For Liz M. and Hannah W., becoming registered nurses at UPMC came with a wealth of opportunity — some they might have expected, but also one they didn’t see coming: a tight-knit friendship.
Liz M. and Hannah W.’s story started as two young nurses looking to establish their careers and help open a new oncology unit at UPMC Memorial, but it quickly evolved into the story of two best friends and colleagues, working side-by-side, leading the unit and precepting new nurses into their roles.
Liz chose UPMC for the ample opportunities for growth. Shortly after completing her training, Liz was named a charge nurse, putting her in charge of the unit during her shifts – an experience she says she wouldn’t have gotten at another hospital, and one that helped her become a stronger nurse from the start. “I love UPMC. I feel really comfortable working here,” Liz said. “It’s a small hospital, but I love our patient population and I really, really enjoy it. Plus, I met my bestie.”
Photo 1: Liz and Hannah catching a local minor league baseball game. Photo 2: Hannah being recognized for an award, and Liz supporting her!
“I love UPMC. I feel really comfortable working here. It’s a small hospital, but I love our patient population and I really, really enjoy it. Plus,I met my bestie.”
Liz M., Registered Nurse, UPMC Memorial
Liz’s leadership became the foundation for her friendship with Hannah. As Hannah’s preceptor, Liz got to show her the ropes of UPMC Memorial, giving the two time to work alongside one another, which created a bond that spans well beyond the hospital doors.
“We do self-scheduling for the most part, so we usually try to schedule when the other is working,” Liz said. “We obviously hang out outside of work, too. And our significant others have become friends now, which is so cool to see.”
For Hannah, the opportunity to work alongside nurses who thrive on teamwork, as part of a unit that has personal meaning for her made all the difference when choosing UPMC. Hannah’s dad had colon cancer, and she stayed by his side through his treatment – an experience that influenced her decision to specialize in oncology.
Hannah and Liz with their furry friends!
Prior to joining UPMC Memorial, Hannah worked at a larger hospital in the region, but was craving more support and a smaller community hospital to settle into her niche in oncology, where she gets to know her patients and their families.
“I feel supported by management; I feel supported by my other nurses, by techs. I feel so much support, and just as an organization, I think UPMC runs so well,” she said. “I knew this was going to be a good fit, but then I got here and I was like, ‘This is the best fit!’ I tell my boss all the time, ‘I love it here so much!’”
“I feel supported by management; I feel supported by my other nurses, by techs. I feel so much support, and just as an organization, I think UPMC runs so well."
Hannah W., Staff Nurse, UPMC Memorial
Being a nurse at UPMC comes with a wealth of opportunities. Whether you’re seeking growth through a defined career ladder, premier benefits and access to award-winning care, work-life balance to enjoy time with those closest to you, or an energetic and encouraging team to make your shifts a breeze, a UPMC nursing career allows you to pursue what’s most important to you.
UPMC is now offering sign-on bonuses of up to $15,000 for candidates with at least two years of nursing experience. Take the next step in your career by exploring nursing opportunities below!
