Nurse Extern Interview at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago

NurseThis21, BSN, RN · Mar 6, 2011

First off, Congrats on getting past HR at Northwestern! I currently work there and the interview process is just like any other. Since you are a student, they are going to focus on questions that will expose your strengths and behaviors in situations. They also want to see that you will be dedicated to the job and are willing to grow with the hospital. I didn't do the externship there but my peers who did experience it said that it was a very enlightening experience. It really focuses on teamwork, shared leadership and constant education regarding evidence based research. It also helps that you'll already have a foot in the door if you ever decide that you want to work here. Just be yourself during the interview and show them your talents. You've gotten this far so now all you need is the icing on the cake! Have fun and good luck! :-)

heynurse! · May 29, 2011

Hey, did you get the spot? I will be there this summer myself.

boomersooner1 · May 31, 2011

No, I did not.

Servingshots · May 31, 2011

Hey, did you get the spot? I will be there this summer myself.

Congrats on getting a spot there! I will be applying to thier program next summer. Can you offer any advice?

liavida · Jun 2, 2011

I actually did the extern program last year on the medical ICU, its a GREAT experience, so congrats and good luck! Some of the questions they ask you is

why do you want to be a nurse/ why on this unit.

WHere do you see yourself in 5 years?

What qualities do you look for in a work environment?

When was a time you witnessed something go wrong happen, and how did you handle it? Mention a time where you helped others/patient?

If you saw a coworker do harm to a patient/ break confidentiality how would you handle it?

What are you strengths?

What are your weaknesses?

If you made it passed the phone interview- you are already in good shape...just remember to be personable and sell yourself (why your a great fit for the unit) Maybe go online and research a little bit of information about NMH or the Unit/Manager you will be working with.

Also- remember to ask questions! (NOT the salary..but i think it is $15/h?) But things like in a day to day setting what is it you expect from me? What is the patient:nurse ratio, do they feel that collaboration and teamwork are utilized appropriately btw employees, what are the shifts that you will probably work (I think all units do 12hrs 3days a week but im not sure)

After the interview send a thank you letter or e-mail to show your appreciation for their time and consideration for the position, how much you enjoyed it, ect. Small thing to remember- but a MUST!

Hope this helps, let me know if you have any further questions :)

heynurse! · Jun 5, 2011

I actually did the extern program last year on the medical ICU, its a GREAT experience, so congrats and good luck! Some of the questions they ask you is
why do you want to be a nurse/ why on this unit.
WHere do you see yourself in 5 years?
What qualities do you look for in a work environment?
When was a time you witnessed something go wrong happen, and how did you handle it? Mention a time where you helped others/patient?
If you saw a coworker do harm to a patient/ break confidentiality how would you handle it?
What are you strengths?
What are your weaknesses?
If you made it passed the phone interview- you are already in good shape...just remember to be personable and sell yourself (why your a great fit for the unit) Maybe go online and research a little bit of information about NMH or the Unit/Manager you will be working with.
Also- remember to ask questions! (NOT the salary..but i think it is $15/h?) But things like in a day to day setting what is it you expect from me? What is the patient:nurse ratio, do they feel that collaboration and teamwork are utilized appropriately btw employees, what are the shifts that you will probably work (I think all units do 12hrs 3days a week but im not sure)
After the interview send a thank you letter or e-mail to show your appreciation for their time and consideration for the position, how much you enjoyed it, ect. Small thing to remember- but a MUST!
Hope this helps, let me know if you have any further questions :)

That's the position I have this summer!! Give me the details!!!!

heynurse! · Jun 5, 2011

Congrats on getting a spot there! I will be applying to thier program next summer. Can you offer any advice?

Literally what LVMUNOZ said. Honestly, it was the best interview I ever had. Didn't really even feel like one. The people I interviewed with we not intimidating, they were very friendly and I talked to them how I would anyone else.

Servingshots · Jun 7, 2011

how many applicants did they accept?

heynurse! · Jun 7, 2011

how many applicants did they accept?

I'm one of two

Candidate · Jan 24, 2012

Hey, I am applying for this summer extern program (2012) and I had my first phone HR interview. She was really intimidating.

I applied for this floor because my cousin works on this floor and she basically was helping me get this position. I guess I chose her floor (neuro) because of her but I really dont mind where I work. I am happy wherever (except for OB).

That being said, when she asked me why neuroscience unit, I had no idea what to say! I told her that i heard it was challenging and that it also was interesting. She is calling me back for an extensive phone interview and had told me she wanted me to really think about why I want to work for this unit. I have no experience in the nursing field and really don't have a preference! What do you suppose is the answer they want to hear?!

How did yours go? THANK YOU!

iurn86 · Feb 6, 2012

I just saw them post the 2012 externships. When did you apply? How long did it take HR to contact you?

I am applying as well. I hope to hear back from them soon. I did not choose neuro but if I were you I would look up certain disease processes you commonly see so you can sight your interest in them and why its important to have specialty care in this area.