nursing student seeking advice from chicago nurses!

friendlyjimmy · Jun 11, 2011

Hi,

If you really want to work in a hospital, I would start by finding a CNA job at any hospital near your area. Apply for your CNA job, attach a cover letter and your resume, and follow up on the job. Remember, others are in the same situation you are in and want the same job. Make sure you let them know you're a nursing student, that is a major plus. From what I have seen and experienced, hospitals will hire their own first before they take a new grad. Most don't even want to hire new grads anymore, which is a shame and total BS. If you're not sure what area you want to work in yet, try to get yourself on a med-surg floor or at this point any position they will give you. Even if you don't like the floor you work on, you will meet other nurses from other floors and you can ask them about their jobs. It'll also give you an idea if the hospital is for you or even if nursing is what you want to do. In my opinion hospital jobs are way overrated, i'm sure many feel the same way. The key is to get your foot in the door before you graduate. Show them you are a hard worker as a CNA, help out the nurses, and show them you're a good person. Times can get very frustrating on a floor, but try to keep a good attitude. If you have too much work on your hands and they keep asking you to do stuff, tell them what you are doing and let them know, "I can help you as soon as I'm done." When you transfer a patient to another floor, be friendly with the nurses and make sure the patient is settled in properly. People remember this stuff and little things can make a big difference. Believe me, they will hire you when you graduate or they will hook you up with a position on another floor. Who knows, the nurse you helped out during the transfer, might be one of the people interviewing you one day. What many poor new grads can't prove on a stupid piece of paper, you will be able to show them in person what you're really about. This applies to LTC or any healthcare job.

Also, make sure you network with classmates and people in general. This is very important, you never know when you will need them. If you struggle to find a job, they might be your way in. Remember, in the future if you have a good job and someone you know needs a job, do what you can to help them out. Be a reference, put in a good word for them,...

It is also important to remember that every state is different and many people will go through a different experience while looking for work. Don't get discouraged by all the sad stories you read. Yes it is sad, but you're experience may be way different. Good luck, you will do great!

chitory3 · Jun 12, 2011

Thank you so much friendlyjimmy for your encouraging words and helpful advice.. the only problem I am having with getting a CNA job is I attend nursing school out of state, so its hard to get a job because I am not home that often.