Peds ER - Setting myself up to get a job - HELP??

[bitter_betsy, BSN]

In May, I will be graduating with my BSN. This week I spent the day in the Peds ER and I absolutely loved it. Sadly, I do not get to pick my precepting location or preceptor next semester. All assignments are made for us, and we don't get to make any changes (we also don't get to make requests). The semester before us ruined all those options for us.

We are building a new hospital (Level 1 Peds Trauma Center - Magnet designation) and it is expected to open around the beginning of the new year. The current ER is fully staffed and has been for quite a while. They are not hiring new PCTs at this time or in the foreseeable future (potentially until the opening of the new hospital). Another student in my cohort is already a PCT in the department, so even if 1 job becomes available it will probably be offered to her first. As students, we are treated like internal candidates and can apply for any open positions. They will start having interviews in February for us to participate in.

How can I set myself up to get a job here? I plan to get my PALS certification (as well as ACLS) during next semester. I also plan to see if the nurse that I worked with yesterday will allow me to shadow her for a couple weeks next semester as well. What else can I do to set myself up to be the best candidate on the list? I'm the oldest in my cohort, so that can either be a blessing or a curse as well - but I realize age is always a factor.

I have tried searching posts, but I'm not coming up with what I'm looking for. Suggestions please?