Be Cool and Be Rad

2020 marks 100 years of The American Society of Radiologic Technologists. The ASRT’s mission is, “to advance the medical imaging and radiation therapy profession and to enhance the quality of patient care.” In celebration of National Radiologic Technologist Week (November 8-14), Radiologic Technology Program Director, Melanie Hail shared her experience entering the radiology field.

How did you first become interested in radiology?   

I originally wanted to go to vet school or be an Ag Teacher but it did not feel like the right path at the time. I met several RT and Nursing students in my college classes and became interested in radiology after taking A&P for a Science credit.

What was your first impression of the medical imaging community?

I wandered over to the Allied Health Building at Angelina College and asked if someone had a few minutes to talk with about the Radiologic Technology Program.  I remember thinking at the time, “Oh, taking pictures of bones. That sounds cool!” Little did I know there was so much more than that. After Radiologic Technology Instructor, Ms. Judy Wells, spoke with me and gave me an overview of what a Radiologic Technologist really does. I thought, “What I am getting myself into here?” Injections, Barium Enemas, critical patient care, OR, trauma radiography, and more. I am so happy I “wandered” over there that day. It truly has been my calling ever since. 

Why did you decide to become a Radiologic Technologist?  

After graduation, I found that my learning new things was far from over. New types of equipment, procedures, projections, and a whole other level of patient care that I had not experienced before.  Exciting, at times nerve-racking, and true confidence building, all at the same time.  From outpatients to trauma, FT, PT, long hours of call, to mammography, then on to becoming an educator, to a clinical coordinator, to a program director, the 27+ year road has been full of surprises.  As a Radiologic Technologist, we have endless opportunities that we can choose.

I hope each of take time to stay active in your local, state, and national radiography societies.  Being a part of something so much bigger than yourself is so important in maintaining standards for the profession and ultimately provide high-quality patient care to all patients. A membership is much more than completing your continuing education each year.

Until next time, BE COOL AND BE RAD!!

Melanie Hail, RT(R)(M)

The College of Health Care Professions offers a variety of radiologic technology certificate and degree programs:

• Limited Medical Radiologic Technology with Medical Assistant Skills Certificate Program
• Radiologic Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree Completion Program 
• Radiologic Science Management Bachelor's Degree