Homecoming: The Bestie Edition

Best friends Julie Sarensky, RN, and Erica Salvetti, RN, both left Crouse – and both found their way back. But their homecoming story comes with a bonus: along the way they became lifelong best friends. 

The two met on our 4 North Irving Unit shortly after Julie’s own homecoming in 2019,  and now their friendship knows no bounds. Ever since their first encounter in the medication room, they’ve been attached at the hip, “If you see me, you see Erica,” Julie said.

After graduating from the Pomeroy College of Nursing, Julie started her professional career on our 4 North Irving Unit. Two years later, due to her long commute and a new opportunity, Julie made the ultimate decision to explore a career outside of Crouse. Four months later, she found her way back.

“When I decided to come back, our nurse manager  ran out of the room and started yelling that I was coming back,” she laughed, “and that’s just a testimony of how much everyone cares for each other here.” 

Erica had a similar start at Crouse. In 2014, she also received her nursing degree from the Pomeroy College of Nursing. Recently, Erica left Crouse  to pursue another opportunity. There she met many amazing individuals and learned from her experience, but there was no denying that the people at Crouse were like family. Erica was surprised to have many from her Crouse team reach out while she was gone and offer support on her new journey. So, when her time away came to a close, she said: “Take me back to Crouse!”.

“My kids think she’s their best friend,” Erica joked as the two looked back on their friendship. On and off the unit, Julie and Erica are there for each other through the tough days and always make sure to celebrate the small successes with their team. 

“It’s nice to not only be proud of the work you’re doing, but also be proud of the work your friends and coworkers are doing,” Erica said. “We’ve grown up together here,” she explained. Julie added: “We found each other here, and we both found our way home too!”

This duo is proof that at Crouse, you don’t just build a career, you can build lifelong friendships. 

Grow with Crouse: crouse.org/careers