Showcasing Imaging Sciences: My Sonography Journey

Embarking on a career in sonography is not just about mastering the technology; it’s about understanding the profound impact that imaging sciences have on patient care. My journey into this fascinating field has been filled with challenges, learning experiences, and moments of inspiration. In this blog post, I will share my personal story, the skills I developed, and the insights I gained along the way.

A sonography machine ready for use in a clinical environment.

The Beginning of My Journey

My interest in medical imaging began as a teenager, when I was hospitalized with an acute illness at a children’s hospital in Atlanta. I was in kidney failure from strep throat (post-streptococcal acute glomerulonephritis, PSGN), though at the time I didn’t fully grasp how serious my condition was.

The experience was terrifying — many of the children around me were critically ill with various illnesses, and some did not survive. It was a harsh and unforgettable reality that left a lasting impression. In the midst of that difficult time, I witnessed the vital role that medical imaging played in diagnosis and treatment. That experience planted the seed for my future career, inspiring me to pursue a path where I could contribute to patient care through imaging sciences.

Every time I encountered someone from the imaging department, they made the experience less intimidating. They took time to explain what they were doing, how it would feel, and what to expect. Their calm, compassionate approach left a lasting impression on me.

Years later, during my clinicals in radiologic technology school, I discovered my love for sonography — and I’ve never looked back. I was captivated by the idea of using sound waves to create real-time images of the human body. The challenge of identifying clinical diagnoses while maintaining a calm, reassuring presence for the patient is one I embrace. I love the balance of technical skill, emotional intelligence, and quiet responsibility.

The thought that I could play a role in diagnosing and treating patients through non-invasive methods — and be a meaningful part of their journey — is incredibly fulfilling.

Choosing the Right Program

When I chose to pursue radiologic technology, I knew I wanted to remain close to home. I applied to the nearest program, where I met Dr. Susan D. West, the director. During my interview, she asked what I would do if I wasn’t accepted that year, since I had placed all my hopes on one application. With confidence, I explained that I’d spend the year working, buy jet skis, enjoy time on the lake, and then reapply to her program as well as others in nearby towns. Imaging was the career I wanted, and I was determined to follow that path—even if it required a brief detour filled with sunshine and horsepower. Later, when Dr. West called with her decision, she asked if I wanted to know whether I had been accepted. I said yes, and she replied with a laugh, “Well, you won’t be buying jet skis this year.” I got in.

During clinicals, I discovered my love for sonography. In the 2000s, before remote learning was an option, there was only one local sonography program. It was led by Dr. Jody Love, who had an outstanding reputation for her program, pass rates, and job placement. Even if I hadn’t been local, her program would have been my choice. She was an amazing, compassionate professor who inspired my love for learning and sonography. Her passion for the field was contagious, and under her guidance, I even discovered a hidden love for physics I never knew existed.

My first clinical rotation in echocardiography was unforgettable. The moment I saw the heart beating in real time, I knew I was in a field I would be passionate about forever. The ability to watch life unfold through sound waves was both humbling and inspiring.

Over the years, some of the most meaningful moments have been when patients returned to thank me for saving their lives. Two outpatient cases stand out, reminding me why vigilance matters. One patient was eager to leave her appointment to spend time with visiting family, but her images revealed an unsuspected, completely occluded aorta. Without alerting her of imminent danger, I calmly left the room to ask the interpreting physician to review, and she was transferred immediately for life-saving surgery. Another came in for a routine echocardiogram, where I identified a massive aneurysm well beyond rupture risk. Again, I kept my composure, ensured the cardiologist reviewed the study, and the patient was quickly referred for cardiothoracic surgical consultation. These moments underscore how imaging can change lives in an instant.

Those encounters, like so many others over the years, are deeply touching and, without a doubt, remind me that I chose the right career path. Sonography is not just a profession for me — it is a calling that combines science, compassion, and the privilege of being part of someone’s healing journey.

Dr. Love’s program combined rigorous theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical training, which I found essential to my growth. When choosing my program, I focused on several key factors — and these are the same elements I look forward to implementing in a program of my own in the future:

• Accreditation: Ensuring the program was accredited by a recognized body was crucial to building a strong career foundation.

  
  

• Clinical Experience: I wanted a program that offered ample opportunities for real-world practice, where students could apply classroom learning directly to patient care.

  
  

• Faculty Expertise: Learning from experienced, passionate professionals in the field was a priority, and their mentorship shaped both my skills and my love for sonography.

  
  

The Learning Experience

As I delved deeper into the world of sonography, I encountered various subjects that expanded my understanding of imaging sciences.

Core Subjects in Sonography

1. Anatomy and Physiology: A solid grasp of human anatomy was vital. I had a strong foundation from radiology school, but in sonography, we take that knowledge into the world of three dimensions. Understanding how organs function, where they are located, and how they connect made learning more engaging and intuitive. Being able to identify organs in 3-D gave me the ability to interpret ultrasound images with accuracy and confidence.

