Not so New Grad still looking

[WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN]

Well, the year is almost over and I still don't have a job. I graduated in May, passed boards in October and still have nothing. I had a job briefly but was let go for not learning fast enough basically, or not seeming interested in learning which imo was a load of bs. I guess I set my sights too high in wanting to work NICU, but I've worked med/surg, LTC, etc and want something different. Yes, my med/surg experience was as an LPN but honestly other than drips I took care of the same patients an RN did. I've always wanted to work with babies and went back to school so I could do so among other things. It is so discouraging to apply and to not even get an interview, even when applying to something other than what you want. I do have a nibble for a job, but its across the country. I am debating taking a leap since everything near me seems to have a glut of new grads applying for not many new grad positions.

Of course now I'm wondering if I'm going to run into those thinking my "clinical" skills are rusty since I've been out of school so long. I've waited a long time to become an RN and now it looks like I'll have to settle working in an area I do not like, cannot fake liking just so I can get something which is life I guess. I was so hoping to work in an area I love, I'm not giving up trying to do so....I just am at a loss on where to apply. I have found that some graduate nurse positions are for BSN graduates only, which makes no sense to me.

I'm sorry, I just needed to vent a bit. Instead of this being a happy holiday season, so far its abysmal.

[Mijourney]

I am sorry for your plight. You know today it was announced that the U.S. has been in a recession since December 2007. This probably doesn't surprise you, does it? Since you have experience as a nurse, have you given thought to working for an agency to tie you over?

[WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN]

As a new RN I can't work agency :-( I've thought about it.

[Mijourney]

As a new RN I can't work agency :-( I've thought about it.

Unfortunately, it looks like you'll have to go into something you don't like unless you're willing to move. Meanwhile, can you even volunteer in a NICU if you have to work in another area of a hospital? I'm not suggesting you go back to where you were.

[WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN]

I've actually begun to apply to positions other than nicu, still nothing....yet. As much as I would love to stay close to home, its beginning to look like that won't happen. Now I have to decide where I wouldn't mind living for a while, just to get my foot in the door someplace. Southeast US or Southwest? I don't know how the midwest and northern states are for new grads.

[Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN]

First of all you maybe a new grad but you have 13 years of experience. Have you talked to the hospital recruiter and ask how you can position yourself for a job in the NICU. Also volunteer and get to know the nurse manager.

[WildcatFanRN, BSN, RN]

I've been applying to nurse intern/residency programs since I'm still a new grad. I've cast my net pretty wide state-wise. I am even considering signing up with one of those recruitment firms. One place I've applied too I have to get two references from former faculty at my school, transcripts, write an essay...they whole thing. I'll do it, I just need to contact my school and hope I can still get references.

Though now I think I'm competing with the August and now December grads for the few new grad jobs out there. I'll get something...somewhere.