Resident Life

Life as a Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health Resident

At Hackensack Meridian Health, you're not just joining a hospital—you’re becoming part of one of New Jersey’s most expansive and prestigious health networks. Known for blending cutting-edge research, advanced clinical training, and compassionate community care, Hackensack Meridian Health is recognized among the Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare. Our reputation speaks for itself, with numerous accolades and rankings that place us at the forefront of pediatric medicine.

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital and Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health proudly hold the title of #1 children’s hospital in New Jersey and ranked in the Top 20 in the Mid-Atlantic Region, according to U.S. News & World Report. Our pediatric nephrology program is also nationally ranked, highlighting our commitment to excellence in subspecialty care.

Benefits Beyond the Hospital Walls

Residents are part of a vibrant community that extends far beyond the hospital corridors. Our team member benefits are thoughtfully designed to support both personal and professional well-being, with offerings like competitive compensation, comprehensive health coverage, and on-site child care—just to name a few.

A Location That Has It All

Located in the heart of central New Jersey, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and urban accessibility. Just minutes from the famous Jersey Shore, our campus is a quick drive from vibrant downtowns like Red Bank and Asbury Park, filled with restaurants, boutiques, and live music.

Monmouth County is consistently praised for its top-rated public schools, abundant parks and lakes, and a calendar full of outdoor events. Whether you're relaxing at the beach, hiking a scenic trail, or exploring charming downtowns, there's always something to discover. Plus, with easy access to New York City, Philadelphia, and the Poconos, weekend getaways are only a short drive away.

Looking for culture and entertainment? Residents enjoy proximity to unique attractions like the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton and high-profile concerts at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel. The region boasts an impressive array of theaters, nightlife, and award-winning cuisine—offering a vibrant lifestyle outside of work.

Our Campus: A Hub of Excellence

Hovnanian Children’s Hospital is designed to empower residents with everything they need to succeed. Our state-of-the-art facilities support hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and specialized training.

• 10 residents per year – ensuring close mentorship and a strong sense of community
• 45-bed inpatient unit – offering diverse clinical exposure
• 10-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) – with no PICU fellows, residents take the lead
• 35-bed Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) – comprehensive training in neonatology
• 24/7 Pediatric Emergency Department – a 20-bed unit equipped for any pediatric crisis
• Dedicated Pediatric Sedation Service – managed by our critical care team
• Certified Child Life Specialists – supporting holistic, family-centered care
• On-site Ronald McDonald Room – a recently renovated haven for families
• Outpatient subspecialty clinics – including Neurology, Hematology/Oncology, Pulmonology, Endocrinology, Infectious Disease, and Gastroenterology

Here, you’ll learn, lead, and grow—supported by a community that invests in your journey and surrounded by a region full of opportunity and adventure. Welcome to life as a resident at Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health—where your future begins.

Scholarly Excellence: Research and Quality Improvement

We are exceptionally proud of our dynamic scholarly curriculum, designed to empower residents as leaders in evidence-based care and clinical innovation. Each year, our residents shine—earning accolades at the annual Hackensack Meridian Research Day and presenting original work at prestigious national conferences across the country.

Quality Improvement: Creating Change That Matters

All pediatric residents actively participate in a structured Quality Improvement (QI) curriculum, with the goal of translating real-time clinical experiences into impactful change. Residents begin their QI journey early—project ideas and mentors are assigned in PGY-1, with a formal report-out expected by mid year PGY-2. This timeline ensures that each resident has the tools, guidance, and momentum to see their project from conception to measurable outcome.

Whether it's improving patient safety, optimizing discharge processes, or enhancing communication across care teams, our residents learn how to lead initiatives that directly improve the quality of care we deliver every day.

Distinction in Research: Elevating Innovation

For those with a passion for research, our “Distinction in Research” pathway provides an in-depth experience in clinical investigation. This specialized track guides residents through the essentials of research design, statistical analysis, and academic writing, all while pairing them with experienced mentors. The curriculum is flexible, supportive, and tailored to help residents not only complete meaningful projects—but also publish and present their findings on regional and national stages.

