enough skill sets. I took her advice and went to a large hospital. I have always been so thankful for that advice.

Maybe it's your interview? Definitely go in smiling and positive. Address the skills you do have. Remember, the interviewer wants to see what their patients, families, and docs will see. Be genuine and enthusiastic. Be ready with questions and to show your best.