Questions about continuing Education after Graduation in 2012

llg, PhD, RN · Nov 1, 2010

Obviously, it will depend on the specific institution where you might like to work ... but at most hospitals where I have worked ... we would not hire a new grad unless they were willing to work full time for at least 6 months. We would not want to invest that much time, effort, and money into a new grad who wasn't willing to make the investment usually necessary to be successful in the job.

The tranistion from student to professional is often a difficult one. (Just read the related threads on this board to see the struggles new grads can go through.) It's usually best to focus on that transition alone and not be distracted by also burdening yourself simultaneously with school. Once you have successfully transitioned to the role of the professional nurse, it will be much easier to handle both work and school responsibilities together.

I'm not suggesting that you wait a couple of years before starting your BSN program, but I would recommend waiting until you have at least 6 months of work experience and are feeling semi-comfortable in job. I have seen too many people take on too many responsibilities as they try to go through that transition and fail as a result. Most people have better outcomes if they wait a little and make that transition first.

Good luck to you, whatever you decide.

NursingStudent87 · Nov 2, 2010

Thanks for the advice.... And if thats the case then I definitely have no problem waiting till Ive got 6 months experience under my belt! Im still super nervous about taking that break though. Even if it is a short one =)