Jennifer Lauria-Errico ’22 graduated with a degree in Radiologic Technology from UHart’s College of Education, Nursing, and Health Professions. Her passion for the field, support from faculty, and clinical experience through UHart prepared her to enter the workforce with confidence. In fact, when it came time to apply for jobs, she was hired as a CT scan technologist at St. Francis Hospital, a CT scan technologist at The Hospital of Central Connecticut, and a radiologic technologist at The Hospital of Central Connecticut.
“UHart taught me all the necessary skills that I need to be successful in this field. I wouldn't be where I am today without the classes, professors, and three years of clinical experience,” she says. Lauria-Errico spent more than 1,500 hours on-site in local hospitals learning, observing, and contributing to actual healthcare systems. She believes, “Being able to do clinical at these locations gave me the opportunity to make a good impression on my future employers.”
She was inspired to pursue this field because she believes radiologic technology is an important part of the patient experience. “I wanted to make an impact in people’s lives. Imaging is a very important part of healthcare and being able to make a diagnosis,” she says.
In the classroom, she worked closely with her the professors. “The professors in the Radiologic Technology program pushed me to work hard and always submit my best work, challenging me with difficult questions and assignments, but I believe that's what allowed me to pass my radiography boards and soon my CT boards,” she says. As a result of the connections she made with her professors, they also provided professional references when she was applying for jobs.
Participation in activities outside of clinicals and classrooms benefited Lauria-Errico as well. She remembers learning through UHart about the Radiologic Technology Day in Hartford, sponsored by the Connecticut Society of Radiologic Technologists. “My classmates and I were able to speak with representatives regarding the importance of medical imaging,” she says. To further her interest and engagement in the field, Lauria-Errico joined the diagnostic imaging club on campus.
What does she want new students to know? She encourages them to study hard while also giving themselves time to have fun and reminds them that making connections with the faculty is important. She says, “Always reach out to your professors and make sure to have a good relationship with them. They are there to help you succeed.”
Jennifer Lauria-Errico ’22, Radiologic TechnologyUHart taught me all the necessary skills that I need to be successful in this field. I wouldn't be where I am today without the classes, professors, and three years of clinical experience."