New Grad: Get my BSN or Get a Job?

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Hello Nurse Beth,

I recently passed NCLEX and was awarded an RN title. My question is, "Do you believe it is best to find a nursing job right away or complete the RN-BSN program that I started?" I still have 7 classes left, which will take me a year or so. Thank you kindly for your expert advice.

Dear RN,

Congratulations on passing your NCLEX!

It's important to find a job as soon as possible.

Right now you have new grad status but that only lasts a year at most, and the clock is ticking. The clock started ticking when you passed the NCLEX.

New grad status means you are eligible for new grad residency programs, and extended orientation. The job market is competitive for

nurses without experience, and you will not be considered for new grad residencies in about a year.

At that point, you will be a non-new grad RN without experience.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!

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Specializes in Clinical Research, Outpt Women's Health.

Get a job!

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Specializes in MSICU.

1) Get a job!

2) Take classes as you can fit them in to finish BSN.

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