What do (did) you do during the gap between graduation and your first job

[sourapril]

Just want to see what everyone's plan is besides studying for NCLEX.:)

Also, if you don't have a CNA job or other jobs already, what else can you do for a few months during the gap? I plan to volunteer.

[calivianya, BSN, RN]

Do you think it's more likely to get an interview once you are licensed?

Not directed to me, but I thought I'd just say that depends on your area. It's not likely where I live - places hire all of their new grads well in advance of people passing boards, so if you waited until you passed boards to start looking you would have missed the boat.

[JenTheSchoolRN, BSN, RN]

I finished up my RN coursework, got pinned, then got married two weeks later. I started my MSN (I'm direct-entry) coursework a week later and took the NCLEX two weeks after the wedding. Then I started subbing as a school nurse almost full time one month later.

I think I slept a little in between. Maybe.

[ssaarraahh]

It took me 11 months to get a job here in beautiful California. In that time, I took the nclex, worked two jobs, went on vacation, went to the beach, relaxed, and of course, applied for jobs. It was a little stressful not having a nursing job but it was also good for me.

[Good Morning, Gil]

Yes, I do (think it's more likely to get a job once you're licensed), especially in certain states that won't consider you until you're licensed. Some states do the GN thing, and others don't, just depends on your location.

[Maladroit, BSN, RN]

I graduated March 3rd, took and passed NCLEX mid April (first available), and I start my new grad residency Aug. 12! I had been applying out of state since Dec., had two out of state interviews, am moving to my new state. In the meantime, I also went on two minivacations, refinished two large pieces of furniture, dealt with a massive flood at my 30+ horse barn, cooked a lot, relaxed, and applied to as many jobs as I could find, read a bunch of books, looked into my new field - Pediatrics!!! It's a long haul, but I'm only 1 of 7 of my graduating class of 49 to have a job yet.

[DalekRN]

Had a baby. You'll be fine.

[sourapril]

Wow, looks like most of you found or had a job lined up soon after graduation. I applied to 20+ jobs and no interviews yet. I babysit occasionally, apply for jobs (of course!), and have depressing moments almost on a daily basis. I want to expand my searching area and apply to rural hospitals, but boyfriend doesn't want to leave the city...

For those who spent more than 6 months on job hunting, when you finally landed a job, did you do something different from previous job applying? (like talk to the nurse manager directly or something?)

[schnookimz]

I graduated two months ago, have been licensed for over a month now and have applied to well over 100 jobs--I live in a big city. I have only had one interview which was a phone interview that amounted to nothing so hang in there! You might have a ways to go!