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What are some important things to know for becoming an x-ray/heath technician in the future ?
I am in currently in junior high, and i am trying to find the right career for me.
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Aisha’s Answer
Thinking about your future career in junior high is fantastic! Here's some helpful information about becoming an x-ray or health technician:
Education Path
- Finish High School: Get your diploma or GED.
- Complete a Certification Program: Most jobs require a two-year program in radiologic technology or health tech at a community college or technical school.
- Get Certified: Pass a certification exam like the ARRT to become certified.
Skills to Build Now
- Science and Math: Do well in biology, chemistry, and math; these subjects are important.
- Attention to Detail: Being precise is crucial in medical imaging.
- Communication: You'll interact with patients and healthcare teams.
- Technical Skills: Be comfortable with technology and equipment.
Job Responsibilities
- Use imaging equipment like X-rays and CT scans.
- Help patients with positioning safely.
- Follow safety rules, especially for radiation.
- Keep equipment and records in order.
- Work in places like hospitals or clinics.
Steps to Take
- Talk to Professionals: Connect with x-ray technicians to learn about their work.
- Shadowing Opportunities: Look for programs where you can observe professionals in action.
- Take Relevant Classes: If available, join health sciences or medical tech courses at your school.
- Stay Curious: Discover how medical imaging aids doctors in treating patients.
This career offers stability and growth. Keep doing well in your STEM subjects, and you'll be on the right path!
Education Path
- Finish High School: Get your diploma or GED.
- Complete a Certification Program: Most jobs require a two-year program in radiologic technology or health tech at a community college or technical school.
- Get Certified: Pass a certification exam like the ARRT to become certified.
Skills to Build Now
- Science and Math: Do well in biology, chemistry, and math; these subjects are important.
- Attention to Detail: Being precise is crucial in medical imaging.
- Communication: You'll interact with patients and healthcare teams.
- Technical Skills: Be comfortable with technology and equipment.
Job Responsibilities
- Use imaging equipment like X-rays and CT scans.
- Help patients with positioning safely.
- Follow safety rules, especially for radiation.
- Keep equipment and records in order.
- Work in places like hospitals or clinics.
Steps to Take
- Talk to Professionals: Connect with x-ray technicians to learn about their work.
- Shadowing Opportunities: Look for programs where you can observe professionals in action.
- Take Relevant Classes: If available, join health sciences or medical tech courses at your school.
- Stay Curious: Discover how medical imaging aids doctors in treating patients.
This career offers stability and growth. Keep doing well in your STEM subjects, and you'll be on the right path!
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
As a rad tech, you can work in a variety of settings. Remember all the different options out there that are available to you.
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
I’m going to be real with you, becoming an X-ray (radiologic) technologist is not easy. It’s hard work. The classes are science-heavy, the clinical training is intense, and you’re expected to be responsible and professional very quickly. But if you’re willing to work for it, it is absolutely worth it in the end.
Some important things to know:
First, you need a strong foundation in science and math. Anatomy, physics, and patient care are big parts of the program. So while you’re in junior high and high school, focus on doing well in biology, algebra, and any health science classes you can take. The study habits you build now matter more than you think.
Second, this job is hands-on and people-centered. You’ll work directly with patients every day, helping them move, positioning them for images, calming nervous patients, and sometimes working with people who are in pain. You have to be compassionate, patient, and confident.
Third, you’ll go through a college program (usually about 2 years after prerequisites) and then pass a national board exam to become certified. It’s competitive in many areas, so good grades and strong work ethic are important.
It’s not the “easy route.” But it’s stable, meaningful, and rewarding. You’re part of the team that helps doctors diagnose injuries and diseases. That matters. If you start preparing now, stay disciplined, and really commit to it, you can absolutely do it.
Some important things to know:
First, you need a strong foundation in science and math. Anatomy, physics, and patient care are big parts of the program. So while you’re in junior high and high school, focus on doing well in biology, algebra, and any health science classes you can take. The study habits you build now matter more than you think.
Second, this job is hands-on and people-centered. You’ll work directly with patients every day, helping them move, positioning them for images, calming nervous patients, and sometimes working with people who are in pain. You have to be compassionate, patient, and confident.
Third, you’ll go through a college program (usually about 2 years after prerequisites) and then pass a national board exam to become certified. It’s competitive in many areas, so good grades and strong work ethic are important.
It’s not the “easy route.” But it’s stable, meaningful, and rewarding. You’re part of the team that helps doctors diagnose injuries and diseases. That matters. If you start preparing now, stay disciplined, and really commit to it, you can absolutely do it.
Updated
Isida’s Answer
Hello Taylor,
Your question has gone through my weekly mail, and you are like a mentor for me. Blessing always follows you!
Even though I don’t personally work in radiology or medical imaging, I want to encourage you about the path of becoming an X-ray health technician. It’s a profession that plays a vital role in healthcare—helping doctors see what’s happening inside the body and supporting patients in moments when answers are most needed.
From what I’ve learned, this career combines technical skill with compassion. You’ll be working with advanced imaging equipment, but also with people who may be anxious or in pain. That means communication and empathy are just as important as the technical side.
A few encouragements as you consider this path:
Impact: Every scan you perform contributes directly to diagnosing and treating patients. Your work makes a difference every single day.
Growth: Healthcare is always evolving, and imaging technology keeps advancing. That means you’ll have opportunities to keep learning and growing.
Stability: Medical imaging is in demand worldwide, offering strong job security and flexibility in different healthcare settings.
If you’re motivated by helping others and enjoy learning new skills, this profession could be a great fit. Even if the journey feels challenging at times, remember that the skills you gain will be valuable and respected. Keep your curiosity alive, seek mentors in the field, and don’t be afraid to ask questions—those steps will help you thrive.
Hope it helps!
Your question has gone through my weekly mail, and you are like a mentor for me. Blessing always follows you!
Even though I don’t personally work in radiology or medical imaging, I want to encourage you about the path of becoming an X-ray health technician. It’s a profession that plays a vital role in healthcare—helping doctors see what’s happening inside the body and supporting patients in moments when answers are most needed.
From what I’ve learned, this career combines technical skill with compassion. You’ll be working with advanced imaging equipment, but also with people who may be anxious or in pain. That means communication and empathy are just as important as the technical side.
A few encouragements as you consider this path:
Impact: Every scan you perform contributes directly to diagnosing and treating patients. Your work makes a difference every single day.
Growth: Healthcare is always evolving, and imaging technology keeps advancing. That means you’ll have opportunities to keep learning and growing.
Stability: Medical imaging is in demand worldwide, offering strong job security and flexibility in different healthcare settings.
If you’re motivated by helping others and enjoy learning new skills, this profession could be a great fit. Even if the journey feels challenging at times, remember that the skills you gain will be valuable and respected. Keep your curiosity alive, seek mentors in the field, and don’t be afraid to ask questions—those steps will help you thrive.
Hope it helps!