Carmstrong,
It's easier then you think. I actually did both. As for getting a job, well I actually had a bit of inside help from my friend who was already working there. He told me who to talk to and gave me a little verbal recommendation. However, you can still get in. I got into the radiology dept at my local hopital as a clerk. Besides the paperwork that I do, I am able to witness various procedures talk to every doctor imaginalbe, watch O.R. procedures, access to the E.R., transport patients, etc..
So how do you do it? First off, every hospital has a Human Resources Dept. Start there. Fill out the application (type it) and give them a little paragraph personal statement (cover letter). Then check the job opening list. At our hospital it gives contact numbers to the different supervisors. Get another couple applications together and go to each one personally. Some of them will shrug you off and tell you to go through human resources, however, others will be impressed by your go-getter attitude. Finally, you just have to pester the ones who are receptive to you. I pestered my current boss every week then every other week for about 5 months. They love perserverence. Hopefully you'll get in quicker then that.
Volunteer? Easy. Just go to the volunteer dept. at any hospital, tell them what you want to do, fill out an app, go to a quick interview and your set. Took about 2 weeks for me. I just went in and signed up. It's that easy! I signed up for the Emergency room. It's a great way to see alot of trauma cases and other less critical cases.
What are you tentatively looking at?
By the way, paid hospital work is no less important than volunteer hospital work. However, I think every applicant should have volunteer experiences. Go with what fits your schedual and your financial situation. Start by volunteering, then after time get to know the people and then ask for a job. That's how my buddy did it. Well I hope this helps,
DocGibby
[This message has been edited by DocGibby (edited October 14, 1999).]
