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. . .