No idea how to choose a specialty!

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I am going to be graduating in May, and would like to start applying for new a new grad position or internship, but I really do not know how to choose which specialty I will like. I did an externship last summer in Med Surg, so I would like to try something different. During clinicals, everything was ok, but nothing jumped out at me as what I want to do. Peds was such a short rotation, I think I might enjoy it, but didn't really get a feel for it. I am not interested in ER, but possibly might like ICU.

How did you choose? DId you know right away? ANy advice on what to apply to for a new grad program other then Med SUrge?

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How about cardiac? Having cardiac experience will help you out in any specialty you choose to move on to in the future. How about a surgical floor where all the patients are post-op, not necessarily general med/surg? Really though, if you aren't sure what area of nursing you want to go into, it might be better to stay in a more general area until you do.

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As a new grad, you will not always have a lot of choice, especially these days.

If you are undecided, why not start with med-surg?

Otherwise, an ICU will give you excellent skills that are used in many different areas.

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Some of hte programs I am applying to want me to specify my top two choices, hence the dilemma

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Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.
some of hte programs i am applying to want me to specify my top two choices, hence the dilemma

even if a hospital allows you to choose a specialty on your application and requires you to do so, it does not mean they will consider you for such positions. some employers use this as a way to get into a new grad’s head and weed out those who will really hate working med surg. they are not trying to make you happy. they are trying to make themselves happy!!! therefore, unless you can go without a job for a while after graduation, try to make at least one of your two choices a med surg floor so that you increase your chances of being hired. btw, i started med surg as a new grad in order to be employed. after 9 months i was able to leave and land an er position. gl!

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Specializes in Neuroscience.

The info in this thread is very helpful to me. Am starting RN classes on Jan 11th!

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