Gabby Gedman, of Worcester, has been working in healthcare since graduating from high school. An employee at UMass Memorial Health for the past eight years, Gedman returned to school to transition into working as a diagnostic medical sonographer. Middlesex Community College was one of four colleges in the state to offer the program.
“I’ve been to other community colleges and this by far was the best one,” Gedman said. “Smooth registration, easily accessible advisors, and a fantastic program.”
After becoming a certified nurse’s assistant, Gedman worked in a long-term care facility on an Alzheimer’s unit for six years. Gedman went on to work in respiratory acute care, hospitals, a rehab, a prison, and then as an EMT. At UMass Memorial, Gedman started out in gynecology oncology before working in a cardiovascular clinic.
“We had a vascular lab near our clinic and I would sneak over there and watch them do their exams,” Gedman said. “I was absolutely fascinated by it. I transferred back to gynecology oncology and would learn so much from my doctors and one especially encouraged me to pursue ultrasound. The rest is history.”
In MCC’s program, Gedman learned a lot from clinical experience and professors. Although challenging, working with others provided much needed support and patience. “They provided me with tips and tricks that guided me and helped me understand more,” Gedman said.
Professor Nada Almoujahed in particular pushed Gedman to do well in the program. Describing her as “tough, but caring, loving and funny,” Gedman said Almoujahed shared her experiences and stories to offer a lot of guidance.
MCC’s two-year diagnostic medical sonography program prepares students with the knowledge and skills to take the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers certifying exam and work in the in-demand field. The program requires extensive clinical experiences, including rotations through multiple clinical sites. Graduates can earn between $35 and $38 per hour in a variety of settings and specialties.
“I’ve been to other community colleges and this by far was the best one,” Gedman said. “Smooth registration, easily accessible advisors, and a fantastic program.” - Gabby Gedman
After graduating from Middlesex, Gedman plans to take the board exam and start working as a diagnostic medical sonographer. Having already been offered a role at UMass Memorial, MCC is helping Gedman reach this next step in the healthcare field.
“If you have compassion and care for people, you belong in the medical field,” Gedman said.