Are you halfway through your nursing and midwifery studies? That’s a huge milestone – congratulations! That also means your new grad year is approaching!
The Public Sector New Graduate program (often called “Grad Start”) opens applications in June. It may sound ages away, but trust us, it will come around faster than you think.
You may have heard that the process can get overwhelming and competitive. And while it can feel that way, the truth is, if you start prepping now, you’ll be in a much stronger position when the time comes around.
We know you’re probably juggling a lot on your plate right now: placement, assignments, maybe even part-time work. But here are a few small tips that you can take now that will make a big difference later:
Start to reflect on your placement experiences
Think about the clinical situations that you’ve encountered so far. Can you link any of them to the NSW Health CORE values of Collaboration, Openness, Respect, and Empowerment? If so, remember to write them down! They will be useful when it comes time to fill in your grad application or prepare for interviews.
Build a good relationship with your clinical supervisors
You’ll need strong references for your application, so make sure you stay in touch with your facilitators or preceptors, request their permission to use their details, and let them know in advance when you start applying.
Research local (and not-so-local) health facilities
Don’t just wait for Grad Start, explore all your options! Look into private hospitals, aged care centres, and community health services, as they may have new grad programs or even direct entry roles. If you’ve developed an interest and passion in a specialty, check what facilities offer that service in and around your area.
Consider rural and remote opportunities
Programs such as the rural metro exchange will allow you to split your time between metro and regional placements, which is a fantastic way for you to broaden your experience. Each participating hospital runs it a bit differently, so here are a few examples to check out:
Get familiar with the new grad timeline
Now: reflect, research, and compile your experience and resume
Early in your final year: finalise references, shortlist various programs
Mid-year (usually around June): Grad Start applications will open.
Following months (until around November): Interviews and offers will roll out over a few months.
Join your union
If you’re already a member of NSWNMA, you’ve got access to advice, support, and resources tailored to students and new grads.
Not a member yet? Sign up here!
Remember, Grad Start isn’t the only path.
While it does get a lot of attention, it’s just one of many ways to kickstart your nursing or midwifery career. There are plenty of other entry points worth exploring, so keep that in mind while you consider all your options!
In the meantime, keep your focus on your studies – your academic and clinical performance still play a big role in shaping your next chapter.
You’re almost there, and you’ve got this!