Q: I am a student and I will be graduating on Dec. 1 and taking my NCLEX the same month. I am interested in getting feedback on where I should start and what is best for a nursing career. I am interested in women's health, but I would like to pursue my interest in medical surgical to further my education. What are my options, and what should I be doing to get an edge on getting hired at a facility where I would want to work?

- Terri Heckel

A: Most new nurses secure their first job on a medical surgical floor in an acute care hospital. One year of medical surgical experience allows new nurses to develop a strong foundation for their future nursing career. However, working in a medical surgical setting is not mandatory. If your passion is women's health, you can pursue employment within the women's health specialty.   Many new graduates are choosing to forego medical surgical experience for the opportunity to begin their career in a specific specialty.

The most important component of starting your career as a new nurse is to choose an environment that will nurture and support you as you transition from student nurse to professional nurse. Finding an environment that closely fits your passion and personality will decrease stress during your transition.

Take some time to brainstorm the pros and cons of working in the women's health specialty versus working in a medical surgical unit. Once you determine the option that meets your personal and professional desires, apply for all open nursing technician positions. New nurses employed in medical surgical and specialty settings as technicians often have an edge over the competition when open registered nurse positions arise.

Enjoy your journey as a new nurse. You have chosen a wonderful and incredibly rewarding career, regardless of the specialty to choose!

Kelley Strout is a wellness educator at Martin's Point Healthcare, Portland, ME.

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