Life is hectic as a new grad – there is so much new information to digest while you’re preparing for your exam, applying for your license, and finishing up clinical at the same time.
You want to start your nursing career but also want flexibility in your life.
Island Health has you covered. We know how exciting, but also how chaotic, the transition from student to nurse is, and we have programs and a support network in place to help make it seamless. Learn about our New Graduate Transition Program here: https://www.islandhealth.ca/careers/students/professional-practice/new-graduate-transition
Vancouver Island is a little piece of paradise nestled on the Westcoast of British Columbia. It is known for its breathtaking rainforests, beaches, mountains, lakes and rivers and year-round outdoor activities. With over 200 towns and cities, Vancouver Island makes everyone feel at home.
Nursing on Vancouver Island, as part of the Island Health team, brings its own set of unique opportunities. From large hospitals to small rural communities, nurses make a difference and feel a sense of belonging in their work environments too.
Olivia, a Registered Nurse living in Victoria shares:
"Actually, I fell in love with Victoria, BC on my way to Prince George. As soon as I stepped in the hallways of Victoria General Hospital, I said to myself I am coming back to work here. 18 months later I joined the team of the emergency department at the VGH. I am so lucky to be part of the ER team. We are all passionate about what we do. I have dedicated my career with Island Health since then. I always strive to be the best in everything I do and still fantasizing about becoming the CEO one day. Living in Vancouver Island is so amazing. People pay to come here. Here I get to play golf, go fishing, walk the beaches, and even bike to work all year round!" - Olivia S, Registered Nurse
Alison joined Island Health as a new grad and says:
“When I graduated, I fell in love with the wide array of opportunities available in Island Health. Not only have I been able to experience rural and urban nursing, but I’ve also been able to enjoy the gorgeous outdoors that Vancouver Island has to offer.
I spent my first year of work nursing at a remote site, and then I was able to take advantage of Island Health’s sponsored specialty nursing training. I found my home working in a small emergency department with a strong sense of community. I wouldn’t want to live or work anywhere else!” – Alison W, Registered Nurse, Island Health
If the location, activities, and community don’t say enough on their own, check out the incentives Island Health currently has for nurses!
Nurses wanting to work in rural and remote communities on Vancouver Island can qualify for the Rural & Remote Incentive, earning $10,000+ on top of their regular income! And there is now an incentive in place specifically designed for referrals of new grads that want to make the move from off-island to work at Island Health. Learn more about the New Grad Applicant Referral Incentive here: https://www.islandhealth.ca/sites/default/files/careers/documents/new-grad-rn-rpn-referral-incentive-program.pdf
After more than twenty years of national leadership in supporting nursing students and newly graduated nurses through professional role transition, Nursing the Future (NTF) is concluding its current operational chapter.
Since 2004, NTF has served as a vital bridge for new nurses, educators, and leaders navigating the vulnerable early months of practice. Through evidence-based programming, national partnerships, and a commitment to building a safe “cul-de-sac” for early-career nurses, NTF has supported thousands across Canada in cultivating connection, confidence, and professional identity.
We extend deep gratitude to our partners, including the Canadian Nurses Foundation, the Canadian Nurses Association, the Canadian Nursing Students Association, provincial ministries, healthcare institutions, and countless contributors whose belief in transition-to-practice support made this work possible.
While formal operations conclude, the scholarship, curriculum, intellectual property, and program infrastructure developed over two decades remain intact and available for strategic partnership and collaboration. For further dialogue on potential collaborations, please contact Dr. Duchscher directly: newgraduates@nursingthefuture.ca
We welcome conversations with ministries, health regions, academic institutions, and professional associations interested in advancing initiatives such as:
The mission of healthy and supported professional role transition remains urgent. The work continues, sustained through scholarship, partnership, and shared commitment to the future of Canadian nursing.
With enduring gratitude,
Dr. Judy Duchscher - Founder & CEO, Nursing the Future
Kathryn Corneau - Program Director, Nursing the Future
For our FULL letter of Gratitude CLICK HERE
