Where to start as a GN in Norfolk, VA?

U.S.A. Virginia

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Hi, I'd posted previously but no one answered me. Thus, I'm trying again. I'm moving to Norfolk, VA in two weeks. Just graduated from a nursing school, have not yet taken NCLEX. I'll be looking for a job when getting there. My question is where should I start as a GN. I'm clueless yet nervous and scared at the same time. It's like stepping into the world of unknown. Please anyone, if you can help or any advice, suggestions at all? Thanks guys!

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

The job market is really tight in Norfolk and you might have to pass NCLEX before anyone will consider hiring you. There are several hospitals in the area, each with its own specialties. So, you have to start with knowing what type of nursing you want to do. Also what geographic area will work well for you? It's a big area and you may want to consider your commute as you look at the various hospitals.

So ... what are you looking for in an employer? What type of clinical setting? etc.

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Hi, thanks for your respond. I'm looking mainly at the Chesapeake, VA beach, and Norfolk area. I'm looking to get into Med-Surg first before getting into anything else. According to you that doesn't sound too good :(

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

Speaking as a fellow new graduate looking for work...it definitely isn't too good. There's several NS schools in the area that just graduated classes in May and July, so there's a ton of new grads about looking for work.

Most hospitals and employers here will not consider hiring you without the NCLEX under your belt. But you can--and definitely should!--start applying to jobs that you see in the newspaper or on the websites. Get yourself in their systems...just don't be surprised if some tell you, "thanks, but call us back when you pass the boards" before you get any further in the application process.

Also, consider looking at non-hospital jobs in the area. Some of my classmates have had better luck getting into areas such as SNF, LTC and dialysis, than they have getting into hospitals--at least they're in somewhere and getting skills and experience.

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Specializes in Telemetry.

I'm also a new graduate having just passed the boards last month. The job market in the VA/DC area is horrible especially for new graduates. They're wanting more experienced nurses. If you had a choice as to where to relocate...I would not make VA your first choice. Go to Texas! I hear they have opportunities there

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