After working in banking, switching careers at 30 was not an easy decision, but nursing was something I wanted to do with all of my heart.
It has been disheartening as a new graduate here in Denver. I attended a 16-month accelerated bachelor's nursing program for students with a degree in a different field. We were told that working during the program would be difficult given the schedule, but a few classmates who were already certified nursing assistants stayed at their jobs on a per diem basis. I now look back, and see I made a huge mistake.
I should have found a way to become a CNA or volunteer at a hospital during school.
Since I didn't work during school, I wanted to make sure my grades reflected my dedication to the profession. I graduated top of my class, magna cum laude with a 3.8 GPA, great letters of recommendation and strong references from my previous work history.
I have applied to every hospital from Pueblo to Fort Collins. I estimate I submitted 250 applications. Many are rejected within an hour of applying.
It's just absolutely crazy. It seems that the hospitals don't want to spend the time and money it takes to train the next generation of nurses.
I am very lucky to have interviewed at a hospital last week. In seven months this is my third interview.
I'm hoping I did well enough to earn a spot. That way the nightmare can end, and my professional career as a nurse can begin.
