Soy

Hello to you all, it's so great that we can connect on-line. And it's even more wonderful that we have an expert on board! I've started clinicals and the issue Azdream'nRN brings up is CRUCIAL because already, I've learned so much from the RNs that are on the floor and if it weren't for their support, I wouldn't be able to handle the demands of the job. It really is a team effort. The RNs and CNAs that are already there before you can either help make you day go easier or make it very difficult. I've learned so much from RNs and CNAs that I would really hate going to a different hospital every week. I also like the security of going with an established hospital. I had another question for you Azdream'nRN: Would you happen to know whether private or public is an issue in terms of hospitals to approach for sponsorship? That is, do county hospitals also sponsor international RNs? Good luck shiropaku in your search and let's stay in touch everyone! -Soy

oops, that got posted before I could finish. Anway, Azdream'nRN, you have given me some good ideas and from now on, I think I am going to start attending those open houses and contacting hospital administrators because you're right, the sooner I get contacts, the easier it's going to be for me when it's time to get a job. You seem very well informed on the subject. It's such a relief. I was originally debating whether or not I should post this thread, as this is the first BB I've ever participated on and I am so glad I did! This is really a wonderful way for nurses & nursing students to connect! Thank you!

I knew I should have gone to that open house

Dear Azdream'nRN, Thank you so very much for the advice. I do know how much more difficult it has become for international students. It's also very reassuring to know that hospitals are willing to sponsor. It's a tricky position for international students when it comes to seeking employment because we get conflicting messages all the time as to how to bring up the subject of sponsorship. Some people say we shouldn't say anything about our visa situation until we're offered a position, others think say we should just come right out and make that clear. I've had people tell me they've tried both (in other fields) to no avail. I know nursing's different and now I know I can approach hospitals honestly without feeling like I have to hide anything. So thank you again! -Soy

thanks to all who replied, I think I will go and check it out.

Just out of curiosity, how many of you have been to a nursing open house? Was it helpful, i.e. did you learn a lot about the hospital, I mean the real important things like if they force you to work mandatory overtime and things like that? What is the dress code? Are you expected to bring a resume?

thank you for the warm welcome. this is really a great forum!

thanks annmarei, i will try that. read somewhere else that you just got accepted to nursing school. congrats! way to go!

sorry about the double posting. didn't realize it would appear twice. oops

Hi, I am an international student (on student visa) studying nursing here in California. I'm hoping to become employed in the US upon graduation, but I just don't have a clue as to how I would start looking for jobs given my visa situation. I know there are quite a few international recruitment agencies out there that are trying to recruit nurses from abroad. Does anyone know the pros and cons of going with a recruitment agency? And are there hospitals that are willing to hire non US citizens on their own without an agency's help, considering the legal mumbo jumbo they have to go through? Anyonw who can give some guidance gets a big fat :kiss

Hi, I am an international student (on student visa) studying nursing here in California. I'm hoping to become employed in the Bay Area upon graduation, but I just don't have a clue as to how I would start looking for jobs given my visa situation. I know there are quite a few international recruitment agencies out there that are trying to recruit nurses from abroad. Does anyone know the pros and cons of going with a recruitment agency? And are there hospitals that are willing to hire non US citizens on their own without an agency's help, considering the legal mumbo jumbo they have to go through? Anyonw who can give some guidance gets a big fat :kiss