Alumna: Julia Vicario

Graduation Year: 2025

Employer and Unit: Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center; Orthopedic Medical/Surgical

Role: Registered Nurse

Q: What are some of your primary job responsibilities?

Very broadly, I manage and advocate for patients’ plan of care, including medication management and coordinating admissions and discharges.

Q: What is the most exciting part of your role?

When I walk in for a shift I never know how the next 12 hours are going to unfold. I love the fast paced environment and working as a collaborative team with the other care providers. I enjoy building a good rapport with patients and their loved ones because I want them to feel comfortable and confident in the care that I provide.

Q: Did you learn anything from your experiences at Villanova?

My Villanova experience taught me to see the person before the diagnosis. Finding out what the patient views as important influences how I prioritize and organize the care I provide. I also learned how impactful culturally competent and trauma informed care are for a patient’s healthcare experience.

Q: How did you land your job?

I’m from Pennsylvania and started my job search by applying to hospitals in Philly, Delaware, New Jersey, and DC. A friend from VT mentioned that her parents both work for DHMC, love it, and encourage any nursing students to apply. I didn’t think I’d end up in NH but applied to get more experience with the application and interview process. The more I learned about the hospital network, the supportive atmosphere, and strong new grad fellowship, the more willing I was to move to a state that I’d never stepped foot in!

Q: Any other advice for future Villanovans?

When applying for a job, specifically in healthcare, don’t forget to analyze how the hospital network(s) treats their employees. What are the resources you as a nurse will have from management so you can provide quality care? In interviews I asked about relocation assistance and loan reimbursement.

Nursing is an emotionally and physically demanding career, so find ways to recharge! Continue playing your favorite sports, explore local coffee shops, borrow books from the local library, or engage in whatever you’re passionate about!