Student extern programs for summer 2009

[llg, PhD, RN]

As the coordinator of a summer extern program, I am trying to find out what hospitals across the United States are doing about their summer programs for nursing students. Are they eliminating them? Reducing the number of externs hired? Shortening the lengths of the programs? Did those programs that offer housing continue to provide housing? etc.

My hospital has shortened the program slightly and reduced the number the we accepted -- but we are still having the program. What is everyone else doing?

I would appreciate any information you would all like to share.

Thanks,

llg

[RNMeg]

I'm a nursing student in Arizona, and most of the hospitals around here are still offering externships, but they require a work contract for after graduation. And, it's just my luck, the hospital I already have a contract with has eliminated the program for this year.

[amarilla, RN]

Northern NJ: student extern program where I work has been greatly reduced.

I'd thought to apply and dropped by HR for details and an application; I was told last month that overwhelming application far exceeded possible spots and the program was being scaled back.

The hospital generally offers a shorter winter extern experience to area students also, but did not this year. No news on when or if this program will resume next winter.

Best,

Southern

[Multicollinearity, BSN, RN]

Out of my class of about 28, only 1 student was able to secure an externship. The hospital she's doing her externship at reduced their program from 30 spots to 5. Several other hospitals have hiring freezes. On a related note, several hospitals have eliminated their sponsored tuition (for nursing school) programs.

One of our instructors cited tough local conditions and gave us information about a summer externship opportunity at a peds hospital on the East coast. We are in AZ.