after graduation

njugpa · Joined: 03 Oct 2008 Posts: 1

i had a question regarding what direction to take after graduation.im currently pursuing an associate degree in radiation tech and i was wondering once im done what would be the right step to follow.
1.to atleast work for one yr before enrolling for a bsc in radiation therapy -that is due to financial need since id need to relocate to another city and leave my current job so trying to settle down elsewhere wld be difficult OR shld i
2.immediately start applying for schools that offer the bcs progm and immediately make arrangmnts to move and try and apply for a rad tech position and try to juggle both school and the job just to try and survive and pay my rent and credit cards and all that.
another question is according to your experience and knowledge how is it to work in MRI,CT and RADIATION THERAPY and which one would you advise me to specialise in because of the ability to not only work in the states but also other countries like canada.
Currently i live in acworth georgia where schools in radiation proffesion are scarse.
thanks very much for taking the time to reply to my question.

Randythetech · Joined: 10 Oct 2008 Posts: 11

Well, njugpa, hospitals will often offer financial assistance to technologists who wish to further advance their careers. In addition, getting a job in a hospital will also ensure that, following your BSC, you'll have a place to return to.

As far as MRI, CT, or Radiation Therapy, that all depends on your own work ethic, and preference.

MRI seems to be a slower pace of work, and involves a more intensive and monitored approach to each study.

CT is often paired with Diagnostic Imaging in hospitals where you share the dual title; schooling is not ESSENTIAL to pass the CT boards, you can take the exam without a bachelors' (iirc)

Radiation Therapy involves a closer relationship with the patient you're examining, and opens doors into Radiation Dosimetry and BioMed. However, the job itself requires a level of maturity and understanding, as the patients you're examining often don't have long to live, and will be seeing you time and time again.