Contracts are pretty tough to get out of usually. It doesn't matter if you started working or not...if you signed the contract, you're in. I've heard some horror stories about nurses having to pay cancellation fees, and getting sent to collections. You may be able to work out a deal with your company on the fee, but it's almost a guaratee that there will be some sort of penalty...especially at a big company like AMN (where personal service is definitely lacking). Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. But if the opportunity of a lifetime really is that...it'll be worth doing whatever you have to do to get out of the contract.

Some thoughts...

A contract is your word, what is it worth?

A bird in the hand...