Beginning a new career during the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged us and encouraged us to look at things differently.  For some, it was an opportunity to look at at their career and determine what path to take.  Let's hear from one of our new Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA) colleagues, who took this opportunity to define a new professional future and take a chance on a new field.

Meet Samantha

Samantha Cerone didn't let the pandemic scare her! She jumped in and embraced the opportunity to start a new career in a field she knew nothing about but with a company she wanted to be a part of.  She joined FMCNA in April 2020 as a Recruiting Coordinator/Credentialing Officer for our Fresenius Travel division.  Read on to learn how Samantha adapted to the new way of finding a job and how she is already making a difference in her role. 

LET’S HEAR WHAT SAMANTHA HAD TO SAY:

Q: Why did you join the FMCNA team?

A: While searching for a new job I was referred to FMCNA. After hearing about the company and speaking to multiple members of the team during my interview process (which happenedd over the phone due to the pandemic) I felt as though it was a company I would enjoy working for; it had the culture and values I wanted in a company.

Q: What was your experience like beginning a new career during a pandemic?

A: It was easier than I expected.  I wanted to stay safe and I appreciated that the company wanted their team safe as well, allowing us to "meet" virtually.  Once I was hired,  I was sent a laptop and met all of my coworkers through video chats. It was definitely a different process, but it ran smoothly and through video chats and instant messages I feel as though I have been able to get to know the team I work with and effectively learn how to do my job. Everyone has been super supportive and whenever I have a question I know that the answer is just a message away.

Q: What would you tell someone hesitant about starting a new career during this pandemic?

A: It is not as scary as you might think. FMCNA has their training well planned out and is able to accommodate the changes that need to be made to create a safe and effective training during a pandemic. Technology has played a big role in being able to stay connected during this time. I can see, hear and instant message my colleagues any time I have a question or need to collaborate.

Q: How do you feel that your role is a "vital part" in supporting our patients and our company?

A: My role supports our Travel Nurse team, helping them be where they are needed and assist facilities that may be facing staffing challenges due to the pandemic or other circumstances. Getting help where it is needed not only supports our front line patient care team, but also the patients who they care for.  Knowing that I can support both our colleagues and patients makes me feel as though I am helping to make a difference.  

Q: Describe an experience or feeling that stands out when thinking of your career with FMCNA?

A: When I started with FMCNA I had not previously worked in the healthcare/medical field. This was a big change for me, and I was nervous. Yet, I have been able to learn so much and find confidence in a position that less than a year ago I knew nothing about. I am so grateful for the knowledge I have gained through this position and the opportunity to grow with such a great company.

About Fresenius Medical Care

We have become a global leader in healthcare because of the unwavering dedication our people bring to work every day. Whether that means developing new-to-market dialysis technology or educating patients, our team touches the lives of more than 190,000 patients through innovative care and profound, personal connections.

With Fresenius Medical Care North America, you will “be the difference,” enabling patients to thrive, providing comfort to families, supporting coworkers so they can realize their goals, compelling our company to achieve through innovation and performance, and driving the development of your career.

Our team is made up of over 70,000 dedicated employees in North America. All of them focus on being the difference and delivering the highest-quality care to people with kidney disease – helping them to lead longer, better, and healthier lives.