So who is hiring?

[blueindigo2]

I know there are a bunch of us new grads out there looking for jobs. So of course we are all stuck in the position of no one wanting to hire us because we have no experience. So how are we supposed to get that experience? Volunteering doesn't seem to count. I am curious to know what everyone out there is doing. And for those who have had luck finding a job, what did it for you?

[vanessaem, BSN, RN]

I'm probably doing the same as you, applying like crazy. I really don't see how these hospitals expect us to get experience without hiring us in the first place. Right now, I'm just a nurse in name only and I am feeling like my license means nothing. I'm trying to stay positive but as the months go by, it's getting harder and harder to do so.

There are lots of capable, intelligent, and eager people out here wanting and willing to work who are not being given a shot.

I wish you and all of my fellow new grads the best of luck.

[beege]

I have applied to over 250 jobs in 5 states. Nursing homes, home health, hospitals, rural health, residency programs and every other position available. I graduated in December was licensed in January. I had two offers from hospitals in Idaho, one from Wyoming, two hear locally and another interview this week. Apply everywhere and follow up. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Look at how many schools in the valley are pumping out new grads every semester. Plus California new grads looking in AZ. It is tough for a new grad. I feel like telling my brother in-law to not go to the private for profit schools that are not ccne accredited I.E. Brookline. 50-70k for a BSN. Most positions and grad school require graduation from CCNE program.

[slwbsure]

Yep, I graduated in December 2013 with my RN, BSN and am having no luck getting even a call back. I applied for my California license in March but they are so inundated that I have not received it yet. I also applied for a Florida license a few weeks ago. I am hoping for something to break free and be given the chance at an interview at some point. To date I have applied in AZ, CA, FL, NM, TX, and CO to any job posting that will take a new graduate nurse. I believe we all are struggling with that "unwanted" feeling. I have to remind myself why I chose to give up a great career with wonderful people to finally finish my dream/goal in the medical field. For better or worse I am married to the field of nursing, not to mention I am getting too old to pursue another area in healthcare. I am however considering furthering my education (MSN, NP) not only for myself but also in hopes of becoming a working (real) nurse. At this point in time, unfortunately I would highly discourage anyone to get themselves in debt with an education that proves to be so difficult to gain employment from.