4 answers
Emily
Student
Elmira, Oregon
1
Question
Updated
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What should I do in order to be successful in medical imaging programs?
My dream career has been to be an MRI technician. With this said, I often have anxieties due to how competitive pre-imaging and radiology programs can be. I am set to graduate in 2026 and attend Oregon Institute of Technology in the fall for pre-medical imaging, but I want to make sure I am prepared so I can do what's best career wise and financially. Any tips and tricks on how to do well in classes and balance working part time would be really appreciated!
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4 answers
Jessica Massimilla
Radiologic technologist
1
Answer
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi Emily!
So one thing you will learn in this field is we are technologists, not technicians! You are right that getting into an imaging program is super competitive. I’m not sure what it’s like in your state, but the program I attended in NY only accepted 22 students once a year. They look at how well you did in your pre rec classes plus my school did an in person interview. So, try your very best to get A’s in your pre rec classes. Once you get into the program, it’s going to be hard. It’s two years of non stop school and clinic. It’s a lot of information especially if you’ve never been exposed to the medical field (which was me) BUT I’ll tell you it was worth all the stress and tears. This job has so many different areas you can work in, there will always be jobs in this field, and we get paid fairly well. Working part time is definitely possible, but you will probably have no days off. But again, keeping in mind what is at the end of the journey is how I kept going. Another thing that got me through it is flash cards and practicing what you learn on family and friends to get used to positioning patients. This entire job is knowing the human anatomy, knowing what it’s supposed to look like, and having to be creative, thinking outside the box to achieve good quality images. Thinking outside the box is where I struggled most when I started because they don’t really tech you that in school, it’s just something you learn while doing real patients. This job is very hard on our bodies between moving equipment all day and lifting patients, running around the hospital. if you aren’t smart about how your doing things it will not be good long term. Another thing I didn’t realize when starting this career is that you will be in the operating room taking images for surgeons. That was the scariest thing for me, seeing how that all works was a lot. BUT if this career is something that really interests you, put your all into it and don’t give up because it will be so worth it in the end. I hope this helps! :)
So one thing you will learn in this field is we are technologists, not technicians! You are right that getting into an imaging program is super competitive. I’m not sure what it’s like in your state, but the program I attended in NY only accepted 22 students once a year. They look at how well you did in your pre rec classes plus my school did an in person interview. So, try your very best to get A’s in your pre rec classes. Once you get into the program, it’s going to be hard. It’s two years of non stop school and clinic. It’s a lot of information especially if you’ve never been exposed to the medical field (which was me) BUT I’ll tell you it was worth all the stress and tears. This job has so many different areas you can work in, there will always be jobs in this field, and we get paid fairly well. Working part time is definitely possible, but you will probably have no days off. But again, keeping in mind what is at the end of the journey is how I kept going. Another thing that got me through it is flash cards and practicing what you learn on family and friends to get used to positioning patients. This entire job is knowing the human anatomy, knowing what it’s supposed to look like, and having to be creative, thinking outside the box to achieve good quality images. Thinking outside the box is where I struggled most when I started because they don’t really tech you that in school, it’s just something you learn while doing real patients. This job is very hard on our bodies between moving equipment all day and lifting patients, running around the hospital. if you aren’t smart about how your doing things it will not be good long term. Another thing I didn’t realize when starting this career is that you will be in the operating room taking images for surgeons. That was the scariest thing for me, seeing how that all works was a lot. BUT if this career is something that really interests you, put your all into it and don’t give up because it will be so worth it in the end. I hope this helps! :)
Ashley Lowe
College Instructor/Clinical Coordinator
62
Answers
Minnesott Beach, NC
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
From my perspective as an educator in a radiography program, I’ll tell you this: yes, these programs are competitive, but they are absolutely not out of reach if you’re willing to put in the work now.
The biggest thing you can do is focus on earning the highest grades possible in your prerequisite courses. A competitive GPA and strong science grades (especially anatomy and physiology, physics, and math) are more important than anything. Work hard now so your application speaks for itself. High scores open doors. Also, truly understand the material, don’t just memorize to pass. Imaging programs move fast, and a strong foundation makes a huge difference once you’re in.
Second, do your research. Know what MRI really involves: long days on your feet, patient interaction, critical thinking, safety protocols, and high responsibility. If possible, shadow in an imaging department. The more informed you are, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel, and that shows in interviews.
