Breaking Contract Question

[JulsRN]

Hypothetical scenario:

new grad, offered residency position, accepts. Signs contract stating that he/she will work for hospital for xx amount of time or pay $x amount.

new grad get's offered another job, dream job in fact. They pull out of the new grad residency BEFORE orientation begins. Do they still have to pay $x amount?

hopefully that makes sense

[Ardneth]

Typically, once you've signed an employment contract, you are locked in. Doesn't matter if you haven't started your first day yet. It takes effect the day they receive the contacts back with your signature and date on it.