New beginnings: Melissa's journey to Skilled Nursing

Starting a new phase in life can be hard, especially when it comes to your career. Whether you’re fresh out of school or changing careers after many years at the same job, change can be scary. They say those who take great risks are greatly rewarded though, and Melissa Barbini is one such example of a risk paying off.

“When I was deciding on what to do for a career, I was taking care of my grandmother and I loved it. I’m also quite the people person and see myself as very outgoing, so I figured that being a CNA would suit me perfectly”

Melissa has been a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) for over seventeen years. She spent ten of those years working with one healthcare provider. Recently, she decided to make a change. That’s when she took a job at Allied Services.

“Over the past seventeen years, I've been lucky enough to have a very rewarding field to work in. When I decided to leave, it was probably one of the hardest decisions of my life. I just knew it was time for a change.”

"Initially, I wanted to provide private duty services. Back when I was in school, I started with private duty taking care of an older couple, and I really enjoyed it. Now, after talking with a few friends that I used to work with who now work at Allied, they recommended it. I thought about it and figured that I’d give it a try.”

Melissa joined the care team at Allied Services Skilled Nursing Center in Scranton.

“So far, my time at Allied has been great. All of my coworkers are amazing. They always offer to help out even when they don’t have to. Everyone works as a team here and I love it.”

“As for my residents, I work in Dementia Care, and I absolutely love getting to know them. I listen to their stories and talk to them as much as I can. I always try to do things that will make their day, and sometimes I'll even give them treats like ice cream. Making them happy is so rewarding.”

Employees receive regular training to help them provide the best possible care. New employees like Melissa also receive support to help them adjust to the care setting and the particular needs of the residents and patients they are caring for.

“When I started at Allied, Roy Harrity (RN, Staff Development Coordinator) taught me everything I needed to know to make my switch. Even though I’ve been doing this for so long, I learned a few new things. Above all else though, Roy made me feel super comfortable. I was scared to start all over again at a new job, but he helped me a lot. He’s a great listener and very personable. I’d say he’s an asset to Allied.”

When asked about any advice that she had for those considering switching jobs, Melissa had this to say:

“Don’t be afraid to take that step. I was scared, and to have that feeling of starting over after all these years made me feel hesitant. But sometimes you have to make a leap. Above all, just stay positive, and try it out.”

“I’d say I made the right choice. The pay is incredible and the work environment is super friendly and safe. The communication is great here and I feel like I’ve joined a team! Coming to Allied was the best decision that I've ever made.”

Careers in Skilled Nursing

Allied Services Skilled Nursing Center in Scranton is hiring. We offer: 

• RNs earn up to $30,000 sign-on bonus
• LPNs earn up to $25,000 sign-on bonus
• CNAs earn up to $20,000 sign-on bonus
• Make your own schedule
• Enjoy double overtime pay
• Enjoy competitive hourly rates
• Enjoy shift differential up to $5 per hour
• Generous tuition assistance/reimbursement programs
• Generous benefits package

To learn more call Becky at 570-348-2222 or click here. 

Allied Services offers competitive pay rates commensurate with experience plus shift differential, excellent benefits package, preceptor-led orientation! Allied Services Human Resources Department, 100 Abington Exec. Park, Clarks Summit PA 18411. Call us today at 1-800-368-3910. Allied Services is an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities. Bilingual individuals encouraged to apply.