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abraham
Student
Homestead, Florida
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What are some tips to succeed in a radiologic technology program and stand out when applying for internships or jobs after graduation #Spring25?
I’m a high school senior who’s planning to pursue an associate degree in radiologic technology. I’m passionate about working in healthcare and want to make sure I’m fully prepared for the program, both academically and professionally. I’d love advice from people who’ve gone through it or currently work in the field
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Dr H
Dr. H's Research
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Hey Abraham! 👋
First of all lemme just high five you... virtually... for already thinking ahead about how to succeed in your radiologic technology program. That mindset alone already sets you apart.
For a few ways you can Academicaly & Clinically improve, here is what I can recommend...
1. Try to master the basics early on. Anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology are your best friends. The more fluent you are in these before your program starts, the easier it’ll be to absorb radiographic positioning and procedures.
2. Respect the Physics. Radiologic science = radiation physics + patient care. It can be intimidating, but understanding how radiation interacts with the human body helps you become a safe and smart technologist. Some admire those who actually know their way not only but told and physics too.
3. Your clinical instructors are not just teachers, they’re potential references and future colleagues. Take feedback like gold. Ask questions, be humble, and stay eager to improve. Just ultimately be coachable.
4. Between classroom work, clinical hours, and studying, your time management skills will get a workout. Create a routine, use a planner or app, and build in breaks to avoid burnout. organization is sanity.
So to stand out here is a few things you can keep in mind and start...
1. Show Up Like a Professional, From Day One. Even as a student, treat clinical rotations like a job interview. Arrive early, dress the part, keep your attitude upbeat, and communicate clearly.
2. Document Your Experience. Like you can keep a small clinical log or journal. Not only will this help you study and reflect—it’ll help you recall stories for interviews (like a time you helped a nervous patient or adapted to a tough case).
3. Being a great tech isn’t just about image quality, it’s also about people skills. Practice being calm under pressure, empathetic with patients, and assertive when advocating for their safety.
4. Get to know your classmates, instructors, and clinical site staff. Ask how they got into the field, what they wish they knew sooner, and what they look for in a new hire. People remember curiosity and kindness.
5. Pursue Certification Extras, if you are looking to it long term this can be helpful. After your degree and ARRT certification, consider getting specialized in CT, MRI, or mammography. Bonus skills means more job options and better pay.
Abraham, you’re stepping into a field that saves lives with precision and empathy. Keep your curiosity sharp, your work ethic strong, and your heart in the right place, and you’ll go far. Wishing you so much success in your journey ahead,
Shadow a Radiologic Technologist before you start your program, see the real rhythm of the job. you will be surprised what you learn and experience along this real time.
Start brushing up on anatomy & physics using YouTube, textbooks, or apps like Complete Anatomy or Kenhub.
Join a professional org like ASRT (American Society of Radiologic Technologists) for networking, scholarships, and resources.
Stay updated with tech trends, AI in imaging, digital radiography advancements, etc.
Every scan you’ll take is part of someone’s health journey. It’s more than a picture, it’s a lifeline. Practice compassion
First of all lemme just high five you... virtually... for already thinking ahead about how to succeed in your radiologic technology program. That mindset alone already sets you apart.
For a few ways you can Academicaly & Clinically improve, here is what I can recommend...
1. Try to master the basics early on. Anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology are your best friends. The more fluent you are in these before your program starts, the easier it’ll be to absorb radiographic positioning and procedures.
2. Respect the Physics. Radiologic science = radiation physics + patient care. It can be intimidating, but understanding how radiation interacts with the human body helps you become a safe and smart technologist. Some admire those who actually know their way not only but told and physics too.
3. Your clinical instructors are not just teachers, they’re potential references and future colleagues. Take feedback like gold. Ask questions, be humble, and stay eager to improve. Just ultimately be coachable.
4. Between classroom work, clinical hours, and studying, your time management skills will get a workout. Create a routine, use a planner or app, and build in breaks to avoid burnout. organization is sanity.
So to stand out here is a few things you can keep in mind and start...
1. Show Up Like a Professional, From Day One. Even as a student, treat clinical rotations like a job interview. Arrive early, dress the part, keep your attitude upbeat, and communicate clearly.
2. Document Your Experience. Like you can keep a small clinical log or journal. Not only will this help you study and reflect—it’ll help you recall stories for interviews (like a time you helped a nervous patient or adapted to a tough case).
3. Being a great tech isn’t just about image quality, it’s also about people skills. Practice being calm under pressure, empathetic with patients, and assertive when advocating for their safety.
4. Get to know your classmates, instructors, and clinical site staff. Ask how they got into the field, what they wish they knew sooner, and what they look for in a new hire. People remember curiosity and kindness.
5. Pursue Certification Extras, if you are looking to it long term this can be helpful. After your degree and ARRT certification, consider getting specialized in CT, MRI, or mammography. Bonus skills means more job options and better pay.
Abraham, you’re stepping into a field that saves lives with precision and empathy. Keep your curiosity sharp, your work ethic strong, and your heart in the right place, and you’ll go far. Wishing you so much success in your journey ahead,
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.