Hey everyone! My name is Avery Kissinger, and I’m a freshman in the nursing program here at Pitt. I’m originally from Bloomsburg, PA, which is about four hours east of campus. I chose Pitt because of its top-ranked nursing program and the amazing clinical opportunities offered through UPMC. I am also involved in Army ROTC, and after graduation I plan to serve as an Army Nurse in the Nurse Corps. Long-term, I hope to follow in my mom’s footsteps and become a nurse anesthetist.

A little more about me: I currently work as a Patient Care Technician in the labor and delivery unit at Geisinger, which has been an incredible learning experience. I absolutely love to travel, as I’ve been to Mexico six times, France twice, and even had the chance to go to South Africa. In my free time I enjoy reading, playing guitar, and staying active. I have a little brother, and two French Bulldogs named Bruno and Stella.

This summer I’ll be traveling to Bilbao, Spain through the Pitt Plus3 program. I chose this program because I’m passionate about learning how healthcare differs across cultures, and I’m excited to see how global perspectives can shape my approach to nursing. I’m looking forward to gaining new insights, making lifelong memories, and embracing everything Spain has to offer. I can’t wait to connect with new people and grow both personally and professionally through this experience!