NEW GRAD! Needs advice

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I'm in search of a new graduate position in the northern va, md, or dc area. I will be graduating this month and taking the NCLEX in January. So far my search for jobs has been unsuccessful. I think my resume looks pretty good. Any tips or help!!!! Thanks!

Tha

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Have you applied anywhere or have you just looked? The DC metro area is pretty saturated in terms of nursing jobs, so you can't really afford to be choose-y in terms of unit, etc etc. Do you have connections anywhere? Use those to your advantage if you have them (externships, volunteer hours, clinicals, friends on the unit, connected to nursing admin somehow).

Other than that, just apply anywhere and everywhere, make sure you highlight your strengths in your resume, take your portfolio (if you have it) to job interviews, really sell yourself! :) Let me know if I can help with anything else!

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Thanks for the information. I've applied to several hospitals in the area Inova, Washington Hospital, VHC, Georgetown, and The George Washington. However, I have not heard anything back or either I receive an automated message stating that I was not considered for the position. I'm not picky about where or what unit I really just want to get somewhere to build the experience. I'm not originally from here so my connection basis is slim besides my professors and preceptor that I've worked with while in school here. I'm going to keep trying to maybe at least get an interview.

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Did you graduate ADN or BSN? If you have a BSN and would be interested in the Baltimore area, try looking at Hopkins and UMMC. UMMC advertises nursing positions for new graduates.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

To be honest, a lot of places won't look at you until you've passed the NCLEX. By all means, keep applying to anything you see because you never know...but keep in mind that employers aren't as willing to take gambles on GNs as they used to--most would prefer you get your license first.

And consider that the DC/VA area is in high demand with lots of nurses--new and experienced--looking for work.

Also, consider looking outside of the hospital box. Working in a hospital doesn't make you a nurse--passing the NCLEX does. So don't fall into the "I want to work only in a hospital" mentality because you may find yourself unemployed for quite a long time. Definitely try to get into one if that's your goal, but don't be quick to shoot down opportunities that are outside of acute care.

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Thanks both of you for the information. I graduated with a BSN and I will definitely keep my options open. Once again thanks for the feedback

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