I am graduating in two months. It took me seven years from the moment I decided to become a nurse to when I started my BSN program. I thought I did everything right. Graduating Summa Cum Laude. Volunteering at every opportunity. Years of job experience in healthcare. Networking. But, I am getting turned down for every job I apply to.
The best advice I could give anyone is not to pursue a career in nursing. I thought I was going to be an awesome nurse. I have the passion, the drive, the compassion, the dedication, the hard work--but that doesn't matter. If you don't have two years experience you can't even get your foot in the door. No one will take you.
I got one job interview but I flunked the "describe a situation where..." questions. The biggest employer in my area requires an electronic "talent" test and if you don't get the right algorithm your application doesn't even make it past HR, so it doesn't matter how hard you work. I regret the moment of "clarity" when I thought nursing was the right thing to do. Me, and thousands and thousands of other naive people who think they're actually going to make a difference in the world.
This is probably the lowest point in my life, and I've been through a lot. I thought I'd finally "made it". I thought I'd pulled myself up by my bootstraps. But I don't see any way out, now. I'm in debt and can't get a job, and neither can many, many other new graduates.
I have only known one person to have a job secured before passing the NCLEX. I don't see why you're so discouraged when you didn't even pass the NCLEX yet. Where I am from (MA) you can't even apply anywhere before having your license. Everyone in my class found jobs, I was working one month after passing the NCLEX. When you become a nurse you may not get your ideal job but you will find something. Don't give up so fast! You will get to where you want to be one day, it takes time!
I'm working as a registration clerk in a trauma/emergency department right now and have a guaranteed nursing job there when I graduate... Have you thought about getting your shoe in the door as a tech or support staff while you're finishing school and taking/awaiting scores for your nclex? Many hospitals want you to grow within them and I know it may not be ideal but it's better than being jobless with no healthcare experience!
I definitely know how you feel. It took me 8 months to get my first nursing job and That 8 months was the most miserable time of my life. I finally got a job in home care which has been amazing! I have worked my up and now manage my own agency making 6 figures a year. Iv only been a nurse for 5 years. Keep your head up and don't be picky about that first job, it will get you where you want to be even if it isn't your first choice.
You have every right to complain and be concerned. You are facing a tough situation. This quotation gets me through the hard times: "Difficult situations are opportunities to be our best selves, hone our skills and rise to the occasion. ~DailyOm"
It is a challenging job market, but walking into any interview with an attitude of negativity will reflect in your face, in your body language, and in the way you speak .
Finally I suggest you go to Ted.calm and do a search for Amy Cuddy. Watch her time on power dynamics which is only 18 minutes long, and it is very important and relevant to body chemistry and mind state.
Your attitude of "what if I don't achieve X by X, I will have to pay back the loan" that has not happened yet, and it's just as possible that you will get hired before that. So address the concerns with your fiance, and explain how you are feeling, and then get that degree.
Is relocation a possibility? If it is, start applying across the country. I don't know what the restrictions on your employment are, but I do know of one nursing home in rural Montana that is DESPERATE for nurses and would not turn down a new grad. It is not a great place but it is a job.
I am sorry that you are frustrated and I do understand. Sometimes it seems difficult, but nursing is an amazing profession. Look for residencies with your local hospitals. You might have to call the human resource department, but they cater to studrnts who still have to pass the NCKEX. A lot of hospitals see a need for further preparation for new nurses and are creating these opportunities. They don't pay a lot initially, but you are afforded opportunities to work in specialised areas (ER, ICU, Tele etc). I live in San Antonio TX and can really only give you my perspective here in town. My first job was with home health (while I waited for my residency to start in the ER)....and even if this isn't your "ideal" job, they usually pay more (mine did) and are more likely to hire new grads. Once you get some experience it will be a lot easier.
Good luck. I will be praying for strength and understanding for you and your family. It will not be easy, but it is absolutely worth it. It is a stressful time...just wrestle one bear at a time and it will work out in the end. God Bless!
Sounds fishy.... What is this federal scholarship called? Lose the boyfriend, your already so down on yourself you don't need him also adding to your burden. Like it's been mentioned before, have you looked at rural health or critical access hospitals? But wait... Pass your NCLEX first, get a license or at least a temp, then really pursue a job.
You will get a job eventually. Just keep applying and all of the sudden, everyone will call you at once and you won't know what to do. Even in NYC, where there is a surplus of nurses, this is true. Don't freak out yet.
Libby1987
3,726 Posts
Can I ask? How much of these details did your fiancé understand from the beginning? How will his livelihood be affected? Does he currently have a budding career himself?