You’ve recently earned a certificate, a bachelor’s degree, or a master’s degree in your chosen field. You feel on top of the world and ready to take the next step in your career.
What really matters out there in the real world and what should you focus on so that you can continue to advance in the healthcare field while keeping the needs and concerns of patients front and center?
Several members of AHU Online’s faculty have taken the time to offer their advice to our most recent group of graduates. Check out what they have to say.
Remember: You Matter
“Never underestimate all the wonderful things you are capable of, the impact of your dreams and ideas, and the unique place you hold in this world.” – Bobbie Konter; BSRS Adjunct Faculty
When you’re working long days, and it seems as if the challenges won’t stop coming, take a few minutes to remember that who you are, and the work you are doing is essential. It might not seem like it right now, but you’re having a positive effect on someone’s life.
There’s More to Healthcare Than Medicine
“Being an imaging professional is so much more than just ensuring you produce quality images, it is the opportunity to touch many people’s lives and making them feel like they are the only patient on your schedule today.” – Jena Heflin; BSRS Program Director
“Our healthcare industry needs leaders who are well-equipped to guide others into the next era of medicine. To stand out, you must exhibit qualities such as courage, compassion, and conscientiousness.” – Dr. Amanda Raffenaud; Healthcare Administration
Working in healthcare requires a combination of hard and soft skills. Medical knowledge is a must but so is having empathy for the people you are working with and the courage to speak up when something doesn’t seem right. Focus on developing your “people skills”, and you’ll stand out.
Don’t Underestimate the Value of Education
“You never know where your career path can take you. Furthering your education can open up opportunities you never knew existed.” – Kelly Mumbert; BSDMS Coordinator
Careers tend to be long and tend to follow a winding path. Today, you might be a nurse; tomorrow you might be a healthcare executive. Don’t be shy about pursuing additional education to help you advance your career and to help you become a leader in the healthcare field.
When it comes to opportunities to learn something new, never say no!
Take a Wholistic Approach to Patient Care
“As nurses, we have the opportunity to heal the heart, mind, soul, and body of our patients, their families, and ourselves. They may not remember your name, but they will never forget the way you made them feel.” – Dr. Lynelle Callender; Vice Chair for Online Nursing (adapted from Maya Angelou)
Always remember that your patients are people and that they deserve your respect, empathy, and care. The nurse or technologist who takes the time to show a patient that you care and that they are more to you than just a chart will have a profound effect not only on their current experience but on how they view the healthcare field.
