Georgetown or Pittsburgh

tumpler44 · Feb 25, 2005

No I didn't get in. I think they were looking for more local type people. One of the first years I talked to said that Sacred Heart hired all of the graduates from the last graduating year. I think since their program is so small it is in their best interest to admit people who will stay in the area after graduation.

JJRN · Feb 25, 2005

Tumpler...please let us know what you decide for school.

royalkeister · Feb 25, 2005

I understand JJRN's sediments about Pitt. I'm a native a Spokane, WA (go zags) and have worked in various cities in the west and now I'm in the east. UPMC can be very impersonal, seeing you're one of 35,000 employees. And they do have a bit of a monopoly if you exclude Mercy, West Penn, and AGH. However, I did work at UPMC's flagship hospital in the MICU and had an excellent experience. The communication was wonderful between RNs, MDs, RTs, etc. But I can't say that was the same for all the units. I am aware of conflicts on other units. As for the specific program at Pitt, I've known people who were very satisfied with the program, but some have also said that you must "sell your soul" to the program while in it. Some are bothered by it some aren't. We all must dedicate a huge portion of our time and effort no matter where we go. Pitt does like to boast about their rankings and tell you how great they are. I don't understand how or why they select some people, its kind of strange. "Rumor" says JOd "hand picks" who he wants in or out. I don't know how much truth there is to that. Although UPMC does have a rep for being impersonal and Pitt's program feels they're the worlds greatest, I still think the eduation you get there is excellent. I think no matter where you go, its what you make of it. I loved the burgh as a town and the people there are down to earth and friendly. You can get a great variety of experiences through the program there and come out prepared to take on the world. But if you have a choice between a couple of schools, go where you think your personality and goals fit best. I was accepted at Pitt and LaRoche, but felt more comfortable elsewhere with faculty and with what I wanted to accomplish. I know you'll make the right choice no matter where you go. I don't know a thing about Georgetown regetably. Good luck. Go Steelers.

LydiaNN · Feb 25, 2005

I understand JJRN's sediments about Pitt. I'm a native a Spokane, WA (go zags) and have worked in various cities in the west and now I'm in the east. UPMC can be very impersonal, seeing you're one of 35,000 employees. And they do have a bit of a monopoly if you exclude Mercy, West Penn, and AGH. However, I did work at UPMC's flagship hospital in the MICU and had an excellent experience. The communication was wonderful between RNs, MDs, RTs, etc. But I can't say that was the same for all the units. I am aware of conflicts on other units. As for the specific program at Pitt, I've known people who were very satisfied with the program, but some have also said that you must "sell your soul" to the program while in it. Some are bothered by it some aren't. We all must dedicate a huge portion of our time and effort no matter where we go. Pitt does like to boast about their rankings and tell you how great they are. I don't understand how or why they select some people, its kind of strange. "Rumor" says JOd "hand picks" who he wants in or out. I don't know how much truth there is to that. Although UPMC does have a rep for being impersonal and Pitt's program feels they're the worlds greatest, I still think the eduation you get there is excellent. I think no matter where you go, its what you make of it. I loved the burgh as a town and the people there are down to earth and friendly. You can get a great variety of experiences through the program there and come out prepared to take on the world. But if you have a choice between a couple of schools, go where you think your personality and goals fit best. I was accepted at Pitt and LaRoche, but felt more comfortable elsewhere with faculty and with what I wanted to accomplish. I know you'll make the right choice no matter where you go. I don't know a thing about Georgetown regetably. Good luck. Go Steelers.

It is kind of interesting to read these perceptions of the admission criteria to Pitt being less than objective. Having grown up in Western PA, I can only say that nepotism and other forms of favoritism seem to reign supreme in almost every bureaucracy I knew anything about, including the public schools- new hires always seemed to have the same last name as school board members, lol. It doesn't seem to be anything like that where I live now.

CougRN · Feb 25, 2005

both are great schools. don't go on so called reputation go on facts you get from students from both programs. reputation won't matter when you apply for a job. personally i looked at issues like cost of living in the city and ease of transportation. i think you would find that better in pitt. at georgetown you will be class with the med students and this could be fun. but honestly both schools are great and i would go with how you felt at the interview and who made you feel more welcome. remember you are going to be there for 27+ months and you want to feel good about the people who are going to be educating you. that's my opinion. good luck.

fourmuttsup · Feb 26, 2005

Hi,My name is Pat and am from Pgh.I am not sure if I am in the correct zone. I am looking to find out if there is a way to be certified in hospice as a l.p.n.

thank you for any advise you can give

pghfoxfan · Feb 26, 2005

Uni of Pittsburgh is well know for their CRNA program. My husband went there too and thought the program was excellent!

I am also bias, because I am from the burgh. Born and raised. Georgetown is a VERY expensive area to live. Traffic is TERRIBLE! I LOVE DC though to visit.

pghfoxfan · Feb 26, 2005

I work for the "other" system in Pgh. West Penn

Although Uni of Pgh is hugh, it's anesthesia program is a bit more personal.

Kate11 · Feb 26, 2005

I graduated from Pitt with my BSN, not all that impressive with this experience. I also worked at Presby to get my necessary ICU experience for a CRNA program, this definitely prepared me for my journey. Some of the most remarkable people I have met work within the UPMC system. However I can say it was grueling. I actually didn't apply to their CRNA program - for the main fact I thought I would do better with a smaller program - just my style of learning. I can say any program is going to be tough - concentrating on clinicals - exams - family etc. Give your decision some time, spend a few days in each city, PITT has some great benefits as does Georgetown. Best of luck with your decision!!

WVUturtle514 · Feb 27, 2005

I graduated from West Virginia University with my BSN, so needless to say, I have a ton of friends from in and around the Pittsburgh area. I actually looked at Pittsburgh's program, but decided that I needed a change of scenery. I have been accepted into Georgetown's program for Fall 2005 and have already sent in my deposit. I can't wait to get this show on the road (I know you understand where I'm coming from). If you decide to choose Georgetown and need a roommate, drop me a line....haha. Hope to see you in class this fall!!!!

Tracie