Graduating Students

WORKING FOR BON SECOURS

Because of our shared values and the special relationships built during clinical classes, the majority of our students seek jobs with Bon Secours.  

The Talent Acquisition team of Bon Secours Mercy Health will often host Hiring Events designed to connect graduating students with jobs within our hospitals.  

Of course, you can approach your unit director where you work or have Clinical and request an interview as well.

When you are ready to begin your job search, apply to jobs with Bon Secours at: careers.bonsecours.com/. For Nursing students, Talent Acquisition prefers that you apply directly to the New Graduate RN vacancy.

A nice benefits package is offered to Bon Secours employees, including health, life and dental insurance, paid time off and gym discounts. Loan repayment is also offered to graduates of our program who accept their first job with Bon Secours (limitations apply).

SEARCHING OUTSIDE OF CENTRAL VIRGINIA

Are you relocating? Nursing students can check out the Long Distance Job Search Information. Radiology and DMS students, please contact Blakeney_Hartka@bshsi.org for tips and strategies for applying outside of the local area. She can help you research your options as well!

Remember to educate the employer about your program - as well as telling them about yourself. Our college may not be well-known outside of this region. You can educate your prospective new employer in your interview and cover letter.

A few details to know and share:
Your clinical training was rigorous and extensive; on average, by graduation our students accumulate more than 600 hours for Nursing students and 900 hours for Imaging students.

You developed skills in assessments, care plans, electronic charting, and various procedures.  If you feel your skills are particularly strong in some area, this is the chance to say so.
 
​Don't assume all new graduates have your level of skill. Our graduates consistently report they were more prepared and confident than peers from other programs.

Transcripts:
If your new employer asks for an official college transcript, you can request one by following the link to Parchment: https://www.schs.edu/alumni/transcript-request

REMEMBER THAT A JOB OFFER INCLUDES COMPENSATION PLUS BENEFITS.

What to ask the recruiter/Human Resources?

• Questions about pay
• Benefits (like PTO, health insurance...)
• A relocation package (if you are moving)
• Loan repayment programs
• Reimbursement for exams

What to ask the Hiring Manager?

• Orientation & training
• Starting dates
• Shifts/Holidays
• Advancement opportunities, including the Clinical Ladder and certification

SHOULD I ACCEPT THIS JOB?

There are many things to consider as you weigh a job offer.  Learn as much as you can:

• Ask classmates who may have worked on the unit to give you their insights
• Ask your faculty 
• Ask the Career Advisor about alumni who have worked in that hospital.
• Ask to "shadow" on the unit for a few hours, and make your own assessment of the teamwork, culture, pace and patient population.​
• Make a list of pro's and con's - and be honest with yourself.
• Discuss this important decision with friends and family members you trust. 
• Think seriously about the shift and commute.

​Remember, you are only deciding where to begin your career. You can change roles as your interests and career goals evolve.

Finally, trust YOURSELF. You've made good decisions in the past. You'll make a good decision now.