becoming a RT/one to one convo with a radiographer

jer · Joined: 03 Apr 2009 Posts: 3

Hello,

I just came across this great forum and would love to get some advice on becoming a radiographer.

My story is that I am in the midst of making a career transition. For the past 12 years, I worked as an advertising art director. The job was was not satisfying to me. So, I took a strong interest career test. One of my highest results was radiography. This came as a surprise as I know little about the profession (Perhaps my experience art directing images and working with computers influenced the test).

I am 38. I have a B.A. with a first year of premed requirements. My science grades were well above average and are from a competitive American university.

I want to learn more about the field. I already visited radiography association websites and watched videos on youtube. They are informative. I also contacted schools in the New York City area to find out about programs. So, I have a basic understanding of the required schooling and the position's responsibilities. My question is: how would I be able to sit down and talk with a practicing radiographer and find out what the job is like on a daily basis? None of the schools I contacted allows you to observe the job being done and talk with radiographers. This one to one flow of information would greatly help. Do you know of any way I can get in touch with a practicing radiographer and talk about what it's like on a daily basis?

Thanks for your help in advance.

Sincerely,
jer

hjhogle · Posted: Fri Apr 03, 2009 1:38 pm Post subject:

Contact local hospitals and ask them about the possiblity of spending a day or part of a day 'shadowing' a radiographer to see what it's really like.

Rules governing this practice vary from state to state and even from institution to institution. Patient privacy regs (aka 'HIPAA') are relatively vague - consequently, there are a range of interpretations. Some facilities will allow prospective students to shadow, others will not.

Good luck - sounds like you've done your homework.
hjh, RT

jer · Joined: 03 Apr 2009 Posts: 3

Hj,
Thank for the response.
I see that you're based in the tri-state area.
Are there any nearby RT programs that you would recommend?

Best,
jer

Tinag13 · Joined: 09 Apr 2009 Posts: 6

Not sure if you tried this but I recently became a volunteer in the radiology dept at a hospital. A lot of hospitals have programs for college students. I am close to the same situation is you; changed careers and recently applied to a Rad Tech program at a local college. I am in the top 50 and will find out the end of May if I am accepted. Can't wait!!!

Anyway, check with your local hospitals and contact the volunteer depts. The hospital where I volunteer allows people to observe for a day in a interested dept.

Hope this helps. Good luck

jer · Joined: 03 Apr 2009 Posts: 3