Raquel Caramanno

Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Echo & Vascular Track)

Raquel's healthcare journey began in 2012 when she enlisted in the United States Air Force. During her time in the Air Force Raquel was responsible for providing leadership and administrative support by managing several administrative programs in an Air Force Medical Facility. Her hard work and dedication resulted in her being selected as the 2015 Air Force Medical Service Health Services Management Airman of the Year. Once her enlistment was finished with the Air Force, Raquel decided to pursue a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography so that she could continue to make a positive impact in the healthcare community.

CAHE: What did you enjoy most in the program?

Raquel : The best part about being in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program has been the knowledge and experience I have gained both at school and my clinical site. The coursework in this program requires hard work and dedication but every challenge I have overcome has instilled a greater sense of confidence in my ability to be an effective sonographer.

CAHE: What is the greatest lesson that you learned in the program?

Raquel : The greatest lesson I have learned in this program was the importance of being adaptable and resilient. During this program, we had to transition to remote learning for some time due to the pandemic. It was a huge adjustment for everyone but staying focused on my goals helped me to remain motivated and determined to succeed no matter what the circumstances.

CAHE: What is your most memorable experience in the program?

Raquel : The most memorable experience throughout my program was when I first started attending my clinical site during my first rotation. I had spent months learning about sonography in school but to apply the knowledge I learned in a clinical setting was an amazing experience. I truly feel we can make a difference in a person's life by not only being effective sonographers but also showing kindness and compassion.

CAHE: What advice would you offer to a student who is just beginning the program?

Raquel : The greatest piece of advice I would give to students entering this program is to stay resilient and remember your goals for why you chose to pursue this career. There will be challenges throughout this program but staying focused on your goals and remembering why you chose this career will help you persevere through any obstacles you may be faced with.

CAHE: Why did you choose to attend the DMS program at the Center for Allied Health Education?

Raquel : CAHE was the first school I visited when I began researching Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs. From the moment I entered the school, I had a great feeling about the program. The overall atmosphere was extremely welcoming and I was very excited to find out that there was a track-focused on echo/vascular ultrasound which is what I was most interested in.