When after graduation did you get a job?

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How long after graduating from nursing school did it take you to get a job? What year was this?

I'm graduating from nursing school in May. I'm leaving right after graduation for my wedding which will take place overseas. There is a possibility that I won't be back until sometime in August.

I'm worried that this is going to make it impossible for me to land a job. I'm going to pay for the NCLEX and just take it when I get back. It's not offered in the countries that I'm going to. But, my concern is, when should I be applying for jobs? Many of my friends have already started applying. Should I do so? I'm confused because I'm not sure if I can apply for "graduate nurse" positions, but then the other positions require my RN license. Should I apply for jobs and just write that I can start on September 1? But what if I do that and I don't pass the NCLEX the first time, then I won't be able to work that date and they'll fire me?

I'm so confused. I plan on speaking to one of my instructors later this week, but would REALLY like to hear from you all first?

I'm lost and I don't know what to do!

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Specializes in PICU, Sedation/Radiology, PACU.

I graduated in May of 2011. I started applying for jobs in March before graduation and received a contingent offer in April. I graduated and immediately applied for NCLEX. I took boards in June and started my job in July.

But since you will be out of the country, it will be very difficult for you to apply and interview for jobs. I would suggest enjoying your honeymoon time, taking NCLEX and when you get back and then applying. While some places are willing to hire before you have a license, these are few and far between. You stand a better shot of getting a job when you have your license and are able to go in for an interview. I don't think waiting that long will really hurt your chances at getting a job. Plenty of people wait until the summer is over to start looking for work, or it takes them awhile to pass the NCLEX.

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Specializes in ER/ICU/STICU.

Graduated May 2005 started working in June 05

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Specializes in NICU, Public Health.

Graduated Dec 2011, started working Jan 1st 2012. It couldn't hurt to apply for jobs now and just put that you can't start until Sept 1st. Don't worry about the nclex. You will do fine. With the job hunt being so difficult, don't wait until you pass to apply. You need to start now, because all the other new grads will be applying too.

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