"New Grad" or "Old Grad"??

[Nurse This!]

So, long story short, I have had personal/family/finance issues that has kept me from taking my boards and beginning my career as an RN. Through struggle, strife and basically a life epiphany, I have finally passed my boards (YAY!) and felt like the worst was over. I feel like was sadly mistaken. I got my license in June and still have yet to receive an interview. I am only 25 years old, but I feel like my life is racing past me without the money I need to step into the 'real world' with my career. Can anyone offer any advise? My mom is an ICU manager and she insists that I don't need to take an RN refresher course because they hospital that will hire me, will train me for that unit. I'm holding off on doing that also because I don't have $400 dollars to burn. Almost every nurse recruiter I have spoken with has said that I've missed the boat for the new grads that they hired for June and the next one either won't be until September or even until NEXT YEAR! I can't wait that long. I am struggling with paying rent and I want to start working as a nurse already! On a lighter note, today I did receive a call for the corrections facility in Fairfield, Ca as a Nurse. Is this a wrong move?? should I take this opportunity in the mean time or will I lose my skills as a nurse??

I know that was worth starting 4 or more threads, but I have a lot on my mind! Please someone, help me!!

[neeni1]

go with your gut....if you are struggling to pay rent and you have been offered a position at a correctional facility take it....it could be your blessing in disguise. I am a true believer that everything happens for a reason....maybe your calling is to be at the facility.....give it a try...what's there to lose.

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

If someone is willing to take you on as a new grad and you're struggling financially, I agree with the above poster....take what's going to get you in the door and the bills paid.

Later if you do get a hospital job, your mother is correct, they will train you on the job for their particular speciality and your skills will come back.