Residents receive a clear timeline of QI and research milestones during intern orientation, helping them stay organized, focused, and on track throughout residency.

Proven Success

From peer-reviewed publications to nationally recognized posters and oral presentations, our residents' scholarly achievements reflect the strength of our mentorship, the rigor of our curriculum, and the creativity of our trainees. Whether pursuing QI, research, or both, Hackensack Meridian residents graduate with the skills and confidence to lead academic and clinical innovation in their future careers.

HOPE Tower: Where Innovation Meets Immersion

We believe excellence in patient care begins with excellence in training. That vision comes to life at HOPE Tower, home to our cutting-edge simulation and education center—a space where medicine, technology, and teamwork intersect.

Designed with a mission to foster interdisciplinary, professional, and patient-centered learning, the 6,500+ square foot, state-of-the-art simulation laboratory at HOPE Tower is more than just a training facility—it's a launchpad for future healthcare leaders.

Simulation That Mirrors Reality

In this high-tech environment, residents and fellows participate in hands-on, scenario-based learning that replicates real-world medical challenges—from neonatal emergencies to critical care interventions. Here, learners tackle high-acuity, high-stakes scenarios in real time, all within the safety of a controlled setting.

Whether practicing advanced procedures or refining communication in crisis situations, the focus is clear: elevate patient safety, boost confidence, and sharpen decision-making under pressure.

Wellness That Works: Supporting Our Residents, Inside and Out

We believe that exceptional patient care starts with happy, healthy residents. That’s why wellness isn’t an afterthought—it’s woven into the fabric of our program.

Each month, we hit pause on our usual Thursday didactics to celebrate connection, creativity, and community through dedicated wellness activities. Whether it’s tie-dyeing scrubs, sipping mocktails with friends, or taking a sunny stroll to our favorite ice cream shop right across the street, these moments offer residents a chance to reset, recharge, and just have fun.

Through intentional wellness programming and initiatives, we’re committed to nurturing not only your clinical skills, but also your well-being, resilience, and sense of belonging. Because when we care for each other, we all thrive.

Here, your wellness matters. And your community has your back.

Annual Class Retreats: Unplug, Reconnect, Reenergize

We understand that meaningful medicine starts with strong relationships—and there’s no better way to build those bonds than during our Annual Resident Retreats.

Each class is given a dedicated day away from clinical duties to unwind, reflect, and reconnect. These retreats are thoughtfully designed to strengthen camaraderie, promote wellness, and celebrate the unique spirit of each residency class.

The day begins with a light educational activity—something thought-provoking yet relaxed, designed to spark reflection and discussion. After that, the fun begins! Each class votes on a social outing tailored to their vibe and interests, and no two retreats are ever quite the same.

Past retreats have included:

• Beach day getaways to soak up the sun and surf
• Axe throwing adventures to release a little stress and unleash your inner lumberjack
• Sip-and-paint art sessions to unleash creativity
• Trips to local zoos for a dose of fun and fresh air with your favorite animal companions

Beyond the Hospital: A Residency Family That Stays Connected

The bonds between residents don’t stop at sign-out. Our program fosters a genuine sense of community, friendship, and fun—because we know that having a strong support system makes all the difference.

Whether it’s impromptu get-togethers or long-standing traditions, our residents truly enjoy spending time together outside of work. Many classes have started their own monthly “family dinners”, where laughter, home-cooked meals (or takeout favorites), and shared stories fill the evening.

Celebrate Every Step

To mark the end of each rotation, residents gather during the final week of every block to celebrate their accomplishments, decompress, and enjoy some well-earned downtime. From casual hangouts to themed nights out, these mini-celebrations are a fun and meaningful way to reflect on growth and reset for what’s next.

Keeping the Fun Flowing: Enter the Social Chair

To make sure the good times keep rolling, the program created dedicated Social Chair positions—a resident-led role focused on organizing events and keeping our community close-knit. From planning group outings and holiday parties to coordinating wellness events and spontaneous celebrations, our Social Chairs help make residency feel like a community. Because here, we’re more than just colleagues—we’re a family. And we believe that shared laughter, support, and connection are just as important as clinical excellence.