Ontario New Grad Initiative, but graduate years ago

[electricblack]

So here's the story. I failed my first two attempts of CRNE and basically just got my license on November last year. It has been two years since I graduated (2011) but technically I have not taken advantage of the New Grad Initiative since I haven't really worked since.

I know this would sound a little silly but is there any way for me to somewhat "claim" that initiative now that I finally am looking for my FIRST job since i graduated? I did try to look at the government website and there was absolutely no information. Upon contacting the phone number on the government site they said to refer back to the website...which funny enough tells you that if you have further inquiries to call them. (it's a never ending loop to nowhere).

I am just very concerned because I have nothing to show for my bedside nursing experience within these past years, new grads not only are they fresh out of school, they have the initiative to back them up. The competitions getting tighter and I just have no chance. I am however trying to acquire a few courses but they are nothing compared to REAL experience.

Any advice?

[loriangel14, RN]

I think the NGI has pretty much petered out in Ontario.Very few employers were interested in taking part.

[electricblack]

My last interview said that theyd be more willing to hire me if I was under the new grad initiative to give me more time for training. I guess it saves money in their pocket as well.

[loriangel14, RN]

Was that employer taking part in the program? They have to be registered with the program.

[electricblack]

Yes they are, and I believe the majority of hospitals in the Greater Toronto Area are with the NGI which sucks I have to search for jobs outside of the province because the majority of them would only hire you without experience if you are a 'new graduate' which usually means they require people under the new grad initiative

[loriangel14, RN]

Really? I'm in the GTA and the new grads I work with said they didn't find any jobs under the NGI.You don't need to look outside of the province. There are places that hire new grads.I work with several right out of school.Apply to everything, even the ones that say they want experience.

[electricblack]

I guess I missed a few spots either way my lack of experience for the past 2 years would definitely ruin those chance though. For now Im aiming to get to any agency that would have my and hopefuly get certifications on a few things. Im just disappointed that i couldnt take advantage of the NGI...it would have been a great asset to have

[loriangel14, RN]

Keep trying. Good luck.There are still some jobs out there.Did you try RVH in Barrie? Outside of the GTA but it would be better than leaving the province.

[loriangel14, RN]

Registered Nurse – New Graduate Initiative - Sunnybrook Hospital

http://ca.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=cce0c8d7bd407d19&q=New+Graduate+Nurse&l=Ontario&tk=17tphmhqb1d2h0h8&from=web

http://ca.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=d440991ada0b533a&q=New+Graduate+Nurse&l=Ontario&tk=17tphql221d2h5lr&from=web

All of these postings state they will consider new grads.

[electricblack]

Keep em coming lori haha. Thank you for the support though. =) I definitely tried almost all of the position from RVH and even London and Niagara

[loriangel14, RN]

Did you try Headwaters?

[ruralgirl08]

See this link, page 8, regarding eligibility:

http://www.healthforceontario.ca/UserFiles/file/Nurse/Inside/ngg-participation-guidelines-jan-2011-en.pdf

Electricblack, from reading this, I don't think you are eligible since you completed your program 2 years ago, and not within the last 6 months. (But call them again to clarify, I am not an expert, just a fellow poster.)

I think taking some additional courses, should help you though. Sometimes it takes an HR department 4-6 weeks before reviewing your application, and calling you. Do call backs, on your applications. Keep your chin up, you still have many options. Apply to everything: LTC, Homecare, Flu clinics, Hospital, casual, part-time. temporary positions, just to get some kind of experience as a nurse. It may be beneficial to look at relocating (unfortunately) since the market is tough in a lot of areas. Also, if you have still found nothing by 2014, you could look at refresher courses. (But I doubt it will take you that long). Good luck! Please update us when you land something.