Should I get a job when i graduate or get my BSN?

SparkleRN · Jan 20, 2011

Get a part-time job and for sure go back for your BSN. Work in a nursing home or at a surgery center part-time...anything to build up some experience and maintain your skills. Not to mention make some extra cash....

Purple_Scrubs, BSN, RN · Jan 20, 2011

With the economy being what it is, those who wait to look for jobs might not have any available! Look for a job while you're starting your BSN program. You may or may not find something in a timely manner so it is best to start the search early and get a foot in the door somewhere.

Kristy02_RN · Jan 20, 2011

Thank you all very much for your advice!

markostalin · Jan 21, 2011

Go for a job if there is a one for you as BSN can be done with the job but job cannot be done with the BSN.

hiddencatRN, BSN, RN · Jan 22, 2011

Go for a job if there is a one for you as BSN can be done with the job but job cannot be done with the BSN.

Not sure I understand what you're saying. If OP waits to get a job and does a BSN, since she already will have completed most of the clinical portions of nursing school other than community health, her clinical skills will age and grow stale. If she gets a job after graduating, she is putting her schooling to use right away, gaining experience, and can do an RN-BSN bridge program while working (and possible get some employer assistance for tuition).

OP: I see no reason to keep working in a furniture store if you have the opportunity to use your schooling. By all means, keep that job until you get a nursing job, but start looking for a nursing job for after graduation.

caliotter3 · Jan 22, 2011

Look for a job in earnest. You can enroll in an online RN to BSN program that can be completed whether or not you are working. The other option is to go to a nearby BSN program full time and forgo full time work until you finish. A lot will depend upon your financial situation. The sooner you get employed as an RN, even if only part time, the sooner you will be able to get your career on track and the sooner you can be self-supporting. Your Mom can't argue with that. And BTW, you got most of what will be of use to you as far as clinical experience. An online BSN program with minimal or no clinical placements will be quite sufficient. Good luck.

**NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN** · Jan 23, 2011

Honestly, get the job first.

I got a new grad job at a hospital in the ICU after graduation. About 6 months in, I resumed my education to complete my RN to BSN. It is doable. I have averaged between 8-12 units each quarter while working full time (and now with a new baby). You can do it.

There are reasons I recommend doing this, which include:

keeping your skills fresh, facilities know that if you arent' working in the field, or are working at certain jobs, you forget things they want you to know with time.

Tuition reimbursement. Student loans suck, honestly, they add up so fast, and before you know it, you are paying 1000/month for the next 10 years, and have no idea if you will ever be able to buy a house, have children. etc.

Your RN to BSN may be easier. Working in the field provides you with valuable knowledge. Many of these programs want you to take your life experiences from your jobs and apply them to papers, group discussions, etc. Many of them even prefer nurses to have experience.

Good luck in your decision.