Summer Up

Remember when you were 10 and mom and dad wouldn't let you open your Christmas gifts until the entire family was up, awake, and showered...oooooh the anticipation!

That’s exactly what I feel like with only 3 more weeks till summer.  Note to self if you will be attending nursing school here.  The 2nd semester is a much bigger bear than the 1st.  And from the second year students I've spoken with, the 3rd and 4th semesters are even bigger yet.  It’s cool though.  It’s more of a challenge than when I tried to drink a gallon of milk in an hour...and I’m a lactard.  Ugh. 

So as the summer approaches, my energies are focused on finding hospital work as an intern/extern/CNA/tech in the land of John Elway, Coors Light and mile-highness...Denver.  What is the difference between an extern, intern, CNA, and tech?  Well, come to find out it depends on the institution you're asking.  There isn't a standard definition of skills for what a student does at one hospital verses another.  Slightly frustrating, majorly confusing.  Phlebotomy, IV's, vitals...you never know what you're going to get. 

Now I must take this opportunity to tip my hat and brag about Hopkins Alumni.  As I am in hot pursuit of work out in Denver, I'm very aware that it is often not what you know, but who you know that lands you a job in this day and age.  So I sent a few emails out to Hopkins Alum in the greater Denver area and they have been amazingly helpful in their responses.  Some send advice.  Some send contacts.  Some even send an invite to stay at their house and offer a ride to and from the airport.  It really is a wonderful community to be associated with.  Fingers crossed, I will have employment in Denver soon enough!