First Post
In what kind of setting do you practice? Please describe what it's like working in that kind of setting.
Currently, I am a student so I am not able to practice independently yet. We do have a fully energized lab in the classroom and four hospital sites where we practice in the clinical portion of the curriculum. The first few weeks were very overwhelming but eventually I felt a bit more comfortable with everything.
How/why did you get into your particular field?
I have always been interested in the medical field and the opportunities it offers. I knew when I graduated high school that I wanted to be a nurse or a radiologic technologist. I was already interested in x- rays and the mysteries of radiation so the decision was easy to make.
What are your greatest professional accomplishments thus far?
So far my greatest accomplishment right now is making it through the first semester exceeding my expectations.
What are your professional goals for the future?
I plan on furthering my education after attaining my associate's degree, with interests in radiation therapy and possibly even going all the way to medical school.
Do you ever feel like the technologists at your clinical rotation sites forget what it is like to be a student? or do they ever compare your program to the schooling you are going through? I felt that sometimes throughout my clinic that i was being treated more so as an "employee" per say, then a student. I also ran into issues with technologists disagreeing on the way my program was setup and they would always talk about so much more they had to do. I know at the end of the week I am exhausted and tired and I feel like I have accomplished alot. I think that the program is run excellent especially that the opportunity for single parents and working families is given.
In the beginning of my first semester I said to my teacher, "Do you think I am going to make it? Because, if not I have some other options that I could pursue". She replied with "Well, it sounds like to me it's more if you really want to instead of can you". I'll never forget that saying, it was the truth. Since that moment I have stopped thinking about if I was going to make it or not. I am going to become a radiographer because I want to and I can do it. To any first years who read this comment, I hope that saying helps you rekindle your inspirations when you are experiencing difficult and doubtful times.
Is there another clinical site you could go to? If so I would apply at other sites where your strong qualities will be appreciated and not looked over. To me, the clinical component of a radiography program is where you begin to get that hospital experience. It's important that you are happy where you work and the environment that you have described sounds like it's only going to discourage you. I hope this helps your outlook on the situation and I am sorry my response is delayed.
I think Jess is right. They do not seem to appreciate what you have to offer. There are many programs who would love to have students like you I am sure. So you should look for any others in your area and apply to them. I am suprised that they think you should have hospital experience. Not everyone has that opportunity before they go to radiography school. Hang in there. You will find a good school who wants you.