Student Stories

My interest in healthcare led me to pursue Diagnostic Radiography, a path I had been considering since 2022. I had always been interested in studying at PSB Academy, so when I found out that Diagnostic Radiography was being offered in 2024, I was excited to apply. 

I’ve enjoyed the learning environment at PSB Academy so far. The classrooms are comfortable and there are whiteboards in the Main Wing that we can use for discussions and activities. I also appreciate Ms Candy Luo’s teaching style, as the different activities she incorporates into her lessons help me retain what I learn and work together with my classmates. 

My clinical blocks have exposed me to a wide range of trauma and non-trauma cases, which has helped me further develop my practical skills as an aspiring radiographer. One of the most important things I’ve learnt is that every patient is different, especially when it comes to their mobility, injuries and pain tolerance. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to positioning, so I’ve learnt to modify my approach according to each patient’s condition.  

I’ve also learnt that while achieving a good-quality image is important, clinical practice does not always go exactly as the textbook describes. I’m learning to recognise the limitations of each situation and make appropriate positioning adjustments to achieve the best possible diagnostic image for the patient. At the same time, I’m developing my judgement on whether an image needs to be repeated by considering the diagnostic requirements, the patient’s condition and radiation exposure. 

The second year was particularly challenging as I experienced quite a bit of burnout. I eventually learnt that I needed to pace myself and make time for things outside of studying. Going to the gym, reading, and spending time with my loved ones helped me recharge and manage the demands of the programme better. 

I’m currently working part-time as a nurse in a radiology clinic, while pursuing my studies in radiography. I was initially drawn to nursing because I’ve always been interested in healthcare, especially after seeing how nurses cared for my parents when they were hospitalised. It was only after I started working as a radiology nurse that I discovered my interest in radiography. The radiographers introduced me to their work and how different imaging equipment was used, which made me wonder if radiography was the career path I really wanted. After speaking to a colleague who encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and give it a try, I decided I would rather find out than spend years wondering “what if”. 

Working part-time in a radiology clinic has also complemented my studies by exposing me to cases beyond my clinical blocks. My colleagues are always willing to share their theoretical and practical knowledge when I come across something I’m unsure about. While I still enjoy nursing, making the switch to radiography is a decision I’m grateful I took. 

For anyone considering Diagnostic Radiography, I would say that the programme can be challenging, especially if you don’t come from a healthcare background. But if you genuinely enjoy caring for patients and have an interest in radiography, I feel it is worth pursuing. I also like that the programme suits my learning style. I’m not a big fan of group projects, while most of the in-course tests and assignments are done individually. At the same time, I really enjoy presenting during Ms Candy’s classes, so I’ve found a learning style that works well for me.