Landing your first nursing job sounds straightforward after graduation—but for many new grads, the reality is far more difficult. In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, host Ann [BG1][CD2]sits down with Stella Leiken, a recent MSN graduate from the University of San Diego's Master's Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN), to talk honestly about what it's really like to enter the nursing workforce for the first time.
Stella shares her journey from a psychology degree at UC Santa Barbara to an accelerated MEPN program, completing 192 hours of hands-on NICU preceptorship, and preparing to take the NCLEX. But the conversation quickly turns to something many nursing programs don't prepare you for: the search for that first nursing job.
Despite an MSN, a strong clinical record, and glowing recommendations, Stella applied to nearly every NICU in California and was denied by all of them. She opens up about the emotional toll of repeated rejection, the nursing shortage paradox that leaves new grads competing fiercely for a shrinking number of residency spots, and why she made the decision to look out of state rather than settle for a specialty she didn't want.
Her story is raw, honest, and relevant for any new grad nurse navigating today's competitive job market.
Key Takeaways
Don't settle for the wrong specialty. Taking a job in a unit you don't want just to get hired can make transitioning into your dream specialty later even harder.
Start applying before you graduate. Some new grad residency programs close months before graduation. Others open applications for only 24 hours with no public notice.
Networking matters. Stella secured her NICU preceptorship because she made a strong impression during her leadership rotation. Connections can open doors that applications alone cannot.
Broaden your geographic search. If your local market is oversaturated, looking out of state can unlock opportunities and help you grow in unexpected ways.
Protect your confidence. Rejection after rejection takes a real toll. Staying focused on your goal and leaning on your support system can make all the differenceChapters
00:00 – Introduction and why this episode is different
01:49 – Stella's background: from UCSB psychology to the USD MEPN program
03:08 – MEPN vs. ABSN: understanding the pathways into nursing
04:25 – The three-week boot camp that kicked off her program
07:54 – How preceptorships work and why specialty selection is so competitive
09:22 – NICU placement and the power of networking for new grad nurses
11:47 – NCLEX prep: how Kaplan and school support set Stella up for success
15:26 – The new grad job hunt begins, and why the timeline catches many off guard
18:37 – The nursing shortage paradox: high demand, fierce competition
19:03 – Applying to every NICU in California and facing rejection
21:10 – Looking out of state: Nashville, Georgia, Colorado, and beyond
26:43 – The emotional reality of repeated rejection
30:08 – Stella's advice: stay confident, don't settle, and go where the opportunity is
35:36 – Closing thoughts and words of encouragement for new grad nursesMeet Our Guest, Stella Leiken
Stella Leiken is a recent MSN graduate from the University of San Diego's Master's Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN). She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from UC Santa Barbara before working in a private ophthalmology practice, an experience that confirmed nursing as her true calling. Through her MEPN program, Stella completed 192 hours of NICU clinical preceptorship across two semesters, gaining hands-on experience caring for critically ill infants. She is preparing to take the NCLEX and is actively searching for her first nursing role.
Connect With UsIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.
About Ann
Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.
Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05
Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at [email protected]
Episode Sponsor:
We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.
Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!
Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today!
Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program.
Join Our Other Nursing Communities:
- YouTube
- Instagram
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
- LinkedIn
- Facebook
Powered by AMN Healthcare
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
