What are you being told?

I would say that it really depends on your area, what hours you are able to work, and what kind of position you are willing to take.

I graduated in December and only 2 (35 grads) of my classmates have been hired as LPNs, though several still haven't taken the NCLEX. Most have gone back to what they were doing before they started school or are still looking. I take care of my stepmom during the day for half as much as I would make at a real job but it benefits us both, I will be starting a transition program and didn't want to take a job that I won't be able to continue in a few months.

what state?

Just curious what your instructors or others are telling you about the job outcome once you graduate as an LPN? Any mention of what to expect in terms of pay?

I'm trying to research this a bit because I have to take out a small loan to help with school next year, and I want to make sure I'm not setting myself up for a bad situation. I tried asking about current pay/jobs in my region and the LPN/LVN corner, but didn't get much of a response. Just curious what rumors the students are hearing. Mentioning your location might help... : )

(Edit: I meant to put this in the LPN Student section. However, maybe you LPN to RN students can help me with the question as well)

1) most of the LPN jobs available anywhere will be long term care or MD offices

2) average pay for a new LPN is $15-$18 an hour. A little less in some areas, a little more in others

3) take what you can get, no one starts at the top.

4) most hospitals won't hire LPNs anymore because they want "magnet" status

5) TIME and EXPERIENCE will be your best friend. The reason I say this is if you "pay your dues" and work for a year you can sign with an agency like NurseFinders, Medical Staffing Network, or any number of agencies and make over $20 per hour.

6) pursue your RN as soon as you can.

This advice is coming from a very "seasoned" LPN. I may not know everything but after being in this profession for 18 years, working in half the states in the country I do know quite a bit. It would be helpful if you gave some idea of where you are located. Rural? Urban? City? how far are you willing to commute? What state are you in? These all play considerable roles in pay. A good example would be if you live in southern VA or northern NC you may only find a job for about $12 an hour but if you are in upstate NY(as an example) you may make $18 an hour. One more note. Many correctional companies will hire you and they pay well. I am currently pursuing my RN(finally after all these years) and found much support on this forum

I am having a difficult time finding a job. I graduated in November, passed the NCLEX the first week of January, and I finally have my first job interview today. There are tons of ads for jobs around here (Delaware) but everyone wants experience. I'm crossing my fingers for this one because I really need a job!

Good luck to you!

@baglady215 i just passed my boards this month and I too am looking for a job in delaware. You're right, everyone wants experience. where did you get an interview at. if you know any places that hires lpn's with NO experience then i would appreciate it