Recent nursing school graduate needs advice about career move from SC to CA?
Asked by Ms. Johnson
I have just recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina and am awaiting to receive my authorization to test (ATT) to take the NCLEX-RN. My dad's family is from California and have mentioned the idea of beginning my career out west. This is something I wish to do for at least the first two years of my career. However, I am unsure whether or not I should apply to hospitals within the LA area without the traditional face-to-face interview, and I'm afraid not doing so will lessen my chances of becoming a future employee (all job offers I received in both North and South Carolina required an interview). Or, is it better to become licensed in SC and then apply? Just to mention, I thought it would be easier to apply for the Californian licensure upon moving since it's not a Compact State. Lastly, is working nights the best shift for recent grads?

Best Answer:
I would first test in CA rather than SC, lots of hsopitals out here and plenty of recruiters looking for you. I would post my resume on the net stating that you are relocating to CA and you will be contacted within days of posting. I suggest you find out exactly where you are moving and which hospitals are close to there. You can call into a hospital and and speak to their HR department and ask what their turnover rates are, and the other necessary questions such as relocation help. The traffic here sucks so choose close to your home. Get your testing done first and then the offers should come in pretty quick and you will definetly have to interview with the companies at least three times in some cases. I was a nurse recruiter previsouly and you are worht money so remember if you use one that you can lose out on relocation and other small benefits because of the fees recruiters charge. Good Luck and repost if you need more info.

You might get stuck with the night shift if you're low man on the totem pole and that's considered the "undesired" shift. I'd make the move right away and go for the jobs out in CA. Otherwise you might never go. Just be prepared for sticker shock on everything. Expensive to live out in LA-LA land. If they like you they might fly you out for an interview. You could also ask your relatives if they'd "put you up" for a bit while you did a job search in person.
Answered by sporregar