Paying for your own training as a new grad

llg, PhD, RN · Dec 17, 2010

I think it stinks, but it's the type of thing we may be seeing more of in the futue. The fact that a job is not guaranteed doesn't bother me -- as NO job is guaranteed. All new employees go through a probationary period (usually 3 months) during which the can be "let go" for no reason -- and may not be eligible for full benefits, etc. So, that part sounds worse than it actually is.

Is the "stipend" a living wage? Are there benefits such as health insurance? etc. These are the questions that I would be asking. Also, how much of the program is actually "education" and how much is "abusive use of cheap labor?" That's a big issue.

Finally, how desparate are you? It stinks, but at least it is valuable clinical experience that can put food on the table and help you get a job somewhere else. (I'd be continuing to look for a job while in the program unless you sign a contract saying that you can't leave until it's over -- and I would never sign such a contract.)

So ... while I wouldn't like it, I can imagine myself being willing to do it under certain conditions.

RadBSN · Dec 18, 2010

It would really depend on the hospital, the units in the program, where I could be placed, etc. I would also have the same questions about living wage and health insurance. This is also a little nitpicky, but several New Grad positions I've looked at say that they're for people with less than six months experience, but many "experienced RN" positions want at least a year of experience. I wonder how this might leave you in limbo in terms of applying for jobs.

**RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN** · Dec 18, 2010

I'd love to read the actual email.

Seems like little by little things are progressing slowly to conditions like the Phillipines where new grads pay to work.

hiddencatRN, BSN, RN · Dec 20, 2010

Hi Guys-
A former classmate sent me an email that went something like this:
Hospital X will be hosting their first new GN fellowship program starting March 2011....basically the hospital will train you for 6 months...the pay is a monthly stipend...and charge you a $400 registration fee...and MAYBE you might get a job offer but it is not garaunteed. Also if you do receive a job offer the registration fee may be reimbursed but that depends on the hiring manager.
So what do you guys think? Would you do it? Would you consider it? What are your thoughts?
Luv->NursePati87

I've seen ones where you pay way more than $400 and no stipend is involved. I would be worried that the fellowship wouldn't be considered experience, so you'd end up still a new grad without a job at the end. I don't think I'd definitely rule it out but I'd proceed with caution.

Murse901, MSN, RN · Dec 27, 2010

I'm with llq. This smells like something concocted by administration to get cheap labor while bypassing labor laws by putting it up as an educational program.