Irina Krotin, RDMS

Irina: I have always seen myself in healthcare, and it took some time for me to find my calling. A very close friend of mine whom I used to work with in the pharmacy, had suggest one day that I should look into imaging because someone as creative and who loves healthcare, should be really happy doing that for a living, so I went home and did my research and the rest is history. The field of Diagnostic Medical Sonography is a combination of hands on work and really being involved with patients. I love being able to critically think and put the puzzle pieces together based on my findings – kind of like a "medical detective" so to speak. This field is certainly for those who have curious minds and enjoy the many challenging aspects of medicine.

Irina: I moved to New York just a week prior to orientation, so going back to school wasn't the only new page in my life. I truly enjoyed my whole journey to where I am today. The DMS program at CAHE gave me the opportunity to create new friendships and relationships, which helped me succeed socially, academically, and practically.

Irina: My third internship site that I was sent to trained me in both Adult Echocardiography and Vascular. A month before graduation I had music play in my ears when my preceptor at the time sat me down and asked me if I would be interested to work there. I was hired at New York Cardiovascular Associates and recently the practice joined the NYU Langone Health team. Now, I am a Cardiovascular Sonographer at NYU Langone Medical Associates – Chelsea. I originally started working with the Abdomen and OB/GYN registries under my belt, and have also passed the Adult Echocardiography registry. My next goal is to tackle the vascular registry as soon as I get accustomed to the recent transition in the company and continue to grow and learn as I go.

Irina: It just so happens that when there are gloomy days where I would feel like all I do is "just take pictures," a patient would hug me after the exam and thank me for everything that I do for them. The biggest reward in this field is when you get acknowledged by your patients. I can't pin point just one because all these experiences are truly special from the heart. I love when some of my 90+ year-olds would tell me how "adventurous" they were when they were younger and share some of their darkest secrets to crack a smile on my face while performing the exam.

Irina: Honestly, work extremely hard! I know it is vague, but seriously give your all. I highly suggest coming up with an effective studying routine while in school and use all your resources. Teachers are readily available to help you and work with you. There is free tutoring available that can be arranged upon your request, as well as out of classroom scanning time (with an instructor to guide you!). Also, because the DMS program is CAAHEP accredited, students can sit for the Abdomen and OB/GYN registries as early as 60 days prior to graduation – do it!!! Nothing can be worse than finishing school and being out of the job scene due to registry preparation. Most places will hire you simply for being RDMS and give you time to obtain other registries if necessary. For example, I acquired my Abdomen and OB/GYN and was able to start at a Cardiovascular practice and I am given a year to obtain the Adult Echo, which I already have, and also obtain the Vascular registry. If there is anything you can accomplish/complete, don't wait -- get it done.