   
   

2. Ultrasound Physics: This subject introduced the principles of sound waves and how they interact with different tissues. It was fascinating to see how these principles translate into the images on the screen. Unlike X-rays, sound waves require a medium to travel. I found it helpful to connect physics concepts to everyday experiences — relating blood flow to the hemodynamics of river currents, or Doppler angles to radar guns used for speeding tickets. Dr. Love's analogies made complex principles easier to understand and more relatable. They even sparked a hidden love for physics I hadn’t expected.

   
   

3. Clinical Procedures: Hands-on experience was invaluable. I learned to operate ultrasound equipment, position patients correctly, and perform a wide range of scans — including abdominal, vascular, and cardiac studies. These experiences not only strengthened my technical skills but also allowed me to interact with radiologists, cardiologists, and other medical professionals. Collaborating with them built my confidence and reinforced the importance of teamwork in patient care.

   
   

Building Skills

Throughout my training, I developed several essential skills that would serve me well in my career:

• Technical Proficiency: Mastering ultrasound equipment was critical to my training. I spent countless hours practicing to ensure I could operate the machine with confidence. Being a sonographer demonstrates just how powerful muscle memory can be — often working in dimly lit rooms, focused on the anatomy displayed on the screen, while my hands instinctively navigate the keyboard and control panel without looking down. This skill allows me to stay fully engaged with both the patient and the diagnostic process.

  
  

• Communication: Equally important was learning to communicate effectively. Interacting with patients and explaining procedures helped ease their anxiety and built trust. At the same time, I learned to share preliminary findings with interpreting physicians in a clear, professional manner. Balancing these two roles — maintaining a friendly, everyday conversation with the patient while recognizing and documenting complex pathology — taught me the value of compassion, clarity, and professionalism in every clinical setting.

  
  

• Critical Thinking: Analyzing images and making quick, accurate decisions was a skill I honed during my clinical rotations, and it has become a cornerstone of my professional reputation. In high-stress environments — such as interventional cardiac procedures in the Cath lab — seconds matter. Knowing how to adjust equipment settings on the spot requires sharp technical skills, keen judgment, and composure under pressure.

  Critical thinking in sonography is more than interpreting images; it’s anticipating what the physician needs, adapting to rapidly changing circumstances, and ensuring patient safety while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. These experiences taught me to trust my training, rely on my instincts, and remain calm in situations where precision and speed are equally vital.

  
  

Clinical Rotations: A Real-World Experience

One of the most rewarding aspects of my education was the clinical rotations. These experiences allowed me to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings and to learn directly from seasoned professionals. They were the bridge between theory and practice, shaping both my technical skills and my confidence as a sonographer.

Diverse Environments

During my rotations, I had the privilege of working in a variety of healthcare settings, each offering unique challenges and lessons:

• Hospitals: I gained experience in high-pressure environments, performing scans on patients with diverse and often complex medical conditions. These rotations taught me how to stay composed and precise under stress.

  
  

• Outpatient Clinics: In outpatient settings, I developed my skills in a more relaxed atmosphere, focusing on routine scans and building rapport with patients.

  
  

• Specialty Clinics: I also spent time in specialty areas, including vascular surgery and cardiology, where I learned to perform specialized ultrasound procedures. These rotations deepened my appreciation for the versatility of sonography and its impact across different fields of medicine.

Learning from Mentors

Throughout my rotations, I was fortunate to work alongside experienced sonographers who served as mentors on my journey. They provided invaluable guidance, sharing practical tips and techniques that strengthened both my imaging skills and my ability to connect with patients.

I took something unique from every technologist I worked under — whether it was a subtle adjustment in scanning technique, a way to ease patient anxiety, or a professional insight into workflow. Even today, when I apply those skills, I remember the special role each mentor played in shaping my growth. Their influence continues to guide me, reminding me that sonography is not only about technology but also about compassion, precision, and the wisdom passed down from those who came before me.

Challenges Faced

While my journey was largely positive, it was not without its challenges.

Overcoming Obstacles

1. Technical Difficulties: I encountered various technical issues with ultrasound machines, requiring quick thinking and problem-solving to resolve. Maintaining composure in front of patients was essential — they should never feel the stress of the situation, only the confidence that their care is in capable hands.

   
   

2. Emotional Situations: Working with patients who were anxious or in pain was emotionally taxing, but it taught me the importance of empathy and strength. I learned how to stay composed when someone’s world was falling apart in front of me. Many times, I stood beside patients and families as they received critical diagnoses. After the physician left, they often turned to me for clarification in simpler terms. Conveying that information with compassion, precision, and professionalism while maintaining composure is one of the most meaningful aspects of my role.

   
   

3. Time Management: Balancing studies, clinical rotations, and personal life was challenging, but it strengthened my time management skills. I learned how to prioritize, stay organized, and meet commitments without compromising the quality of my work or my care for patients.

   
   

The Role of Technology in Sonography

As I progressed in my studies, I became increasingly aware of the role technology plays in imaging sciences.

