Attracted to the Field: Newly Graduated MRI Technologists Reflect on Journey

On November 26, 2024, UVA Radiology celebrated a special occasion: After completing their education and passing their boards, Brooke Coleman and Bruno Ngami Ngolali were officially MRI technologists.

Together, Brooke and Bruno are the first graduates of UVA Health’s MRI Technologist training program. Created through a recent partnership with the Tesla MR Institute, trainees receive academic and clinical skills necessary to become a registered MRI technologist.

The training program is also part of UVA Health’s “Earn While You Learn” initiative, which means MRI students are paid a salary – and UVA Health pays for their tuition expenses as well.

From Bridgewater to Brazzaville, Brooke and Bruno’s origins look different; but their interest in MRI ultimately led them to the same program. Before the graduation celebration, Brooke and Bruno reflected on their journey, educational experience, and future plans.

 

What was your journey before training to become an MRI technologist at UVA?

 

BROOKE: I grew up in Yorktown VA, right on the water! I moved to Charlottesville after I graduated with my Bachelor of Science degree from Bridgewater College in 2021. I have always had an interest in the healthcare field, and then I heard what a hidden gem radiology is and decided to give it a try. I spent 2 years in the CT department as an RCA (Radiology Clinical Associate) and loved it! When the Tesla program was started at UVA, I had the honor of being asked to be one of the first students to try it out (alongside Bruno)! I will forever thank myself for getting out of my comfort zone and saying yes to this incredible opportunity.

BRUNO: I am originally from Brazzaville in the Congo. I grew up in Brazzaville and Paris, France. As a former math teacher, I moved to Charlottesville a while ago. I went to PVCC and completed healthcare courses to get into the radiology program. I fell in love with the healthcare industry as a transporter and a radiology clinical assistant in the MRI department.  Since then I have been dreaming to become an MRI technologist. MRI is one of the best modalities, and I appreciate the detail that the images offer.

 

 

What’s your experience been like as an MRI student?

BROOKE: My experience at UVA has been so special. The Tesla program and UVA have both truly set me up for nothing but success. I have fallen in love with MRI and truly believe that I have found my passion. Being a student can be difficult and stressful but I have been met with nothing but patience and understanding from every person in this department. I would recommend this program to anyone who is looking to learn more about MRI!

BRUNO: My experience being an MRI student at UVA has been extremely successful and financially rewarding. It provides a comprehensive training, including hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment and instruction in anatomy, patient care, and imaging techniques.  Plus, the work environment is enjoyable and amazing.

 

Anything else you want to say?

BROOKE: I want to thank every person who made this experience possible. To Richard Hooper, Ali Wartella and James Carnes, who spent countless hours researching and creating this position for the Tesla program to bloom.  To all the MRI Techs who have taken the time to teach me, answer my countless questions, and prepared me to be the best MRI Tech I can be. Your kindness and patience will never go unnoticed. And a special shoutout to my preceptors Brandon Lamb and James Keller. You two are a light in the darkness that this job can bring. I am successful because of how much you both believed in me.

To the future and current MRI Students – Don’t ever lose sight of why you chose this career. It is easy to get caught up in the stress and mess that this learning experience can be. There is so much beauty in the process of becoming. Just know that I am forever in your corner and will continue to be your number one fan!

BRUNO: I would love to thank Richard Hooper, Alisa Wartella, Tyler Johnson, Thomas Huerta, Aayush, Brandon Lamb, James Keller, Laura Calise, Steve Potts, and Earl Vess who helped me to get through this journey.