Student Experience: Michiel Shelton, RT (MR)(R)(ARRT)

“When I chose to pursue a career as a radiology technologist, I had an opportunity to do a rotation in magnetic resonance imaging. After doing research into MRI programs, I decided to attend Dallas College for its structure and comprehensive curriculum. The greatest strength of the director was that she tailored the education to each student. I found myself being excited about subjects like physics that I never thought to be applicable previously. Ms. Joan Becker was an advocate to ensure we each gained the greatest exposure and experience at a variety of clinical sites. The in-patient and outpatient settings allowed me to determine where my personality and career aspirations would be the greatest fit. 

“I find fulfillment in taking the best-quality image in order to assist the health care team to determine a diagnosis, as MRI results often play a key role. There is a misconception that MRI technologists are just 'button pushers,’ but I find that there is a multitude of critical thinking involved: individual patient care, collaboration with the radiologists to ensure that required techniques are used, time management and patient flow. Employers are looking for self-motivated technologists who can be flexible while being consistent in scanning techniques and friendly to all, including doctors, nurses, patients and their families.” 

Michiel Shelton earned an MRI Advanced Technical Certificate, for students having at least a previous associate degree in a designated allied health field or a B.S. degree with a major in a science discipline, from El Centro. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas and an associate degree in radiologic sciences from Weatherford College in Weatherford, Texas. He was already credentialed as a radiologic technologist through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists before earning the MRI credential.

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