I have to say the last 2 months have been the most unexpected and blessed months of my life (other than when I met and married my wonderful husband, of course!)
-I graduated from BYU College of Nursing on December 16, 2011 with a Bachelor Degree in Nursing and a minor in Gerontology.
-I studied for and passed my NCLEX (nurse licensing exam) in just 75 questions on February 2, 2012 and found out I passed on February 3, 2012!
Now, just to set the record straight, this test is not walk in the park. I spent much of the last 5 months studying for this test and, in the end, I had taken over 4000 practice questions in various subject areas like maternity, pediatrics, psych, pharmocology, health promotion, safety & infection control, physiological adaptations, management of care, and much more. I estimate to have studied over 100 hours along the way.
And now that I have passed and I officially have my license in hand, I have to say it was ALL WORTH IT! Who knew passing an exam could be SO fulfilling?! Now that I think about it, if I would have just "passed" a test while in school, I would have felt like I failed (as many of my classmates would agree). Now, "passing" is the best feeling in the world!
-I got a job in the Emergency Department at Timpanogos Regional Hospital with all the wonderful nurses and doctors I did my capstone with on Friday, February 10, 2012!!
Over the last month and I half, I have sent in over 60 job applications; most of which, were rejected on the spot. The job hunt has been THE MOST DAUNTING part about becoming a nurse. Who knew?! They say the economy needs nurses but apparently that is everywhere except Utah. I was distraught and put-out by the process and to tell you the truth, I contemplated getting a job at a department store just to "have a job" while searching for a nursing job.
Last week, I applied to a PRN (as needed) position at my capstone location, Timpanogos Regional Hospital. I definitely felt like I'd get an interview since I have so many connections with nurses and others there but I was still unsure since my self-esteem had really taken a hit after 60+ applications and only 1 interview up to that point.
Friday, February 10 my prayers were answered. Brett, the nurse manager at Timp, called me up and offered me the job on the spot! I owe all the nurses on my unit! They really fought for me and I couldn't be more grateful!!
I start work on February 21st! I am so excited!
Our Heavenly Father has truly blessed us throughout the last few months. We are so grateful!
-Amy Hawkins, RN BS
