Unique23

How was it living in Kotzebue? Would my family and I have any problems in a rural area in Alaska being a African American? I only ask because my husband and I have had people refuse us service in a rural area here in the southern states. I know this is a touchy subject but I just have to ask for my family and self. I know from experience that some people here in the south are very ignorant to change and other cultures, especially in areas where there are little to no diversity. My husband and I are very open to learning other cultures and we are very excited to get to know the people there.

Thanks rockymnthoney. I actually have some decisions to make now that I recieved two offers! One of the positions offered is in the bush and the other in the city. I was a bit discouraged to know that IHS facilities in the cities are not accepting new Commission Corps but are instead referring them to the rural areas. I wouldn't mind a rural area if I were single but I have a family to think about. I have a lot of thinking to do...

Does anyone know if the Alaska Native Medical Center is accepting CO's right now? I am hearing that we have to serve the rural areas first before going to Anchorage?

My husband and I are sooooo excited about moving to Anchorage!! We are looking into neighborhoods and schools for our daughter. The problem is no one has called me back for a job. It has only been a week but I guess I thought someone would have called by now. I applied to seven RN positions that were open until filled in Anchorage at the Alaska Native Medical Center. I am limited to locations because I am trying to get the IHS loan repayment. I don't know if the facility has a true need as advertised or if they haven't called because I am from out of state (North Carolina). It may also look bad that I only have nine months of med surg experience. I am hoping someone calls me back soon because no job then no move. Does anyone know if the facility hires out of state and if they are in need of nurses? I wish I were in Alaska already!! SOOOOOOO FRUSTRATING!!

Thanks for the replies. I am considering going through a hospital instead of an agency. The only thing I worry about with that is securing an apartment for arrival there while here in the states. How is the pay difference with an agency in comparison to working directly through the hospital?

Its so funny that you post this as I just post something trying to move to Australia. I dont know a whole lot about the process but I do know you'll have to register with the state that you will be working at. I would suggest California as they are in desperate need of nursing and they make great money. Not all areas in California are expensive, I lived there for 18 years. You will also have to take the NCLEX which can be from 75-265 questions. The computer will stop when you meet the passing score but this must be done before you reach question 265. The test really isnt that bad. Many people pass with 265 q, 75 q, 110q, etc... The average pay in California is from $29.00-48.00 depending on whether you are with an agency or work with a hospital with a shortage. They do give bonuses as well. I have heard of bonuses up to $20,000, some will even repay your student loans (something I have yet to find in Australia). I hope any of this helps and good luck!!

Hello everyone, I have been searching all over the web for a good nurse traveling agencies that pays for accomodation and assists with VISA sponsorship. I have completed my registration application for the Victoria Boards as my husband and I are looking at the Melbourne area. I actually just recently sent the application out. Does anyone know how long it generally take to hear back for international nurses? I have researched several agencies such as nursing australia, Ogrady, nursing4australia, VNS, Nurse Traveler, Nightingale Nursing, etc... and they dont mention providing accomodation. If I didn't have a 2 year old daughter this would not be such a big deal but we are trying to start a new life there and accomodation even for a month will give us more security and time to get settled. I am still very confused about the whole process of gaining a sponsorship for VISA, police clearance, registration process after assessment, etc... Is there anyone out there who has been through this or understands this process that can provide some insight. Anything will be appreciated!:wink2: SO FRUSTRATING:confused: THANKS

Hey! I know it can be really tough when you are trying to pursue a degree with obstacles in your way. I got pregant in Nursing school and had her a semester before I graduated. I didnt take any time off from school, I had her in June. I have now been working for six months as a med surg nurse. I know this isnt your situation but I posted this because there is always a way! If you are willing to relocate I know that Queens University in Charlotte offers a night school program. There are schools that offer classes and clinicals at night you just got to do some research. You should also consider going to school part time and taking classes on the weekend. There is always hope! If worse came to worse you can take internet classes. Hope this helps!

I am not an Asheville nurse but I have some friends that work out there. One is at Mission Hospital and one at Asheville VA hospital. Mission is a great hospital, huge, I think magnet, and great orientation program. They are in need of nurses right now from what I hear. My friend started off with $21. The housing there is expensive, it is in the mountains, great scenery! Asheville VA is one of the best VA hospitals and it is very hard to get a job there as no one there leaves. The benefits are great, they offer EDRP which pay up to 43,000 of your loans, the retirement program is excellent, they offer relocation incentives and bonus if hired in a position of need, and medical/dental benefits are just about paid by the government( I belive up to 75% paid). One of the reasons why I am trying to get a job at a North Carolina VA is because the oppurtunity for growth is outstanding and you are paid based on your experience and degree. Hope this helps some:wink2:!

I recently applied to the Salisbury VA hospital and are now awaiting for a manager call for an interview. I have been working as a Med Surg nurse for only six months, just graduated in December 07 with a BSN. I don't see any oppurtunities for growth here at the hospital I now work at and have decided that a VA hospital will better fit my needs and the benefits are great. There is only one VA hospital near me and that is Salisbury VA. I REALLY want a position but I don't have such a great feeling about actually getting a position. It might look bad that I have only been at my current job for less than a year and now looking for another job. Besides that I dont know anyone who works there and I hear it's best to get a job here through someone who works there as many nurses here don't leave. Are there any nurses that are working here that can tell me anything regarding the nurse load? I have read past posts from a couple of people and it hasn't sounded to great. Also, can anyone here tell me what there hiring/interview process was like? Or if the managers there are friendly?:wink2: Thanks!