What interested you in becoming a technologist?
A guidance counselor at Lorain County Community College suggested I take a career test. A career test takes into account your personality and interests and then applies that information to various professional jobs. The counselor said if I choose a profession that I score high in that I will be happy with my job. One of the professions in which I received a high score was technology. The counselor suggested ultrasound technology. I shadowed the profession and found it very fascinating.
What physical and/or soft skills do you need to have to succeed?
The physical skills a technologist needs are strength, stamina, and flexibility.
Soft skills a technologist needs to succeed are motivation, a proactive attitude, leadership abilities, and the ability to teach others.
What advice would you give interested high school students?
I would advise a student to shadow an ultrasound technologist/sonographer for a day preferably at a large institution where they have both inpatients and outpatients.
What interested you in working at Cleveland Clinic?
The vascular laboratory at Cleveland Clinic is one of the largest in the country. Being able to train and work with the best is an opportunity of a lifetime. I also have family and friends that work here on Main campus, so it is nice to see a familiar face in the hallways.
What excites you about working as a technologist?
I enjoy helping others whether it is a student learning how to scan, mentoring colleagues to help them achieve their goals, or helping out a co-worker with a difficult exam.
What has been your most gratifying experience as a technologist?
I have two gratifying experiences that stand out in my mind. The first was when I received my first publication in a national journal. The other experience was when my superiors nominated me for the Cleveland Clinic Allied Health Educator’s Award in 2009. There were 23 nominations, and I was one of the five people that won!
What career options do you have as a technologist?
As in many medical fields, there are various career opportunities available. Our department offers positions such as lead technologist, research technologist, and supervisory positions. Other career options include working for a company that sells ultrasound equipment or working at a college that teaches ultrasound.
Learn More
- Vascular sonography technology programs affiliated with Cleveland Clinic.
- Visit the vascular sonography technology profile for more about this career path.