Advancements in Ultrasound Technology

Over the course of my career, I’ve watched imaging advance from dark rooms and printed films to daylight processors, to computed radiography (CR), and finally to digital radiography, with images sent virtually at the touch of a button. Each step forward has transformed the way we diagnose and care for patients. Sonography, in particular, continues to evolve with new technologies that enhance diagnostic capabilities and expand the reach of patient care. Some notable advancements include:

• 3D and 4D Imaging: These technologies provide highly detailed images, allowing for better visualization of structures and improved diagnostic accuracy. Seeing anatomy in motion through 4D imaging has opened new possibilities in obstetrics, cardiology, and beyond.

  
  

• Portable Ultrasound Devices: The development of portable ultrasound machines has made it possible to perform scans in diverse settings, including emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, and even remote locations. This mobility ensures that patients can receive timely imaging regardless of where they are.

  
  

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is increasingly used in image analysis, helping sonographers identify abnormalities more quickly and accurately. It also helps with measurements, making them more precise and efficient, which increases workflow speed and consistency. While technology can never replace the human touch, it offers powerful tools to support clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.

  
  

The Importance of Continuing Education

As I completed my program, I realized that my education was just the beginning. The field of sonography requires ongoing learning to stay current with advancements and best practices.

Pursuing Certifications

I decided to pursue additional certifications to enhance my qualifications. These certifications not only strengthened my skills but also increased my employability and broadened my career opportunities. Some certifications I have obtained include:

• Professional Certifications

  
  

  • RT(R) (Registered Radiologic Technologist): Foundation in radiology and imaging sciences.

  • RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer): Demonstrates proficiency in sonography.

  • RVT (Registered Vascular Technologist): Specialization in vascular ultrasound, opening additional career pathways.

  • RDCS (Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer): Focused expertise in cardiac imaging.

    
    

• Academic Achievements

  
  

  • Class President in both radiology and sonography programs

  • Clinical Excellence Award in both programs

  • Exemplary Sonographer Award in the sonography program

  • Delivered graduation speeches for both programs

  • Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology

  • BS in Imaging Science with Leadership Focus, Magna Cum Laude

  • Currently pursuing M.Ed. in Adult and Career Education.

  
  

• Professional Development

  
  

  I have continually sought opportunities to expand my knowledge and stay current with advancements in imaging and sonography. Some of the professional development experiences that have enriched my career include:

  
  

  • Sidney Edelman Courses: Attended the intensive All Physics Weekend and specialized training seminars in Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

  • Phillips 3D Imaging Essentials Conference: Focused on adult cardiac sonography and advanced imaging techniques.

  • iMAGINE Seminar (Piedmont): Attended multiple weekend seminars over the years, gaining updated insights into imaging practices and innovations.

  • Social Media Marketing Certification (HubSpot Academy): Developed skills in communication and outreach, complementing my leadership and education goals.

  
  

Networking and Professional Development

I am a proud member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS). These professional organizations have been invaluable for networking, accessing resources, and staying connected to the broader imaging community.

Through conferences, workshops, and continuing education opportunities, I’ve been able to connect with other professionals, exchange knowledge, and stay informed about the latest developments in the field. Membership has not only supported my growth as a sonographer but also reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

The Impact of Sonography on Patient Care

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a sonographer is the direct impact I have on patient care.

Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy

Sonography plays a crucial role in diagnosing various medical conditions. By providing real-time images, sonographers help physicians make informed decisions about patient treatment.

Building Patient Relationships

Establishing rapport with patients is essential. I strive to create a comfortable environment where patients feel at ease during their scans. This not only improves their experience but also enhances the quality of the images obtained.

Looking Ahead: My Future in Sonography

As I reflect on my journey thus far, I am excited about the future of my career in sonography.

Setting Goals

I have set several professional goals for myself, including:

• Specializing: While I am already proficient in multiple modalities, I am considering specializing in obstetrics to become a more well-rounded educator.

  
  

• Leadership Roles: I aspire to take on leadership roles by utilizing my Leadership Focus degree from AdventHealth University. My goal is to mentor new sonographers, guiding them as they develop both technical skills and professional confidence. Leadership in sonography is not only about managing workflows — it’s about fostering a culture of excellence, compassion, and continuous learning.

  
  

  By contributing to the development of best practices, I hope to strengthen the profession and ensure that patient-centered care remains at the heart of imaging. As I transition into education, I look forward to combining my clinical experience, academic achievements, and leadership training to inspire the next generation of imaging professionals.

  
  

• Advocacy: I am committed to advocating for the importance of sonography in patient care and raising awareness about the value of imaging sciences. Sonography is more than a diagnostic tool — it is a vital part of a patient’s health journey, offering real-time insights that guide treatment and improve outcomes.

  
  

Final Thoughts

My journey in sonography has been transformative, shaping not only my career but also my perspective on healthcare. The skills I have developed and the experiences I have gained have prepared me for a fulfilling career in imaging sciences.

As I continue to grow and learn in this field, I am reminded of the profound impact that sonography has on patients' lives. I encourage anyone considering a career in this field to embrace the challenges and rewards that come with it. The journey may be demanding, but the opportunity to make a difference in patient care is truly invaluable.