It's not easy being green. I'm not talking about the color, either. I'm talking about being the rookie, the novice, the newbie, the beginner. You see, I can be an impatient person. And all this low rung on the ladder stuff -- well, it doesn't always sit well with my innate perfectionist. I want to know EVERTHING. And I want to know it NOW. That's ...

This is the third post in a series by first-time AANP conference attendees. Cheryll N. Simmons is a family nurse practitioner student at the University of Miami. At the completion of her program in August of 2009, she will continue her studies at UM, pursuing her doctorate of nursing practice degree. Here are Cheryll's impressions of the ...

When I think of how the economy is affecting NPs' decisions to pursue a doctor of nursing practice degree, two scenarios come immediately to mind: Someone who has recently lost a job might decide that now is the perfect time to go back to school. Alternatively, someone who has a job might be reluctant to leave it and pay those tuition charges. ...

This past month has certainly been jammed packed with changes. With change, comes excitement, but stress as well. First and foremost, I was offered and accepted a position in the Denver metro area (I currently live in Montana). It is a small family practice with a physician, a part-time PA, a part-time NP, and then me, who will be full-time. I ...

For new graduates this time of year brings mixed emotions. Saying goodbye to old friends and hello to new opportunities and new colleagues is not always easy. Transition and change can be stressful no matter what the given circumstances are. Learning to manage stress early in your career is important for both long lasting career success and ...

Well, the shoe is on the other foot. My mother-in-law fell and fractured her shoulder. She had polio as a child so she has one arm that is atrophied and unfortunately she fractured her shoulder on her ''good'' side. In addition, she is divorced, elderly and my husband is an only child -- so, she came to stay with us for recuperation. It's ...

The euphoria of passing my certification exam has been quickly replaced with anxiety and jumping through yet more ''real life'' hoops. Saying that I am overwhelmed would be an understatement. I wish somebody would have told me there would be days like these. At the risk of sounding like a whining brat, this is not what I had imagined. I don't ...

This has been a difficult month to say the least.  Many changes are taking place, both in my personal and professional lives.  Change is never easy for any of us, and usually seems to happen all at the same time!  For several reasons, I have decided to look for another job and consequently, will be leaving my NP program.  It was a very difficult ...

After graduation last year, I returned to the same physician practice where I have worked for the past 11 years. This has been very rewarding in many ways, because I instantly had 8 physicians and 1 NP that already knew me and trusted my judgment. They have been extremely supportive as I transitioned to the NP role and have provided learning ...

''Dear Career Coach, I have been offered my first NP job. I have to admit I am a little disappointed with the salary ($34.78/ hr). The average salary in my area is $85,000. My questions are: What would be a fair salary? Should I counter? The position is part-time without benefits. I have been in the medical field since 1985. I would appreciate any ...