OWI and the job search....

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I didn't know where to post this but maybe somebody knows something here. I am currently in nursing school with 2 semesters left to go. This past March I was charged with an OWI, class C misdemeanor after an accident I had.

I have never been in trouble with the law and this is the only thing I have on my record, not even any speeding tickets. I turned myself in, did the probation time and the alcohol classes and was able to reduce it from a Class A to Class C misdemeanor.

Last week in class we were on a discussion about nurses losing their licenses and such, and my instructor distinctly said "If you have a DUI, you will NOT get a job" (as I understand in Indiana, and OWI and DUI is the same thing)

I currently work as a CNA in a hospital, and haven't had any problems keeping my job...I was honest and let my unit director know my situation.

Will this really keep me from completely getting a job somewhere else after I graduate? I understand that it could be difficult, especially if I am competing with someone with a clean record. But was she right in saying that you can NOT get a job with a DUI??

It has been bugging me ever since, I have worked so hard to get this far...and I know I made a big mistake, I would just hate for this degree to go to waste.

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Definately not true...my friend also had a DWI and got licensed and a great job. Never known someone to not hire for a DUI, unless of course if someone with a clean record had the same qualifications as yourself....this could be the deciding factor. If I were you, I wouldn't worry to much about the statement your instructor made. You kept your job at the hospital you currently work at so you know they're not gonna just fire you for becoming an RN and getting a promotion. Don't worry really, I know of people with worse blemishes on their criminal backgrounds with great jobs. Keep up the good work and graduate, you'll see. :typing

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Thank you, that makes me feel better already!

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I am going through a similar situation. I am 46 and have been a nurse since 1998 and recently got a OWI first offense. I know many people in the medical field with similar charges and they still have great jobs! Employers are more concerned with felonys. We all make mistakes and sometimes those mistakes make us better people. Keep up the good work. We need more caring nurses and you sound like you are fit for the job! Relax, this to shall pass...:nurse:

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I'm not familiar with the term OWI but I do know that a DUI - in and of itself - will not keep you from getting a job - a felony of some sort most likely would, but a misdemeanor and proof you completed all you needed to to make amends - will not keep you from getting a job.

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Thank you for the reply Marshall1 I have worked really hard to get my degree and would hate for one night of being irresponsible to ruin my entire career. I feel so much better now:nurse:

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