GUEST BLOG: Kristel's nursing FAQs

Happy Nurses Week, everyone! Are you a new nurse in America, or a nurse trying to decide whether you should come to the U.S.? Maybe this short FAQ will shed some light on becoming an internationally trained nurse in America.

Here are my nursing FAQs: internationally trained nurse edition!

Will people welcome me as a foreigner?

Being a foreign nurse should not be perceived as a setback. In my personal experience as a foreign nurse, I've worked with nurses who were from different parts of the world, but they were not made fun of or treated differently because of it.

As a foreigner, I've never experienced negative treatment in the workplace based on my difference. In a large majority of cases people welcomed foreign nurses and often asked questions about obvious differences. Keep in mind, if you are hired as a foreign nurse, you are already being welcomed!

Am I going to keep up with the way nursing is practiced in the U.S.?

It's very likely that nursing in America is different from your home country. Being unfamiliar with the U.S. way of practicing amplifies anxious thoughts about becoming a foreign nurse. To be honest, whether you will keep up with U.S. nursing practice depends on so many factors: your personality, the nursing specialty you work in, your schedule, and so on.

I would suggest something as simple as watching "day in the life" videos of U.S. nurses and putting yourself in their shoes. Obviously these videos do not show everything, but they can help you visualize what life could be.

Am I going to make a lot of money quickly?

This is a genuine question people ask because they sometimes get the impression that increased pay means wealth will accumulate. We should note, however, that the amount of money you make depends on which state you live in, if you are alone or with dependents, and what basic needs you have to pay for monthly.

It's important to stay strategic about money management even in the States, otherwise all those bills (rent, car note, groceries) and taxes accumulate quickly. Don't fall into the trap of getting too many credit cards that you may not be able to clear fast! It is possible that your monthly earnings will cover your expenses, but you might not have huge amounts to save in the beginning;however, as you find strategies to lower your bills, you can eventually save more.

Will I find a community there?

Homesickness is real and sometimes hits hard, so a good community is a true blessing. Generally speaking, living in bigger cities increases your chances to meet people from your country. If this is an important aspect for your well-being, you could begin to search the internet for specific communities that you could join when in the States. This could even guide you in choosing your preferred state of residence.

Check out more words of wisdom from Kristel at our blog. 

Ready to take your nursing career to the U.S.? Apply now.