Alumnus finds new career with help from WCC
Sometimes life takes people to unexpected places. After graduating from Eastern Michigan University in 1995, Eric Lionquist found himself with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a job working in a production plant for a local auto manufacturer.
“I was 22 years old and I had a daughter that I needed to provide for,” Lionquist said. “At the time, I needed to make sure that I had insurance and a steady paycheck, so I didn’t have time to pursue anything with my degree.”
Going back to school and switching professions was the furthest thing from his mind; that is, until he heard about the radiography program at Washtenaw Community College. Knowing someone who attended the college, Lionquist said, planted the seed of interest that always stuck with him.
“To me, health care had always meant nursing,” he said, “but hearing about the program and all of the experiences my friend had at WCC made it all seem very interesting. As I got older, got married and found my life stabilizing a bit, I knew I wanted to finally get a better career for myself.”
Back to school
At the age of 41, Lionquist took a buyout from his former company and started attending classes at the college. He completed two years of classroom study, followed by two years of clinicals; one at St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor and a second at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center.
Five days after graduating with his Associate in Applied Sciences with a specialization in radiography, Lionquist was offered a job at the University of Michigan Health Systems.
“Everything came together for me,” he said. “I was able to go into my new job with confidence after everything I learned in the classroom and through my clinicals. WCC gave me all of the hands-on experience that I needed.”
Radiography
Washtenaw Community College offers an associate in Applied Science Degree for an entry-level career in the field of diagnostic radiography. Students are enrolled in a two-year comprehensive curriculum that includes specialty course work in diagnostic imaging and extensive clinical training. Upon successful completion of the program, students may obtain additional training in other diagnostic imaging specialties, such as: computed tomography, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging and cardiovascular interventional imaging.Learn more at health.wccnet.edu/radiography