What to do over the summer?

Instead of IBCLC (and yes, it's a lot of work - it took me 10 years to get my certification and I actually decided to go to nursing school because it was the fastest way to get my IBCLC), you could look into CLC, which is generally a week-long course. Or CAPPA.

Or you could ask if your local hospital offers a volunteer program and do some volunteer work in OB.

Some hospitals offer a nurse-extern program for student nurses before their last year of nursing school. I did that myself. For twelve weeks in the summer you shadow a nurse in the specialty of your choice. It was a full-time summer job, and we got paid. That was a great experience. It gave you an idea if you really wanted to do that kind of nursing, you got your foot in the door, got familiar with staff and management. A lot of people got hired to the same units after they graduated. I would definitely check that out. Good luck.

Thank you so much for your reply! I will definitely check out CLC! My school pairs with a local hospital for a summer externship. I plan to do it; but it is incredibly competitive within the program. I'll check out other hospitals as well. Sadly, none let us volunteer.

You can apply to be a CNA on the postpartum floor / antepartum. That's how some of the nurses at the hospital I had my postpartum clinicals at got their jobs.

How about finding a doula training workshop? Typically it takes place over a weekend, along with the reading requirements, etc....could be a great certification to add to your resume. =D

Good luck! =D

~MLDJ1970

Another great option is to go and get trained as a Doula. Frequently programs are short in length and a lot of hospitals have volunteer programs you can work in. It would be great exposure to women's health/OB and also a great chance to help women through an amazing experience.

Child birth education!

I am in the same situation as you. My heart is with women's health and I hope to land a job in OB once I graduate. This summer I plan to volunteer. I have filled out a couple volunteer applications. Now I'm just waiting to hear back from them. Good luck with whatever you choose to do!