The Value of an Externship

What is an externship? I know that’s a question many people start asking in the beginning of junior year. Older friends have just completed theirs. Is it mandatory? What is it? We’re here to answer your questions!

Read About the Personal Experience of a Summer Externship

Nicole Ciongoli	Michelle Bandigan	Kayla Jimenez	Erin Miley	Jennifer Sisco

The Down and Dirty of the Externship Process

The extern programs take place during the summer between your junior and senior year. You work side by side with a nurse and see what being a nurse is really like. There is only so much you can gain from your clinical rotations. I really cannot stress the importance of these paid positions. But how does one apply for an externship? Here’s the details.

During the beginning of your junior year, you should start looking into externship programs. The best place to find this opportunity is through various hospital’s website. Google externship and the hospital you would like to be employed with. Ask during your clinical rotations. You may have to search. This is not an easy process. Once you have all the information, you can start applying. Pay special attention to deadlines. Typically, you need to fill out an application, submit your official transcript, 2-4 letters of recommendation, and an essay. Make sure you allow ample time to receive your official transcript. It can take a couple of weeks. Similarly, tell your professors or employers in advance that you will need letters of recommendation. I like to tell them the due date is about a month before the actual due date. That way if they forget or if during the semester it gets hectic you will have a little extra time.

After you submit the application, you will be waiting for a call. It can get frustrating. Take a deep breath. Then you will receive a call and will schedule your interview. Try to get a good night sleep the night before. For your interview, dress professional. I cannot stress this enough. The externship coordinator takes notes. Unfortunately, you cannot really prepare for this interview. I was asked questions about plans to further my education, why you want to be a nurse, the area I want to specialize in and why, strengths and weaknesses in the clinical area, etc. Others have been asked clinical scenario questions. There is no telling what you will be asked. Make sure that you ask when the decisions will be made and when you should expect to hear something.

Now you wait for a call again. When you receive your acceptance call, celebrate. It is a big deal! You will have to take a physical for the hospital and might have to have blood work.

Now orientation begins. You will be oriented to the hospital and the role that you are expected to fulfill. During my orientation, I was taught to draw blood, do EKGs, and to take fingerstick BS. You will receive your schedule and will start on the unit. The day before your first day on the unit- try to relax. Go see a movie, go shopping, or hang out with friends. Try to get a good night sleep. Wake up feeling refreshed. There is nothing like your first 12 hours. Make sure you eat breakfast before your shift starts. Arrive early, find where you should put your belongings, and mentally prepare to start your day.

During your externship, take every opportunity presented. Ask to do and see new procedures, help everyone with a turn or a boost, offer to help other nurses. It will go a long way. When a nurse who is not your preceptor has something going on, they will call you in the room. It can only benefit you. The value of this experience is not just a summer of making money. It is in the comfort level that you now feel in the hospital. It is in the assessment skills that are honed. It is a tremendous value to your employer. Most externs are hired on the units where they spent that summer. The manager does not have to do as much when they hire you. All the nurses know you; you know the nurses, the unit and the types of patients. I cannot stress what this can mean for you. It is a great anxiety reducer.

I hope this little introduction to the world of externships helps you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact sna@felician.edu.