New Beginnings

     Four years ago, my dream of being a nurse was just beginning. After starting college and getting accepted into the nursing program, I knew my life would never be the same. Long hours of studying and work finally paid off after four fast, hard years of nursing school. I never thought I would see the day to graduating with a Bacherlor's of Science in Nursing Degree, but I did it! My dream job was to work in a nursery with newborns, either in the ICU or in a well-baby nursery.

     Just when I thought my goals were complete, my goals then shifted to finding a job - which was much harder than anticipated. I was told by many people I would have no problem finding a job as a nurse once I graduated. Little did I know, I would become so frustrated because hospitals were not hiring like they used to. People did not understand when I told them I was having trouble in the job search. They just didn't get that although there is a nursing shortage, hospitals do not have the money to hire millions of nurses! Even more frustration! I applied, applied, ate, slept, applied, applied, ate, slept, and applied some more! I even applied for jobs I didn't really want, but knew I might have to do in order to get my foot in the door.

     FINALLY, I got a call for a Medical-Oncology nursing position at a great hospital. Medical-Oncology you might ask..That was not in the plans....not in the plans at all. I am supposed to be welcoming babies into the world, not seeing people on their way out! When the recruiter said what floor it was on, my jaw just dropped and said "I'm sorry could you repeat that?" Out of all these jobs I applied for, I get a call from a cancer floor where my Granny was hospitalized last year?! How weird and unexpectable at the same time. I wondered if it was a sign...I wondered if this was my chance - at healing my grief, at a job, at helping others through something I have been through...I wondered if I should just give it a shot.

     So, I interviewed, got the offer, and gladly accepted the position. I started in June, took the NCLEX (nursing boards) a month later - and passed I might add, and now I am officially a Registered Nurse (RN)! I longed for this day when I would no longer have to wear tech scrubs; I can wear nursing color with pride. I dreamed of the day when I would be able to sign my name with RN behind it. I earned this day to feel proud I am now an RN! I am excited to finally begin my career. I am excited to help patients with their grueling battles of cancer. And althought it was not in the plans, I am excited to begin my journey as an Oncology Nurse.

Thanks to my friends and family for supporting me throughout nursing school. I wouldn't be where I am today without you guys!

I will be blogging about my adventures as a new grad oncology nurse so keep your eye out for new posts! I'm new to the whole blogging thing, so if anyone has any tips, let me know!