Should I take this new grad opportunity?

Hi, I'm new to allnurses and I've read helpful comments from posts.

I'm a new grad and I've been given a job opportunity to work at the icu or ER. But I'd have to stay five years, and the pay would be below normal starting salary in soCal.

What are your guys opinions on this matter? Thank you for your advice in advanced.
Do you want to work in ER/ICU setting? If so, go for it! Just make sure you can handle that field for five years. You should be very proficient at your job by the time your five years is up, and that will make you very marketable for a new job. As far as the pay goes, I'm not from California, but from what I hear, new grads are lucky to even find a job, let along one in an area such as ER or ICU. I say go for it.
Thanks for your input! I was trying to weigh the pros vs cons... I'll update on what I choose to do.
I would not sign my life away for 5 years -- even for a wonderful job. That deal sounds pretty close to "indentured servitude." Be sure to explore what happens if you can't stay the full 5 years. What happens if you have to leave? or if you just need to leave for your mental health? Get all those details in writing and be sure you can live with them before you sign 5 years of your life away.
Thanks for your opinion!I forgot to mention that it's a no contact five year stay. And you brought up good questions that I should have answered. Thanks again!
Congrats on the offer. 5 years is a long time. That is the first I am hearing of such a long contract; usually 3 at the most (which is still long). I would definitely consider the pros & cons. What are the penalties for not keeping the contract? Have you been able to view any of the other nursing residency programs? I would probably compare & contrast with some others. You can check out onestopnursing list for other programs Nurse Residency | ONESTOPNURSINGGood luck
How long is the pay "below normal starting salary"? I would not take a job under those conditions. They would need to pay me a regular starting wage (whatever that would be in a particular area) and five years is too long. Those conditions seem unreasonable to me, I don't care what the specialty is. But then, that is JMO. You may think it's worth it considering your own situation. I understand hospitals want to compensate for the time and money they spend to train a nurse, but it is my personal opinion that some hospitals are taking things a bit too far...because they can.
thanks for your input! this is a verbal agreement contract and I still have to talk inquire about the kinks and wrinkles of the program. I have added couple of questions to ask due to the comments recevied from you guys. Thanks again!
Quote from EverlineHow long is the pay "below normal starting salary"? I would not take a job under those conditions. They would need to pay me a regular starting wage (whatever that would be in a particular area) and five years is too long. Those conditions seem unreasonable to me, I don't care what the specialty is. But then, that is JMO. You may think it's worth it considering your own situation. I understand hospitals want to compensate for the time and money they spend to train a nurse, but it is my personal opinion that some hospitals are taking things a bit too far...because they can.
i would look somewhere else, IF your pay is not adjust. when i was looking for employment (los angeles) there were more ICU/ER jobs available than med/surg (even for new graduates). i was able to land an ER position, prior to my current one. you're supposed to get "speciality" pay for ER, also. they are REALLY stiffing you at 29/hr.
I would go for it- no doubt. I'm an LVN in Los Angeles just licensed in February. Getting into any ICU/ER, even just a hospital... it's not easy. Take the opportunity and run with it. Most new grad LVN starting salary is around 16-25/hr. They say once you're in, you're in. Who knows, they might be able to transfer you to a different unit sooner than 5 years. And already being an employee, you have first priority... If you don't mind telling me what hospital? Feel free to message me!