Saint John's vs. UCLA for new grad?

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I'm looking for a job in women's health...either gyn oncology or mother/baby. I graduate with my BSN this summer and am looking for a hospital that offers a good new grad training program with a good salary or loan forgiveness program. I have a lot of loans to pay off and want to get rid of them asap.

I am originally from LA so am familiar with the area hospitals, but not as familiar with their reputations for nurse employment satisfaction or new grad training programs. I've already met the UCLA recruiter and went on an interview there. I just spoke with someone from St. John's Health Center in Santa Monica today. Has anyone worked here before? or know anything about it?

Also, does anyone have any comments about working in a community hospital such as St. John's versus a large teaching hospital such as UCLA?

any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!

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I work at UCLA and I have to say this hospital is excellent because not only are you a new grad you also have new interns that are working there. Both you and the new intern will be learing. Awesome hospital to start.

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UCLA has more opportunities and better benefits (especially if you want to get an advanced degree). St. John's has changed (to the negative) a great deal during the last few years with many lay-offs (mostly non-clinical) and out-sourcing. I would pick UCLA.

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I work at UCLA and I have to say this hospital is excellent because not only are you a new grad you also have new interns that are working there. Both you and the new intern will be learing. Awesome hospital to start.

how much salary they offer a new grad or someone with one year experience?

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new grads are starting at $28hr at UCLA.

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is that for BSN or ADN grad? How much is the differential?

I looked at the apartments around UCLA and a decent 1 bedroom 650 square feet is between 1300 - 1600. Well, i guess, its still cheaper compare to NYC :)

ANy areas that you can recommend closer to UCLA that is cheaper (if there is?)

thanks

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LA rents are not cheap that's for sure. The area surrounding Westwood is very expensive but if you look around you may find a deal. If you don't mind the traffic on the 405 there's areas in the valley that are a bit cheaper. Or you could try Culver City too. Good luck!

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