3 answers
vanessa
Student
1
Question
Asked
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Would it be possible for me to keep a full time job while studying for my radiology program?
I never thought myself to smart enough for a health care, my program only accepts 20 people every year but this is something I've always wanted to do.
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3 answers
Paul Jones
School counselor/college counselor
3
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Vanessa,
The short answer is no. There have been quite a few studies on the relationship between work and study. Most have found that working more than 10–12 hours per week is detrimental to a student’s learning and performance. Students working more than that are more likely to drop out, too. I would think that the risk for students in a program as demanding as radiology would be even higher.
My advice is to make the most of your time at college, which is a time to learn and grow. You will most likely spend the rest of your life working.
All the best,
Mr. Jones
The short answer is no. There have been quite a few studies on the relationship between work and study. Most have found that working more than 10–12 hours per week is detrimental to a student’s learning and performance. Students working more than that are more likely to drop out, too. I would think that the risk for students in a program as demanding as radiology would be even higher.
My advice is to make the most of your time at college, which is a time to learn and grow. You will most likely spend the rest of your life working.
All the best,
Mr. Jones
Jeremy Enfinger, BS, ARRT(R), CRT(F)
Clinical Manager
1
Answer
San Diego, California
Updated
Jeremy’s Answer
Nine times out of ten, I would advise against working full-time if possible during any radiography program. The amount of study required is going to be far greater than your general education and the clinical portion can be physically demanding at times. That said, I attended my radiography program from 1998-2000 and worked full-time hours (40 hours per week via two part-time jobs) for a majority of it (not all), but certain very specific atypical circumstances applied in my case that allowed for this.
First, I was young (early 20's) and in extremely good physical shape back then having run 10 miles a day for the college cross country team, which I had to give up during my radiography program. Next, the types of jobs I had allowed me to study while working. I wouldn't have had the time I needed for the amount of studying required if this were not the case. Finally, I had support from my parents for a majority of the program. The only bills I had to pay were for my car, gas, insurance, and my internet access. I moved out toward the end of my program, but shared a room with a friend at a very low cost that was manageable.
I consider myself extremely fortunate to have attended radiography school at the time I did, with the support I had in place. Had I attempted it today, I'd have a family to provide for, more limitations with my schedule, and more financial obligations that could have possibly prevented me from entertaining the option.
I have been teaching in JRCERT-accredited radiography programs for over 20 years now and my students have been various ages and at different points in their professional lives. Some are young and energetic like I was. Others are a little older and are attempting a career change. Each of them have unique circumstances that often need to be reprioritized for the duration of their programs. Most worked part-time in some capacity and few successful students have worked full-time jobs at the same time. Depending on your energy level and resilience, keep in mind that two years is an extremely long time to burn the candle at both ends. Just because it can be done doesn't mean it's the best road to success and I would still recommend avoiding full-time hours to get the most out of your education if you have the option.
In any case, I've never regretted my decision to become a radiologic technologist. It's been an amazing career choice that has paid for itself over and over again, while leading to so many different opportunities for advancement. Good luck in your studies!
Find some support. You have a challenging two years ahead of you and you may need someone to lean on physically, emotionally, or financially.
Find a job that allows you to study. I worked for a community center where we cleaned up at the end of the shift. A friend drove a limo and had time while he waited for clients in the parking lot for hours
Form a study group early on through something like Discord or Slack where information can be exchanged when convenient.
Consider part-time work with flexible hours, perhaps where tips can be earned. You'll need to study harder some weeks compared to others.
Talk to new or recent graduates in the radiography programs you are considering locally to get a sense of demands for time required.
First, I was young (early 20's) and in extremely good physical shape back then having run 10 miles a day for the college cross country team, which I had to give up during my radiography program. Next, the types of jobs I had allowed me to study while working. I wouldn't have had the time I needed for the amount of studying required if this were not the case. Finally, I had support from my parents for a majority of the program. The only bills I had to pay were for my car, gas, insurance, and my internet access. I moved out toward the end of my program, but shared a room with a friend at a very low cost that was manageable.
I consider myself extremely fortunate to have attended radiography school at the time I did, with the support I had in place. Had I attempted it today, I'd have a family to provide for, more limitations with my schedule, and more financial obligations that could have possibly prevented me from entertaining the option.
I have been teaching in JRCERT-accredited radiography programs for over 20 years now and my students have been various ages and at different points in their professional lives. Some are young and energetic like I was. Others are a little older and are attempting a career change. Each of them have unique circumstances that often need to be reprioritized for the duration of their programs. Most worked part-time in some capacity and few successful students have worked full-time jobs at the same time. Depending on your energy level and resilience, keep in mind that two years is an extremely long time to burn the candle at both ends. Just because it can be done doesn't mean it's the best road to success and I would still recommend avoiding full-time hours to get the most out of your education if you have the option.
In any case, I've never regretted my decision to become a radiologic technologist. It's been an amazing career choice that has paid for itself over and over again, while leading to so many different opportunities for advancement. Good luck in your studies!
Jeremy recommends the following next steps:
Lauren Cranford
Occupational Therapy Assistant
3
Answers
Pensacola, Florida
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Hello Vanessa,
I would suggest that it might not be the best idea. The majority, if not all, healthcare programs are quite challenging and demand your full attention. In fact, numerous programs explicitly mention in their admission guidelines that they recommend students not to maintain employment while enrolled. I hope this guidance is beneficial for you. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Wishing you all the very best on your journey!
-Lauren
I would suggest that it might not be the best idea. The majority, if not all, healthcare programs are quite challenging and demand your full attention. In fact, numerous programs explicitly mention in their admission guidelines that they recommend students not to maintain employment while enrolled. I hope this guidance is beneficial for you. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Wishing you all the very best on your journey!
-Lauren