Right Decision

[kevin23226]

I graduated in August of 2009 from an ADN program here in Virginia. In December of 2009 I got my license. I am an RN. I decided to continue with school in hopes of getting my BSN. I am 46 years old, and felt as though I needed to continue. 1 more semester of core classes and than I can look for work. I will do the rest on line.

There are days I feel like I should have gone right into work. I feel as though when I do start to look for position, the recruiters are going to say "it has been 18 months since you finished school or you have had your license for a year now, you should have applied than." I spoke to a friend last night, he asked me if I was working yet, and I said no. His response was " you know you better use it before you lose it." I feel as thought I still remember everything I learned in lecture and clinical s. I was told that you will learn everything on the floor anyway during orientation and as you progress through your first year.

I can look for work now or do 1 more semester. I was also thinking of finding a part time job in a long term care facility 1 day a week. I can also volunteer at a local "free clinic." Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[nobhill]

I think getting some practical experience while you are still in school is a good idea. I'm not at the point where I am looking for a job yet, but I have worked with professionals in other fields and this is what I always suggested.

As to whether the LTC or free clinic would be better, perhaps others could share their thoughts. I would think the free clinic would be better, but it would probably depend on where you wanted to work.

Don't worry about what your friend thinks you should or shouldn't be doing. I have dealt with this about my career as well. Just remember, you will do what you need to do in the time it takes you. In the long run, whether you finished six months earlier or not isn't going to matter. As to what a recruiter might say, the explanation you provided seems perfectly logical.

You will be great! :)

--Nobhill