As for balancing part-time work, it’s doable; many of our students work, but time management is everything. Treat school like a full-time job. Use a planner. Study a little every day instead of cramming. Protect your grades first. If you can reduce work hours once you’re in the program, that often helps.
It’s not easy. I won’t sugarcoat that. But students who are disciplined, organized, and willing to strive for excellence absolutely succeed. And once you’re on the other side, it is incredibly rewarding. If MRI is your goal, keep that vision in front of you and let it motivate your work now.
The biggest thing you can do is focus on earning the highest grades possible in your prerequisite courses. A competitive GPA and strong science grades (especially anatomy and physiology, physics, and math) are more important than anything. Work hard now so your application speaks for itself. High scores open doors. Also, truly understand the material, don’t just memorize to pass. Imaging programs move fast, and a strong foundation makes a huge difference once you’re in.
Second, do your research. Know what MRI really involves: long days on your feet, patient interaction, critical thinking, safety protocols, and high responsibility. If possible, shadow in an imaging department. The more informed you are, the more confident and prepared you’ll feel, and that shows in interviews.
As for balancing part-time work, it’s doable; many of our students work, but time management is everything. Treat school like a full-time job. Use a planner. Study a little every day instead of cramming. Protect your grades first. If you can reduce work hours once you’re in the program, that often helps.
It’s not easy. I won’t sugarcoat that. But students who are disciplined, organized, and willing to strive for excellence absolutely succeed. And once you’re on the other side, it is incredibly rewarding. If MRI is your goal, keep that vision in front of you and let it motivate your work now.
Shelley DeReu RN, BSN, CNMT
Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Registered Nurse and Clinical Research Monitor
16
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Shelley’s Answer
Hi Emily,
I completely agree with Jessica's answer. I would like to suggest that you search online, XRay Technology Terminology, Radiation safety for Radiographers, and get familiar with the radiation safety terminology such as roentgen, REMs, Sieverts to familiarize yourself with the terms so you can recognize the new language you will be learning. My assumption is you will have to understand general Imaging modalities before you can choose your specialty.
Search online MRI physics, how do MRI coils work, what and how does MRI contrast work, show, and/or how expelled from the body. MRI suite safety zones. What type of MRI scanners are used? T2, T3? What software is used for MRI scanner study processing, What does an MRI of the brain, spine, pelvis, breast.. etc, show? Why would or wouldn't an MRI be done? What types of metals can enter the MRI suite? Get to know general facts about MRI, so you show how interested you are in becoming a Technologist and be able to recognize a term or concept as you begin your journey.
Be interested, polite, personally clean, kind, respectful and understanding of everyone you encounter in your imaging program. You are auditioning for a job while you are in school. You don't have to be the smartest but you do need to be organized, engaged in learning and enjoyable to be around. These people will help you get your first job. There is no better recommendation that one from a Technologist.
Believe in yourself and those who are teaching you. They want you to succeed.
Good luck to you Emily.
I completely agree with Jessica's answer. I would like to suggest that you search online, XRay Technology Terminology, Radiation safety for Radiographers, and get familiar with the radiation safety terminology such as roentgen, REMs, Sieverts to familiarize yourself with the terms so you can recognize the new language you will be learning. My assumption is you will have to understand general Imaging modalities before you can choose your specialty.
Search online MRI physics, how do MRI coils work, what and how does MRI contrast work, show, and/or how expelled from the body. MRI suite safety zones. What type of MRI scanners are used? T2, T3? What software is used for MRI scanner study processing, What does an MRI of the brain, spine, pelvis, breast.. etc, show? Why would or wouldn't an MRI be done? What types of metals can enter the MRI suite? Get to know general facts about MRI, so you show how interested you are in becoming a Technologist and be able to recognize a term or concept as you begin your journey.
Be interested, polite, personally clean, kind, respectful and understanding of everyone you encounter in your imaging program. You are auditioning for a job while you are in school. You don't have to be the smartest but you do need to be organized, engaged in learning and enjoyable to be around. These people will help you get your first job. There is no better recommendation that one from a Technologist.
Believe in yourself and those who are teaching you. They want you to succeed.
Good luck to you Emily.
Elyse Crotty
Certified Surgical Technologist
58
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
Working and going to school at the same time can be tough, but it can also be very rewarding. Practice good self care habits, prioritize study time, and call on your support system if needed. You got this!