What should I do to prepare to get a job as a new grad NICU nurse when I graduate in September?

Get your ACLS, and PALS

Try getting a position as a CNA or nurse clerk in the nicu you are trying to apply to. If you can complete your preceptorship in that same unit that would be a great way to network.

Find out if they are hiring new grads first. Many places won't hire new grads because of lack of experience.

Look for teaching hospitals or any hospital systems with well established, really great (NICU) nurse residency programs to help you. You want to avoid hospitals that are desperate for “warm bodies” - who’ll just throw you in.

Get into a postgrad training, HCA healthcare has a program called StaRN, it is for graduate nurses. It is in place to put new graduates in specialties settings

Best advice: do not assume your first job will be in the NICU. Get a job in the hospital you want, then wait for an opening in the NICU and apply for it.