Starting your first nursing job can feel overwhelming: a whirlwind of new faces, routines and responsibilities, and the high-stakes reality of patient care. At Interior Health (IH), we recognize that the transition from student to professional nurse is one of the most pivotal—and challenging—moments in a nursing career.
The New Graduate Nurse Transition Program (NGNTP) helps bridge the gap between academic learning and clinical practice, building new nurses' confidence and skills as they step into their roles. That’s why our regional educators are here to support new grads every step of the way.
New nurses feel seen and supported
These dedicated professionals are the backbone of IH’s NGNTP, offering personalized, hands-on guidance across the Interior region. Their mission? To make sure new nurses feel seen, supported and set up for success from day one and throughout their entire first 18 months in their new role.
“Essentially, once the new grad nurses are hired, the regional educators take them under their wing for a full 18 months,” says Rachel Cross from the New Grad recruitment team. “They offer educational opportunities, one-to-one discussions, career planning and so much more. They’re a huge part of why so many new grad nurses choose IH.”
Building community, fostering confidence
When a new nurse joins IH—whether a Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPN), or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)—they’re paired from the start with a regional educator. These educators are nurses themselves and have walked the same path and understand the pressures of those early days. Their lived experiences help them provide not just practical advice, but also genuine empathy and encouragement.
IH’s approach goes far beyond orientation checklists—the program focuses on building community, fostering confidence and helping new nurses find their footing and future in the field.
Here’s what grads can expect once they’re hired:
- Initial welcome meeting: A one-on-one during orientation to get to know each other, answer questions and lay the foundation for a successful, supportive relationship
- Regular check-ins: From a quick hello on the unit to deeper conversations over coffee or Microsoft Teams, these check-ins offer a safe space to share how things are really going.
- Regular email updates: A digest of upcoming education, helpful resources and reminders curated just for new grads
- Tailored career guidance: Curious about a new unit? Not sure how to go casual or renew your licence? Regional educators help grads set goals, explore opportunities and even coordinate shadow shifts
- The New to Nursing Podcast: Hosted by IH, this unique series offers stories, tips and encouragement from those who’ve been there. It’s like a mentor in your earbuds
- The New Grad Nurse Community Compass: An exclusive SharePoint hub where grads can connect with peers, access local skills days and education tailored to them, find resources, and explore life in communities across the IH region
The right mix of structure and flexibility
What makes IH’s support model unique is its depth and heart. It’s not just about helping new nurses get through their first year—it’s about helping them feel confident, connected and part of something bigger. Regional educators build lasting relationships, offering the right mix of structure and flexibility, career development and emotional support.
This support made it a thousand times easier to build confidence and strengthen my skills as a new nurse. It provided a great foundation for me and, personally, I think it should always be required following graduation.
If you’re a new grad nurse wondering where to begin, know this: at Interior Health, you won’t be doing it alone. From day one, you’ll have someone by your side. Someone who’s been in your shoes, who understands the journey and who’s fully committed to your success now and in the future.
Learn more
- Explore the New Graduate Nurse (NGN) Transition Program
- Listen to the New to Nursing Podcast on:
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