When Michelle Wilkins started in Washtenaw Community College’s Radiography program, she hoped success would directly lead to a job in the Michigan Medicine hospital system.
“What I didn’t know was that when I finished the program I would have so many opportunities,” says Wilkins, 38. “I am fortunate and grateful for all that WCC has helped me gain.”
Wilkins attended WCC from 2019 to 2022 and is now a radiographer at the University of Michigan Hospital. She’s also worked for almost two years as a contingent employee at Beaumont Hospital.
After high school, Wilkins enrolled part-time at a four-year university, but struggled to find direction. An academic advisor provided her with a personality analysis that changed her life.
“She told me my personality matched with radiography and that I should check out WCC,” she says. “If it were not for that person, I might still be lost and confused on what I wanted out of a career.”
Wilkins credits WCC faculty for preparing her for a career and is grateful for the extra time instructors took to help her understand and grow.
“They are extraordinary," Wilkins said. "Almost every instructor went above and beyond to make sure their students felt comfortable with the material they were learning.”
Wilkins said the benefits of her WCC education are far-reaching. Classroom time coupled with clinicals and on-the-job training equipped her with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed.
“People can tell when you work hard and are struggling,” Wilkins says, adding that the positive feedback is encouraging. “When you do well, it’s greatly satisfying.”
ALLIED HEALTH PROGRAMS AT WCC
Learn more about Radiography and other Allied Health academic programs and pathways that prepare students for rewarding and in-demand jobs in the health care industry. Programs include certificates, associate degrees and post-associate certificates.
Online: wccnet.edu/allied-health
Email: [email protected]
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This story appears in the Summer 2023 edition of Launch magazine. See complete issue.
Tags: Career, Launch, Radiography, Student Success, Summer 2023, What Do You Call