As a healthcare traveler, your career opens doors to endless opportunities for exploration, growth, and adventure. Now’s the perfect time to sit down, take a breath, and map out your professional bucket list for 2025. Let us help you craft a roadmap to make this your best year yet, filled with meaningful milestones, enriching experiences, and personal growth. Whether you're chasing new state licenses, planning a road trip between assignments, or exploring new hobbies, this list is your guide to thriving in the upcoming year.
Take your career on the road—literally—by working in a set number of unique states in 2025. Each state brings its own healthcare challenges, patient demographics, and medical technologies, offering a chance to broaden your skill set while enjoying diverse environments.
Why It’s Worth It: Whether it’s delivering top-notch care in a bustling urban hospital or embracing the slower pace of a rural clinic, working in different states helps you build adaptability and enhances your resume. Imagine enjoying the lush landscapes of Oregon in the spring, the coastal beauty of Maine in the summer, and the snowy peaks of Colorado in winter—all while advancing your career.
Expand your career potential by obtaining licenses in new states. Having multiple state licenses under your belt unlocks access to higher-paying contracts and more options for desirable locations.
How to Get Started: Many states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), streamlining the process for RNs. Allied health professionals can take advantage of state licensing resources and programs designed to simplify the process of expanding their credentials to new regions. Consult your recruiter to map out your target states and start early—it’s an investment in your future freedom.
Pro Tip: Consider states with high-demand positions where healthcare professionals often receive premium pay for their expertise.
Why wait for a vacation to see the country when you can make the journey part of your adventure? Use the time between assignments to embark on a cross-country road trip. Plan a route that lets you explore hidden gems, visit iconic landmarks, and soak in breathtaking scenery.
Why It’s Special: Traveling from state to state by car allows you to create unforgettable memories. Imagine driving the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping for photos at the Grand Canyon, or enjoying a food tour through the Midwest. Plus, you’ll arrive at your next assignment with stories to tell and a refreshed spirit.
Tips for the Road: Bring a travel journal to document your experiences and set aside time for impromptu detours—you never know what treasure you might stumble upon!
Commit to professional growth by attending at least one healthcare conference in 2025. Events like TravCon or specialty-focused gatherings such as ASCLS (lab professionals) or APTA CSM (physical therapists) are not only educational but also deeply inspiring.
Benefits Beyond Learning: Conferences provide networking opportunities that can lead to mentorships, collaborations, or even your next assignment. You’ll also have the chance to discover the latest technologies and trends in healthcare while meeting like-minded professionals who share your passion.
Bonus: Many conferences are held in exciting destinations, offering a mix of work and play. For example, you could explore Las Vegas while attending TravCon or enjoy the vibrant culture of Chicago during the ASCP Annual Meeting.
While travel is exciting, taking intentional breaks to rest and recharge is just as important. Plan for a set amount of staycations throughout the year—time dedicated to self-care, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Why It Matters: Burnout is a real concern in healthcare, and staycations are a low-effort way to reset. Use the time to catch up on sleep, try a new recipe, or simply binge-watch your favorite shows guilt-free.
Diversify your life by exploring a new hobby or interest that has nothing to do with work. Whether it’s learning to play an instrument, diving into photography, or mastering a new cooking style, hobbies can enrich your life in unexpected ways.
Why It’s Beneficial: Having a creative outlet helps you de-stress, improves mental health, and gives you something to look forward to outside of your assignments. Bonus: Many hobbies can be mobile, allowing you to practice and explore them wherever your travels take you.
Make 2025 your year to work smarter, grow stronger, and live more fully. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or earning new state licenses, this bucket list is your guide to thriving as a healthcare traveler.
Ready to take on the challenge? Explore our job opportunities today and start making your bucket list dreams a reality!