New Grads Need Not Apply. . .

First things first!  I PASSED MY BOARDS!!!!! I took the boards on 2/20 at 8am, got my quick results at around 9:30 Saturday morning, and by Monday afternoon I had a brandy spankin' new registered nurse's license number!  So exciting and yet I find myself feeling frustrated. The job search is going a little different than I expected.  So many agencies are posting jobs that specifically say "We are sorry but we are not accepting new grad nurses at this time."  It totally sucks!  Could you imagine if instead it said "We are not accepting latin american candidates at this time."  Is is not discrimination to refuse to even  interview a new grad??  Some hospitals go so far as to set up "barbed wire" by asking right up front if you have the required experience - if you answer "No" to the question they won't even allow you fill out the online application!  No matter the experience of a new employee, it is still necessary to train them in the policies and procedures of the agency.  Why not choose an enthusiastic new grad who has no bad habits over a cranky experienced nurse who is jaded and set in his/her ways?  After spending several hours searching job sites today, I am throwing in the towel (just for today).  I am feeling very frustrated, disappointed, and a little bit defeated.

I know that God has a plan for me, and I am all about putting up a good fight - I just wish that SOMETHING positive would happen in the way of a job.  Even just one interview to know someone is remotely interested in me.  I am so frustrated by this new online application process.  There is no way to represent yourself as an individual - you are just a number on HR rep's computer screen.  If only they could meet me and see what they are missing. . .

My Boards are in Less Than 48 Hours...

I am taking a test in less than 24 hours that determines my future as a nurse.  Funny thing is, I am calm about the test. . . but I am freaking out about the fact that I am so calm.  What is wrong with me?  I know I know everything I need to know for this test.  I have been learning and studying for it for the past 3.5 years.  I am only freaking out because I am afraid of my confidence in myself.  What if I am wrong?  What if I don't know what I am doing?  I never thought I would lust after 2 letters, but having those letters "RN" after my name is fulfilling a dream that I have had for way too long.  I'm playing head games with myself and it all seems so silly.

It's a snowy day, I have homemade chicken soup simmering for dinner, my kids are home on February break.  All is right with the world, except that test that looms on Thursday.  I can't wait until it is behind me and I can forge ahead into the insane professional world of nursing.

For now I guess I will just be calm, and freak out about it.