5 years away....what to do?

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Hello all, I need advice on my next steps to take. I graduated from my university in 2012 and failed the boards 3 times. I gave up on nursing and decided I was going to try something else. I went on working a regular job but I felt like something was missing and I needed to be in nursing. I found a review course called Rachel Allen NCLEX boot camp and signed up. I lived in MD and the course was in California and was 6 weeks long. I "moved" to CA to take the course, like quit my job and sold everything I owned. The course was great and I scheduled to test for the nclex shortly after the class was completed. I passed in November of 2016...(yayyyyy finally)...and I thought I was be able to get a job right away. But this is not the case.... What should I do? I'm currently residing in CA because I cannot leave my income to wait around in MD, but it seems all the new grad programs are scared of me since I haven't been in school for the last 5 years or at least taken a refresher course. I've been receiving call backs but they are usually confused as to why I'm trying to get into new grad if I graduated in 2012. How do I convey my lapse in time on my resume? How do I get into a position?What do I need to say when they call?Should I take the refresher course in MD? Should I move my license to CA and look here?Im sorry I wrote so much. I'm just confused and unsure ������������

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Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

Where do you want to live? California or Maryland?

How badly do you want a job? North Dakota may be looking for nurses -- would you be willing to work there? What about Washington State or Kansas or . . . .

After so long a gap, a refresher course may be necessary to getting hired.

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Specializes in ICU.

Washington state looking for RN's badly. Swedish hospital will pay for relocation etc.

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Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

Most places are going to be understandably suspicious if you have had no education in nursing since 5 years ago. A lot changes in five years and you are not seen (accurately most likely) as being up-to-date in your knowledge and skill set. Take a refresher course.

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

I'd list the course as further education after graduation, as well as creating a kickass cover letter to briefly explain your journey, and the steps you took to overcome your obstacles. Point out your tenacity and determination to get to your RN

Good luck

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