14 GRADUATE FROM BLINN’S RADIOLOGIC TECH PROGRAM
Fourteen future radiologic technologists were recognized in a pinning ceremony Thursday after completing Blinn College’s rigorous Radiologic Technology Program.
Program graduates learn a multitude of imaging methods and must have extensive knowledge and understanding of the human body for comprehensive patient care. They must also have an in-depth understanding of medical informatics, computers, medical physics and radiobiology. Students must achieve a 3.0 grade point average or better in all academic courses for the degree plan.
Approximately 20 students are accepted to the program each semester based on market demand. Limited enrollment ensures a quality learning experience including hands-on training in local healthcare facilities.
The Spring 2014 graduating class included: Nolan Waddell (Columbus), Erica Reeves (Ganado), Sarah Silvis (Needville), Andres Monreal (Caldwell), Fernando Valdes (Saltillo, Mexico), Amber Bailey (Harker Heights), Georgia Brown (Fredericksburg), Lindsey Gibson (Palestine), Sunil Ali (Karachi, Pakistan), Russell Poling (College Station), Jasmine Jonse (Waco), Halie Albanese (Nederland), Joshua Hoyt (Normangee) and Riley Vaclavik (Fairfield).
Within two weeks of beginning the program, students start volunteering at local healthcare facilities across the Brazos Valley as part of their coursework. At clinical sites, students are evaluated daily by their clinical supervisors on their understanding of radiologic technology, willingness to learn, professionalism and patient care.
With an Associate of Applied Sciences degree, students can earn a starting salary around $35,000. With additional training and education, a graduate can significantly increase their earnings by specializing in computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound and radiation therapy. The program has a 100 percent job placement rate since 1994.
“Regardless of how many groups I graduate, each one seems to go above and beyond my expectations,” said Shelley Pearson, interim director of the Radiologic Technology Program. “I love that I’ve been a part of their education process, watching them grow from students to professionals. I could not be more proud.”
Blinn’s Division of Health Sciences, based at the Texas A&M Health Science Center, offers associate degree nursing, dental hygiene, emergency medical services, physical therapist assistant, radiologic technology, fire science, therapeutics manufacturing, veterinary technology and vocational nursing programs designed to train students for high-demand professions.
In addition to its campuses in Brenham, Bryan, Schulenburg and Sealy, Blinn teaches online courses, dual credit for high school and prepares students for quick employment through its career and technical certification programs. Registration is now available for Blinn’s May minimester (May 12-28) as well as the Summer I, Summer II and Fall semesters. For enrollment information and to learn about financial aid opportunities, visit: www.blinn.edu. Story and photo courtesy of Blinn College.
