My family lived in Gambia, which is one of Africa's smallest countries that’s highly dependent on peanut exports and tourism. My mother moved to the Unites States in 1965; but returned to Gambia where I was born. But because of the educational system, where girls have little chance of obtaining an education unless they are born into a rich family, my parents brought me to America at age 12. They considered this the land of opportunity where anyone can succeed if determined.
I have been interested in the field of medicine since high school. Why? Because being able to help people heal, avoid invasive surgery, and live healthy lives gives me a feel of accomplishment by contributing to society. Therefore, when researching local academic programs that not only meet my needs, but also one where I could be an asset to the program, New York Methodist (NYM) Hospital Center for Allied Health Education placed at the top of my list.
Since your institution is a member of the New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System and known for providing excellent healthcare services as well as a balance between college resources and opportunities for students, NYM was selected.
I have successfully completed academic requirements at John F. Kennedy High School as well as at Hostos Community College, both located in the Bronx. I’m now ready for the next step towards achieving my professional goal as an Ultrasound Technician.
My short-term goal is to earn an Associate Degree through the School of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and apply for ARDMS. By completing NYM’s extensive curriculum and well-rounded learning experiences, I will be prepared for, competent on, and knowledgeable to handle advanced medical equipment used for diagnostics. Once admitted into the program, I plan to explore membership in SDMS to advance my knowledge in medical sonography.
My long-term goal is to complete the Master’s Degree program and obtain employment at Montefiore Hospital or New York Presbyterian Hospital as an Ultrasound Technician or Medical Sonographer. Both titles are used interchangeable depending on the employer.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational growth rate of 44% is
projected for Ultrasound Technicians from 2010 through 2020. This field offers excellent employment opportunities with hospitals being the main and largest employer of Ultrasound Technicians. It also offers competitive salaries ranging from $51,720 to $77,560 per year for full-time technicians depending on their work environment: physician offices, outpatient centers, or hospitals. Therefore, I’m confident that this will be a very rewarding career that enables me to support my family and give back to the community.
In order to be successful in this exciting profession, one must have certain characteristics – many of which I possess. I have strong interpersonal skills, can work well with patients one-on-one, maintain good manual dexterity, and being detail-oriented as demonstrated when employed at a nursing home for four years. Wanting to get more work experience and give back to the community, I recently started volunteer work at Lincoln Hospital where these skills are still used. I speak five African languages: Wolof, Soninke, Mandingo, Babara, and Aku, which enables me to be an asset when working with international patients.
I am determined, dedicated, and driven to realize both goals; and provided the opportunity, I will rise to meet all academic challenges at your university and become a graduate who NYM can be proud of.
