new grad! first post

Inthesky, I'll send you a PM...

Hello all!

I graduated nursing college in December and I am really excited to begin my first RN job. I live in beautiful Tucson and hope to trade support and discuss relevant Arizona nursing issues.

some opinions on already posted things:

new grad pay- it sucks (except for the VA). At least it is still a ton more than I am used to earning. Well, I'm not a nurse for the money, anyway.

nursing demand- huh? where? *looks around* I called HR every other day to secure this job.

TMC- yes, it sucks. I did my student externship on med-surg. It was overwhelming. My nurse was incredible and inspiring, but her stress level was as extraordinary as she was. and hey kids! Sitters are passe'; restraints are back in fashion!! cheers to budge cuts!

nice to meet you all :w00t:

Well...I'll stick my neck out. I don't think the pay is all that bad. I mean, you are not going to get rich starting at $25.00 per hour. But heck, it's not all that bad either. Do an extra shift every two weeks and it definitely becomes what one would call "good" money. For the lifestyle we get - working 3 12(s) per week, I think the pay is quite fair. Sure I would like a bit more - but not bad considering most have only a two-year degree. Put it this way - docs make about 4 times what we make - but have 4 times as much schooling (as well as residency, etc). It's all relative...

I agree about the job market. It goes in peaks and troughs.

Welcome to the site!

Put it this way - docs make about 4 times what we make - but have 4 times as much schooling (as well as residency, etc). It's all relative...

As well as more than 4 times our school loans!

I got out of nursing school scott free. I agree, for a 2 year program with no debt, I'm making damn-good money.

As well as more than 4 times our school loans!

I got out of nursing school scott free. I agree, for a 2 year program with no debt, I'm making damn-good money.

And on a good day you can help people, too!