Hi, I'm just starting with traveling.
I was just wondering if anyone could tell me which East coast states have the faster proccessing time to get licensed and about how long it would take. Also, which states are more new grad friendly.
Thank you!
Lindsey
I don't have licensure info, but I do have some advice if you are a new grad.
Choose an assignment in which you have other OTs working with you. If you are new to the field, you could really struggle in an assignment in which you have no other people to bounce clinical ideas off of or to brain storm difficult situations which are a fact of life in the current healthcare climate.
As a former regional director, I would never hire new grads as travelers because the lack of experience can be detrimental in a building without others to guide the new grad. As a therapist, I cringe at the thought of a new grad taking on some of the challenges I"ve seen that are easier for me to handle because I've been doing this for a long time.
Just a word of encouragement to work with a top notch recruiter who can help you choose a positive assignment where you will have the mentorship that you and every new grad needs!
Some of the quicker states would be CT (2 weeks), VA (1-2 weeks), and MA (1 month). These are also pretty good states for jobs. FL would be longest and most competitive for job opportunities. FL would also require a level 2 background check including fingerprinting (a real pain in the butt). Two other states that take a little longer but have a good amount of opportunities are MD and NJ. Most companies get a lot of OT positions in those two states. You’ll probably want to avoid NH, ME, NY, and VT. Licensing can also be quick but there will not be a lot of opportunities there.
Let me know what you need for licensing information and I can get it to you. Also feel free to ask more questions. I know most of the facilities on the east coast.
I agree with both of the previous posts from Tre and Jeremy. If you are a new graduate, let me know how I can help. My role is Student Outreach Coordinator so I work with students and new graduates in helping them find full time and travel positions that meet their needs. Let me know how I can help you. You can reach me at ssnook@aureusmedical.com. Thanks and good luck!
