It isn’t easy to pin down the single-best reason someone chooses to become a radiologic technologist. Is it because they like using high-end technology? Is it how fast the profession is growing – now in the top 25 of healthcare support jobs? Or, is it like radiologic technology degree student Brenda B. says: “I wanted to pursue a new career in the medical field that was people-oriented and patient care focused.”
Some healthcare support professions force students to be tech-minded; others end up putting people in an office setting doing the same routine every day. When you become a radiologic technologist – a rad tech – it’s fast-paced and fulfilling. There’s no worry about finding yourself in a one-dimensional role.
As Brenda happily found out, the world of diagnostic medical imaging offers a job that challenges her active listening, planning, and critical thinking skills every day. Now that she’s about to become a radiologic technologist, Brenda knows she’ll be in charge of imaging procedures and delivering high-level patient care and comfort daily.
What’s that “care and comfort” look like as a rad tech?
Being skilled in technology and patient care aspects didn’t present an easy path, Brenda says, but she learned to appreciate the comprehensive format of her Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program. You can check out Brenda’s class schedule here.
“The clinical rotations are rigorous, so you have to allow yourself to be open to coaching, feedback, and constructive criticism,” Brenda says. “All these things helped me to improve and succeed in my skills. I understand the ‘why’ behind every facet of my education now and how the book studies complement the clinical experience.”
One more thing Brenda would say to those thinking about the rad tech profession is to dive in with full confidence in your ability to succeed, especially when the job fits what you want to do.
Brenda knew she could make a difference in people’s lives as a rad tech, despite having a mostly arts and science background in college. “I knew that meant hard work, and I would reap the benefits,” Brenda says.
So, do you have what it takes to make a move into today’s healthcare environment? The career advising site owlguru.com lists six traits common among radiologic technologists:
Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) is a nonprofit, private, healthcare-focused university offering an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S. degree) in Radiologic Technology. Our degree is an evening-based program that students often complete in as little as two years.
Imaging center professionals helped guide the CUKC program design, and our instructors have real-life experience doing the imaging work they’re teaching. As our students gain competencies, they receive clinical experience in various healthcare facilities.
Here are four more reasons to become a radiologic technologist at CUKC:
Classes for the A.A.S. in Radiologic Technology begin in the spring and fall. Ready to become a radiologic technologist? Begin by requesting more details here and download this free eBook: Your Complete Guide to a Career as a Radiologic Technologist.