Will it hurt to wait to start working as a new grad?

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Hi Beth!

I wanted to know if a person finishing RN-BSN is still considered a new grad once they graduate? (NYC area) I am currently in an Associates program and planning to do RN-BSN directly after. I already have a bachelors from another major so after counting my credits, I would only take 1 more year to finish the BSN program. I would prefer to just get it out the way and start working after I get my BSN.

But would I still be considered a new grad and eligible for new grad orientation at that point since my license would be a year old by then? I also am interested in apply to student nurse externship programs but all of the ones in my area require you to be a BSN student. Would it hurt to apply as a ADN student?

Or should I just wait till I start the RN-BSN program to apply, and then work my way through my last year? A nurse externship is appealing to me because from what I've heard its hard for ADN to find nursing jobs in NYC, so I'm looking at it as a way to get a foot in the door at a competitive hospital that I could be employed at in the future. Thank you!

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear About to Graduate,

New York is a tough market for new-grad ADN nurses, and I applaud your trying to strategize. I'll give you some things to consider as you make your decision.

New-grad status

While each hospital has the flexibility to define "new-grad" status as they choose and can also make exceptions to their own rules, it is typically conferred on newly licensed RNs. The status remains valid for one year after passing the NCLEX. This period is the golden year because new-grad status offers eligibility for nursing residencies and extended orientation programs.

Most healthcare facilities and hospitals have separate onboarding processes for new graduate nurses and experienced nurses.

 Since you are pursuing your ADN and planning to take the NCLEX, you will not be considered a new grad once you complete your BSN program. You will either be an RN with experience if you work after taking the NCLEX or an RN without experience if you don't work after taking the NCLEX.

An RN with experience would not be eligible for new grad residencies and more extended orientation.

A one-year-old RN  without experience may or may not be eligible for new grad residencies and more extended orientation.

Again, each hospital sets its criteria and can make exceptions as they choose. 

Externships

Regarding student nurse externship programs, it's common for such programs to require BSN students, as hospitals often prioritize BSN-prepared nurses for these opportunities. They can be a valuable way to gain experience in a competitive hospital setting and potentially secure a position after graduation.

While you may not be eligible for these programs in your ADN program, you could consider applying for them once enrolled in your RN-BSN program and have a BSN student status.

However, you probably won't be eligible for a student externship if you already have your nursing license. They are designed for nursing students who are not yet licensed.

Generally, once you take the NCLEX, it's best to start working if possible.

In the meantime, gaining clinical experience and networking with healthcare professionals during your ADN program is a good idea. This experience can be valuable when you seek employment. Make contacts during your clinicals.

While it may be more challenging for ADN graduates to land nursing jobs in competitive areas like New York City, it's not impossible. You may have to settle for sub-acute to land your first job. Being enrolled in a BSN program may help your application.

Additionally, once you have your BSN and a year of experience as an RN, you'll have more opportunities available to you and be more competitive in the job market.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your goals and circumstances. Gaining experience and networking as much as possible during your educational journey can benefit your future nursing career.

Best wishes on your decision,

Nurse Beth

 

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