When to apply?

Sour Lemon · Jan 7, 2017

I have been an LPN for 11 years. I am graduating from an ASN program this May. It's a mix of traditional and transition students like myself. My question is when do you guys think I should apply? If I apply now I feel like HR might get irritated for me wasting their time, but I don't want to miss out on opportunities as most of the traditional students are applying already.
To be honest I'm MISERABLE at my current LPN job so working as a nurse tech wouldn't be an issue to me, but since I'm an LPN most consider me to be overqualified. Any advice would be helpful.

That depends on the requirements for applicants. If you're applying for a new-grad posted position that starts in the future, you might be able to do so fairly early. Other positions may specify that you must have a license in hand to be considered. Look at some postings in your area and see what they're asking for.

NurseEmmy · Jan 8, 2017

Thank you. I was just so surprised to hear that so many were applying so early.

Wile E Coyote, ASN, RN · Jan 8, 2017

I agree with the first reply. Let what's out there steer your decision. Are these future positions at the same facility you work in now?

Lastly, know that *some* places take a dim view at nurses working in official positions below their qualifications, so an LPN in a tech position may not fly in every facility.

Xlorgguss · Jan 8, 2017

I graduate in May and already have my applications in to 2 out of the 3 hospitals I am applying to. Might not even apply to the third. There is a good 8-9 nursing schools within 50 or so miles of each other. I took the expression "the early bird gets the worm" literally. There is so much competition, I wanted to ensure my success.