Salaries for new grad RN's in Richmond?

[dlkjmk]

I'm a prospective nursing student hoping to begin the Commonwealth Nursing Program at John Tyler in Fall 2008, and I'm just wondering what kind of salary I might be able to expect coming out of the program. I have 8 years of work experience including management. I know that I'll be taking a pay cut to be a nurse but it's totally worth it!!! Just trying to plan for what kind of hit our budget will take :) I would like to work in a hospital setting - our home is right by St. Francis so that would be great, but I'm willing to travel to the West End or VCU/MCV as well.

Also, does anyone have any advice about working extra shifts right out of school?? I think that the standard is 3x12 hour shifts, but I'd definitely be willing to work an additional 8 or 12 hour shift per week to increase my pay....in my current (desk) job, I am working 45-50 hours a week normally so I am used to this. I'm sure it will be harder as a nurse since you are on your feet all day but I'd like to get any feedback on whether this is a good idea.

Thanks!

Joy K.