I am very excited to start upper level classes in my BSN program this fall, but after seeing many comments on here I have become worried about my marketability after graduation. Most of my classmates are already coming from a medical background, and from what I am reading many say that having a CNA certification or prior experience is crucial to getting hired after graduation. Here's my dilemma:
I have no medical background. I am already stretching it time-wise with classes/clinicals 5 days a week and having two younger children at home. Many people plan on working as a CNA or something related to have a "foot in the door" while in the program. I am 31, have a decent resume of managerial and leadership positions from my prior work industry (again, not medical related), but I just cannot work now because of childcare issues and being home for my kids.
I should note that my youngest daughter was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at 15 months (she is now 4) so I have plenty of hospital exposure as well as having to do patient care with her through numerous scans, PICC lines, chemo rounds, hospital stays, and surgeries. However, that is not something you can put on a resume!
So I guess my question is this... Do most nursing students work through their programs? Can I expect to be unable to find employment? I will have a BSN, but I live in Nashville where the market is good and saturated. What can I do to be marketable?
Please bear in mind, many people say they "can't get a job" but what they mean is "can't get a job in the unit I want in the hospital". Many new grads turn their noses up at nursing home, sub-acute rehab or home health nursing work.
I'm NOT saying it's like that in every state. However, I've seen a lot of new grads with the "if I don't get my ideal, then there are 'no' jobs" mentality. Keep your options open when it comes to employment.
Most employers are looking for RN experience, not CNA experience. Being a CNA in a hospital enables you to TRANSFER in to an RN position if one becomes available and another experienced RN doesn't want the position.
It really comes down the job market in your particular area.
This.
Network, network, network, network during your clinicals; as well as research your market and be open to other specialties as a way to build your experience until you find your niche.
Your work at clinicals and during your preceptorship can make a huge impression on nurse managers. They will get to see your work ethic and your skill set. Think of it as a semester long interview:)
LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN
8,429 Posts
This.
Network, network, network, network during your clinicals; as well as research your market and be open to other specialties as a way to build your experience until you find your niche.