young spring chickens or career changers?

[Jmiami]

Given the choice between a fresh early twenties new grad and a late thirties new grad, which do you think an employer would hire? For arguments sake, lets say that they are equally good interviews and students in school. The younger applicant would have more years (potentially) to offer the facility, while the older applicant would have maturity and stability that the younger may not have (not saying that all younger applicants lack maturity or stability). Who would you hire?

[Jmiami]

well said everyone - very interesting discussion! Here's some more food for thought...what are qualities that hiring managers would look for in an ideal candidate (other than the obvious skill and experience in nursing)? What are things that you think set others ahead of the pack?