The purpose of this study was to have a better understanding of the experiences of new nurse graduates in their work environment and the perceived stressors during their transition into the role of registered nurse. BACKGROUND The National Student Nurses' Association conducts an annual survey of all its members who are new graduates in the months following graduation. METHOD The study used a qualitative design on a sample of 1,456 responses. Participants provided typed-in responses. Responses were sorted and coded using constant comparison method. Three independent judges aggregated interpretations through consensus. RESULTS The themes that emerged were related to respondents' attempts to find balance and reflected the stress of the environment, expectations on self, and interactions with others that affected them. CONCLUSION New graduates describe their transitions to the role of new nurse in words that suggest that their workplace environments are extremely stressful.