How soon can you apply to the VA? Will nurse recruiters talk to you if you are several months away from graduating? For the hospital I want to apply to, the nurse recruiter's contact information is listed on the website; however, I hesitate to contact him/her because on USAjobs.gov it says that they want you to have a license prior to applying.
tri-rn 170 Posts Specializes in MICU/SICU. Feb 27, 2013 Apply. The application process is so long, you could have your license before you get through it LOL.And yes, the VA does hire new grads...at least mine did :)
Isitpossible, LPN, LVN 593 Posts Feb 27, 2013 I worked at the VA while going to school. As I neared completion of my studies, I reached out to the nurse recruiter. She advised me to apply once I finished my studies. I did apply for one position but was not hired, not even considered. I left the VA because I wanted nursing experience. That was May 2012. I just reapplied with the VA once again, now with some experience. I am checking my status continously to see if I was referred for consideration. I have NOT contacted the recruiter, but maybe I should. I obtained permanent status as I have 3 years of continous federal service, but unsure if that will help me land this position. I think I will reach out the recruiter. I'll let you know what she says!
BunnyBunny 31 Posts Mar 19, 2013 It doesn't hurt to call, but if their announcement prefers you to have your License, then I would wait.
SummitRN, BSN, RN 2 Articles; 1,567 Posts Specializes in ICU + Infection Prevention. Has 11 years experience. Mar 19, 2013 You could certainly apply within a month before graduation due to the length of the application process and there appropriate places to mark in the paperwork that you are an expected graduate.
Isitpossible, LPN, LVN 593 Posts Mar 19, 2013 just received notification that I met the requirements and my information has been "forwarded" (two separate positions)... i remain cautiously hopeful
Enthused RN, BSN, RN 299 Posts Specializes in ICU. Has 5 years experience. Mar 19, 2013 That's exciting news Isitpossible! Have you worked yet as a RN or would that be your first RN job?
Isitpossible, LPN, LVN 593 Posts Mar 19, 2013 enthused!! ive have worked as a RN - not quite one year t though!! (long term care and psych) im just praying that my fours years time with the VA will count for something!! lol... i am excited at the possibility but will stay guarded, so im not too disappointed if it doesnt happen. some RNS i currently work with told they tried for YEARS to get in the VA, and could not... so it makes me nervous, and these RNs have a ton of experience!!!
