Help for new grad and possible future CRNA: UCLA MICU or USC CTICU?

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Hi everyone, I'm a new grad looking for help in making a decision between choosing the UCLA Nurse Residency Program in the MICU and the USC Nurse Residency Program in the CTICU. There is not much detail on the UCLA residency program like how many months we get a preceptor. If anyone has any experience or knows, that would be great.

Also, I know UCLA is ranked higher than USC (I know rankings aren't everything), but USC is offering the CTICU which is a more interesting and coveted ICU than a MICU. Which is the wiser choice? Or what do you think are the pros and cons of each? I do not have any experienced nurse friends to advise, so it would be much appreciated!!!

Thank you

Specializes in Women’s Health.

Sorry but I'm a little confused. Do you have job offers for both hospitals or have you asking which to apply to? If you're only submitting applications, definitely apply to both, see what offers you get and go from there. Both facilities have great reputations and you should get excellent training and experience at both. In this situation I would look at things like amount of time with preceptor, pay, benefits, commute, and tuition reimbursement to make a final decision. Good luck!

Hi! Thanks for asking for clarification. I have offers for both positions, and that's why I'm looking to compare them!

Specializes in Women’s Health.

Congrats on the job offers! You should call HR asap and get as much info as you can regarding the two residences. If you haven't had one already, see if you can get a tour of the units. Work place culture can play a big role in how happy you are at work in the long run. I think UCLA pays more if that matters to you and has excellent benefits but the commute can be brutal depending on where you live. Good luck on your decision!

I've heard bad things about USC's management and they seem to have a very high turnover rate. I would definitely take the offer at UCLA over USC.

Specializes in Women’s Health.
I've heard bad things about USC's management and they seem to have a very high turnover rate. I would definitely take the offer at UCLA over USC.

Are you referring to USC Keck or USC LAC? I have not heard many negative comments regarding Keck and as far as I know their turn over is not high, USC LAC is a different story. I'm assuming the OP has an offer with Keck as USC county doesn't do a new grad residency.

Hello Nurse9393,

I am a new graduate trying to apply for UCLA for their residency. I read that you have been offered by UCLA and I was wondering if you mind giving me advice on how to land an interview and do great in it? I wanted to give their applications for October of this year a try and do my best in preparing for it. Please and thank you!

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