BEEJ52

Sorry, I apparently sent my reply to the wrong person.

I taught school for 4 years, then went to nursing school. I was able to step into critical care as a new grad and have never looked back. I have been working in critical care for 28 years now, and I still enjoy what I do! I currently work with another guy who was originally a mining engineer before becoming an RN in his early 40's. He is very happy for the change.

No really good answer there since states and hospitals vary so much. If you are an active guy, check into states that are heavy in what you like to do. If you are seeking employment as a New Grad, you need to research hospitals that offer training for new RN's, either wherever you are or in other states. Specialty? -- you will need to decide that one, my man. However, I would say that ER and Critical Care (ICU, CCU, MICU, SICU, etc.) are the two biggest guy areas. Flights is as well, but new RN's are rarely, if ever, trained for that. Normally one needs at least 2 years experience. Good luck to you!

Absolutely not! Instructors are people, too, and have experiences to share. The instructor didn't monopolize the discussion with her own losses and grief. Frankly, I am taken aback that you felt compelled to ask...

Your boss is wrong, particularly since the discussion was not centered around your personal experience. You might consider writing a letter of disagreement that includes a demand for removing the criticism from your file. If that is refused, your letter needs to be included in your file.