What do you think of this comment?

[zenurse]

I just finished my first year of nursing school, and after our finals on Monday we all went to a local restaurant for a little fundraiser. I was talking to my professors, and they asked what I would be doing this summer...I told them I wasn't sure yet, because I was not offered a nurse externship from our local hospital. I told them that I had applied to several other hospitals (all of which are 30-40 miles away...the nearest to us other than our local) but that I hadn't heard from any of them yet. They seemed shocked, because I am a 4.0 student, do well in clinicals, have great recommendations, etc.

My advisor then suggested that I not tell prospective employers that I have a masters degree (in English). She thinks that this may be scaring away potential employers. Another professor agreed with her, saying, "Yes, they are probably intimidated." I should say, I live in a town that is not very urban/cosmopolitan/progressive. I am currently attending an ADN program at a community college. I have lived in large cities, and my masters degree is from an ivy league school. I've always assumed that my previous degree has given me a good foundation in communication skills, and it has certainly helped me to cope with the rigors of studying and time management that nursing school requires.

I really don't think that I should hide my education...on the other hand, if it is getting in the way of opportunities, should I consider leaving it off my resume? My gut is saying that an employer who would consider this NOT to be an asset is an employer I wouldn't want to work for...

Thanks for taking the time to read this. Any opinions, advice?

[zenurse]

So--here's an update:

I interviewed for a Nursing Assistant position at another hospital, and left my educational background on my resume, because I really feel it is a part of my qualifications. I was interviewed by two women, one from human resources, and one who was the nurse learning specialist for the hospital. The first thing the HR woman said was "Wow--I've never met someone with such an excellent education" and I was thinking uh oh... So I just chuckled, said "I hope that's a good thing..." then went on to say something like "well, it's an entirely different field, but I do think it has helped me to know what to expect in terms of the rigors of nursing school..." That was all that we said, and the interview moved on from there. They were really most interested in trying to get a feel for how I solved problems, and how I communicated in difficult/sensitive situations...the interview felt good, and I was offered the job four days later!

I've also since found out that the place where I didn't get hired (even though I was told I was an excellent candidate) actually filled all of its positions with folks who already worked for the hospital, or who had a relative who worked there.

I'm just glad that the hospital that hired me is willing to give me an opportunity! I'm so excited to start!

Again, thanks to everyone for the advice and opinions.