Sarah Hancock

MD
she/her
PGY-2

About Me

Hometown:  Collegeville, PA
College/University:  Swarthmore College
Medical School: University of Rochester

What are your career goals?
1) To be a great EM doc! 2) Unsure otherwise. I would like to be a medical educator in some capacity and may consider doing an ultrasound fellowship.

What did you do the summer before internship?
I bought a house with my fiancé and have been having fun renovating it!

What do you like to do outside of medicine? 
Soccer, skiing, hiking, camping, baking, and fudge making


Reflections on the Pitt EM Program

What were you looking for in a residency program? 
I was looking for a program that demonstrated unconditional support for their residents with endless clinical and career opportunities.

What are the strengths of the Pitt EM program? 
I think Pitt EM's most unique strength is their EMS program. Regardless of EMS interest, the opportunity to work as an independent provider in the pre-hospital setting is pivotal to helping a resident develop their individual practice. Having the opportunity to develop independence is particularly important in EM, which is wonderfully and inherently team-based.

What has surprised you most about Pitt?
I have been pleasantly surprised to how dedicated everyone is to each other's wellbeing. There is a true sense of camaraderie and care for one another among the residents in addition to the faculty's dedication to the residents. It has already felt like joining one big family.


About Pitt EM and Pittsburgh

What do you like best about living in Pittsburgh/Western PA?
I absolutely love the ability to live what feels like a suburban life while also being in the heart of a city with all the city amenities. The sport and food scene are of "big city" quality without the difficulties of living in a big city.

Where did you choose to live, and why?
My fiancé and I bought a house in Beechview, which is a neighborhood right on the other side of the Liberty Tunnel. We chose this area as it was in city limits but provided the space of a suburb. We have public transportation directly into Downtown and only a 15 minute drive to Oakland.

What advice would you give to incoming residents about moving to the 'Burgh? 
If you are planning to live somewhere with the idea of walking to the hospital or local stores, be aware of the hills and how that might affect your commute. Also, every neighborhood has a unique vibe, which is awesome, but consider visiting the city to figure out where you want to live.