Student Experience: Ray Rucker, CST

“I greatly enjoy my work as it continues to challenge me in an academic non-profit hospital specializing in cancer research and transplants. I enjoy the opportunity to help those afflicted with cancer, who see the diagnosis as a long road of surgery and recovery to better health. I am thankful that I can make a difference in their lives. 

“Most people don’t understand the role of a surgical technologist and its direct involvement in patient care. The doctors rely on our understanding of surgical procedures and equipment and supplies needed for a successful surgical outcome. Employers are looking for people who genuinely care about the patients and understand the challenges each procedure needs. A person interested in this field of work must have great organizational skills, be ready to work under pressure, but at all times be flexible. If you have the skill set of being focused and organized, you will have a career that is always in need for the future.

  “My training at El Centro was led by a teacher with many years of professional experience, who offered me the tips and training to help in the transition from student to professional. El Centro has a well-developed program and is easy to get to from any area of Dallas via DART train or bus. The program is very thorough, with step-by-step instructions and real-life situations to help with the understanding of the process that it takes to be prepared for your career. I especially enjoyed the lab opportunities to fine-tune my craft.

  “I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in this field of work. The staff is always available to help with any questions or issues. El Centro has one of the highest employment recommendations in the North Texas area. Everyone at the hospitals I interviewed with has heard of El Centro’s program, and holds them in high regard in their reputation for producing students of quality.”

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