Trying to get cna exp. while in RN school, but it's been tough getting any hits

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Hey everyone,

I'm almost finished with my first semester of an ADN program. Everyone keeps saying to apply for CNA/PCA positions to get the experience before graduating. I must've applied to over 40 positions in about a month, and have not received an email or a phone call. All of the positions I've applied to have said they'll hire student nurses who have completed their first clinical rotation, in-lieu of a NA certificate. But I have yet to hear anything.

I haven't been working for 3 years (since I started school) - and it was so much easier then to find a job. So applying for a position in this tough job market is new to me. I give credit to anyone who is without a job, or currently seeking a job during this tough time. When you're in school (and not working) you don't really feel it.

I was wondering if any other nursing students with the same intentions of getting cna/pca experience have gone through, or are going through the same thing?

Even if you're not, any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Rehab.

I'm not sure where you're applying, but I know Spaulding has hired nursing students as techs for the summer months in the past. Try to get a job at a rehab hospital or community hospital if you can - they are more likely to hire you as a new grad once you graduate. Boston hospitals are great if you can get in, but they don't have a lot of positions for new grads so it might not help you as much in the future.

Good luck and keep trying!

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I can definitely relate!

I took the Red Cross CNA course before I started nursing school and it took me about 3 months before I got a job. I started at a nursing home and was there for 7 months before I finally landed a job at a hospital. If you have the time get certified. It will open up opportunities in home health and LTC.

Also, don't be afraid to ask clinical instructors or nurses on the floor if they know of any positions. A few of my classmates got jobs this way.

Good luck!

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Thank you both for the tips. I'm going to keep trying. I believe that once you complete your first semester of nursing (fundamentals), you can sit in for the cna exam. So that may be a possibility.

Thanks again, and best wishes to both of you :)

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