Tips to stand out for commissioning?

Specialties Government

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I am currently 6 months away from graduating with my ADN and plan on going straight into a BSN program, during which I will work to gain experience. My plan is to apply for a Direct Commission once I finish my BSN (so roughly early 2019). Since I will only have 1 year of nursing experience, what else can I do to help myself stand out, as I understand that it can be quite competitive. My husband is currently a recruiter and his only suggestion was community service. Besides that and working towards an awesome GPA with my Bachelors, any other suggestions?

I really appreciate any suggestions!

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Specializes in Adult Critical Care.

You stand out the same way anyone stands out. Get extra certifications and education. Get ACLS, PALS, TNCC, ENPC, and ATCN. Get board certified in your specialty (ex. CCRN, CEN, CNOR). Become a charge nurse. Mentor new nurses and nursing students. Teach classes if you can.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Which branch will you be pursuing?

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Which branch will you be pursuing?

Army. My husband is currently active duty Army, so another branch is unrealistic if we want to be stationed together. My goal is Active but I would be totally game for Reserves as well. The other reply mentioned the different certifications, but I would have just over a year of experience when I apply during which I would be pursuing my BSN, so I don't know how realistic it would be to also pursue one of those as well.

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Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

If I am not mistaken, direct commission into active duty still requires two years of experience as a minimum. Might change by the time you have your BSN, but definitely something to look into. I believe Reserves is less — 6 months?

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