Tell us about You. Where are you from? Family? Friends? Anything you'd like to share
I am currently living in Pennsylvania while traveling across the country, living my life and dream of traveling while working. I meet the most amazing people across the country, making friends and memories everywhere I go! Even while on the road, I'm a girl scout leader for girls currently in 12th grade and will be bringing them on their 2nd international trip in just a few short months. I brought them to Switzerland and now off to Mexico. My family means the world to me. While I travel they are never more then a phone call or face time away. My family is spread across the US and since I started traveling, I get to see them now more then ever.
What prompted you to go into Healthcare?
Healthcare was never my first thought growing up. I started in teaching, and at the drop of a dime, went into radiology school. Never regretted that once. It was hard as the youngest person in the class. (not even legally allowed to drink yet.) I was 19 when I started in radiology. Graduated top of my class and immediately went into MRI with Carolyn Roth and William Faulkner. I was so happy to learn from the two biggest gurus in the industry.
Why did you decide to start Traveling and what was your first assignment like?
I started traveling because 1) who doesn't want to get out of their hometown and explore and 2) I needed an adventure and to live my life to the fullest. I was stuck where I was. My first assignment I did what any young person does, who wants to get out. I went from Jersey coast all the way to Oregon. I loved every moment and I started finding out who I was and living it up, not being so afraid of the world. Many people warned me about traveling as a solo female. Now I own it and will never stop flying high and seeing this beautiful country, one state at a time.
What is your favorite thing about Traveling?
At the beginning of every assignment I'm so excited. New start, new faces, new opportunities to learn and grow. I now know 6 different MRI platforms. Something I would have never been exposed to back home. So much exposure to new techniques and scanning parameters. I was even able to do research exams. Outside of work, its the friends who become family while you travel....and recruiters like David who become the person you rely on and is always there. My first contract with him, i was driving 7.5 hours after working a 60 hour week. He called several times and I wasn't able to answer because I was in orientation so he called the director to make sure i was there safe and okay. He is the only recruiter to ever do that!! I appreciate that so much. The best part of traveling is I CAME OUT OF MY SHELL AND BECAME MYSELF!!!!
What is the hardest part about traveling and how do you overcome it?
Leaving my family and comfort zone. I used to be so shy and timid. "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't --you're right." - Henry Ford. This got me through alot while traveling and you are never alone. The network of travelers out there will always help you!!
How long have you been traveling? # of assignments? Locations? Traveling goals?
2 years. Currently on assignment #7. New York, Oregon, Wisconsin 2x, Colorado, New York again and now Maryland. My goal was to start a meet up company for travelers (not for recruiting) but to meet up, go to events, have fun, drinks, adventures while on assignment. and I did. TRAVEL HEALTHCARE COLORADO. My next goal - CT Board Certified. (70% completed)
Anything in particular that stands out to you when traveling with Alliance Medical Staffing?
I mentioned above how much David cares about his travelers. We aren't just numbers to him. He works with you and doesn't hold back. He gives it to you straight and makes sure you are okay. The payroll department puts a little note on the paystub email. Awesome small touches like that mean alot!!! Thank you David and ALLiANCE for an amazing contract. I love it here...the people are too nice, which is so different from some other places I've been.