New Grad Question

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Hi All!

I will be graduating in May 2014 (So Close!) and had a quick question about getting a job.

So here we go: I've had my heart set on working in Peds and eventually a NICU but just finished my peds course with a C+ ... I'm pretty sad about it.

I'd still love to work on a peds floor but am worried that my grade is going to prevent this. My clinical instructor for the course had nothing to say but good things and has agreed to be a reference for me but I worry that once employers see the C they are going to immediately dismiss me.

Any advice?

Also if I do end up starting on an Adult unit (med/surg) how difficult is it to move onto a peds unit?

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Specializes in ICU.

I work in a high acuity NICU (ECMO, 23-24 weekers, etc) and nobody's ever asked or cared how I did on any class in nursing school. For my first nursing job, I had to submit a transcript, but it wasn't for grade-related purposes and was after I had signed an official offer.

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

I've never been asked about grades or for transcripts.

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I agree with the previous posters that I was not asked for my grades or GPA. They just want to see that nursing license. I don't know where you are from but it may just be hard to start in Peds, period. The job market is a little shaky. I'd start networking now... Can you work there as a tech, nurse extern or even volunteer? Do you final preceptorship there? If you do start on adults, you can transfer after getting 6 months-1 year experience but it depends on your location/facility on "how hard" it is.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

employers are looking for LICENSES, not transcripts. Do whatever it takes to get that license, then work on learning your new job. Hope you get to work in your preferred area.

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Thanks all! These really helped a lot. I live in Illinois but don't really plan on staying in state (really applying anywhere and everywhere). I don't have a CNA job but do volunteer at some local hospitals and have a job elsewhere in a managerial position so I'm hoping that for those combined with my clinical skills/references will be more than enough for anyone who asks for transcripts!

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I have been asked for my transcript and overall GPA but never a specific grade for a specific course. You should be fine - like the others suggested, do your preceptorship with children and get a day to day feel of what it will be like for you :)

GL

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