USPHS

AWanderingMinstral · May 27, 2009

CorrectionalNP: I tried most of the numbers you gave me. Only the one in Crownpoint is looking for new grads. however, there's no orientation program. And it's hard to apply for govt housing. no apt for rent on the reservation besides trailer park.. sigh....

Well, now you know WHY they have to offer sign-on bonuses, etc. I was really "gung ho" about serving in the USPHS/CC, but the application process is something akin to the blind leading the blind. Frankly, I'm tired of getting the speech about bureaucracy and short staffing. *Sigh*

BSN317 · May 27, 2009

Hey guys!

Well my recruiter emailed me today and apparently next week theres this big symposium going on in Atlanta for the Corps Officers. If you go to the homepage, you will get more info. My recruiter said that if I am willing to travel it is GUARANTEED I will secure a psoition while meeting with the recruiters and presenters there. There will be a lot of agencies and recruiters in the building in Atlanta all week. I plan to go only one day since I am close to the area (about an hour and half) so hopefully if I can get off I will go and see whats up with everything. I am excited, but then again feeling like I shouldnt get my hopes up. Nurse category day is Tuesday so I will be there then. Also, theyre offering an ACLS course over the weekend so I may go and take that as well just because I want that certification. I know you all may be farther away from the area, but its just a heads up and maybe sometime soon they will be in your area. I am going to get prepared by dolling up my resume (even though it isnt extensive yet), taking my business cards (we get them in public health as nurses), and wearing something very professional. Any other suggestions? Im nervous!!!

PS you can go the Commissioned Corps main site and get all the info on the conference

goldensfo · May 27, 2009

This is a good opportunity! but Atlanta is too far from me (NY).. Good luck to you! Let us know how it went~

rcjohnis · Jul 1, 2009

I started the process back in Jan. Until you have a hire date (Form 1662) from an agency you will be a normal priority (read low) at PHS. Start applying with agency now, you should do both application processes at the same time.

goldensfo · Jul 6, 2009

hey everyone! how's job hunting going? haven't seen anyone posted anything in a long time~

oh just one quick question, do we start at O-1 or O-2 level as new grad?

BSN317 · Jul 6, 2009

Hello!

Well, my job hunting is going great, actually. I interviewed with DIHS about a week ago and was offered the job. It is about a 35 minute commute from my home. I have to go through this LONG background check process so I dont know when my start date is. Also, I received a call for another interview with DODDS, working with the Mental Health Initiaive at a nearby Army base. This position is only 10 minutes from my home, so I am going to interview there too. Also...a side note! BEWARE about the sign on bonus!!!! IT IS NOT GUARANTEED TO YOU! My "recruiter" actually got me the 2nd interview by sending my resume. He also told me that the specific agenices are the ones who do the bonuses- not he USPHS. So, it is essentially up to the agency if they want to give you a bonus or not. You must talk about this at your interview. Also, nurses come in at minimum rank of 0-2. He told me that as well. Hope that helps!!!

BTW, how are things coming for you?

AWanderingMinstral · Jul 6, 2009

I am opting to go to grad school (MPH) instead. I may look into the student opportunities after my first year (for the $$$). Good luck to those of you who decided to join!

goldensfo · Jul 8, 2009

BSN 317: that's great news! congrats. I actually had an interview with the BOP. They said they would let me know their decision in 2 weeks. keep my fingers crossed... But I didn't know you had to ask them about the bonus during the interview. :cry: my CAM was transfered out of PHS 1 month ago, and they still haven't given me a new CAM. can't believe it.. no help from them at all!!!

AWanderingMinstral: which school are you going to for your MPH?

AWanderingMinstral · Jul 8, 2009

goldensfo: I am heading to the University of Pittsburgh. They have been REALLY great. The USPHS really needs to GET IT TOGETHER. I applied for positions with the IHS in the Albuquerque Area and I was told I needed to submit my transcripts...again. Um, didn't I do that for the USPHS/CC already? If they need health care providers SO badly, then they need to streamline the application process. Good luck!

goldensfo · Jul 9, 2009

wow good for you. It's a really good university! :yeah: Are you starting in Sept? Good luck in your future study!!

Yes I totally agree with you about USPHS... :bugeyes:

AWanderingMinstral · Jul 9, 2009

Yeah, I'm starting full-time in the fall, switching to my unit's weekend program (working only Sat and Sun), and applying to Pitt's one remaining opening in their Master's International (Peace Corps) slot. It would be my second time in the PC. If I opt NOT to do the PC, then I'll definitely explore student opportunities with the USPHS/CC after my first full-time term (for the summer).

NursePamela · Jul 9, 2009

Hello!
Well, my job hunting is going great, actually. I interviewed with DIHS about a week ago and was offered the job. It is about a 35 minute commute from my home. I have to go through this LONG background check process so I dont know when my start date is. Also, I received a call for another interview with DODDS, working with the Mental Health Initiaive at a nearby Army base. This position is only 10 minutes from my home, so I am going to interview there too. Also...a side note! BEWARE about the sign on bonus!!!! IT IS NOT GUARANTEED TO YOU! My "recruiter" actually got me the 2nd interview by sending my resume. He also told me that the specific agenices are the ones who do the bonuses- not he USPHS. So, it is essentially up to the agency if they want to give you a bonus or not. You must talk about this at your interview. Also, nurses come in at minimum rank of 0-2. He told me that as well. Hope that helps!!!
BTW, how are things coming for you?

Regarding working with the Army in mental health do they say how much experience you need to qualify??

Thanks,

Pam