Looking back to my 2010 experience...

2011 is almost here, and that means 2010 will say goodbye to all of us in a few days. This year has been a tough year for me especially in terms of career seeking. First I joined the Basic Safety Course of Magsaysay Training Center and fortunately I passed it and had my seaman's book (SIRB) and hoped that I could get a seabased job, I was once shortlisted as a Cruise Nurse but unfortunately I didn't get the job. I also tried applying directly to Carnival Cruise Line, I almost got the job but when the Chief Nurse evaluated my exam and credentials, she told me that she cannot accept me for the meantime, since I still lack hospital experience and ACLS certification. It was very painful for me to hear that, but it didn't pulled me down, instead I pursue to get certified in ACLS and renewed my other certifications. I was so happy when I passed the ACLS training in Philippine Heart Center (PHC). It was no joke when I joined the training, I have to identify ECG readings in just 3 days and learn the management of the abnormal ECG for just 3 days too and I have to undergo a written and skills exam of the doctors of the PHC.

After my training, since I still don't have a job offer, I went back to render my duties in PRC-ERU as an ambulance nurse. It was still nice of them to accept me back. There are also new set of volunteers for the department and I was one of the trusted personnel to orient and train them regarding the duties in the office and especially when there's emergency response. It was very tiring and frustrating for me, because for the first few months it's like they're not that really interested on the things we are doing in the ERU, but my efforts and my co-seniors got paid back. It was like God's answered prayers when I saw them joining our weekly exercises and showing us that they can be also reliable during our responses. I hope it will continue till next year. :)

Another great opportunity also arrived to me this year, it was when I was given a chance to really pursue my NCLEX-RN application. There was a family member abroad who was working on a hospital and the employer of the hospital is planning to hire nurses here in the Philippines, so me and my parents decided that I take the exam as soon as possible and hopefully by next year I could really start my review... ;)

This year was also a lucky year for my love life. Me and my boyfriend celebrated our first year anniversary and finally I was able to introduce him to my family and to my surprise they gave him a warm welcome. Until now, I still can't believe I have a best friend who's always there to support me and love me for who I am... God is so kind for giving me a nice, loving and supportive family and boyfriend!!!