Final answer:
The new graduate is in the entry stage of professional development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The new graduate who began their nursing career 6 months ago and completed orientation 3 months ago is in the Entry stage of professional development.
The entry stage is characterized by new graduates who are gaining experience and knowledge in their chosen profession. During this stage, they are still learning and developing their skills.
As the graduate gains more experience and expertise, they will progress through the stages of professional development, such as experimentation, mastery, and possibly disengagement later in their career.