Rising Star

RAYSSA SALINAS, RT(R)(CT) ARRT

Rayssa Salinas, RT(R)(CT) ARRT, is a rising star at the University of Texas Medical Branch.

BY JOHN WALLACE

Rayssa Salinas, RT(R)(CT) ARRT, holds a Bachelor of Science in Radiography Education and Management and is the imaging technical supervisor at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). ICE recently learned more about this rising star via a question-and-answer session.

Q: WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

A: I was born in Los Angles, California, but I moved to Galveston, Texas with my family at the age of 13 and have lived in Galveston County since.

Q: WHERE DID YOU RECEIVE YOUR IMAGING TRAINING/ EDUCATION?

A: I began my training at Galveston College where I received my associate degree in radiography. I continued on to complete the computed tomography program after working in X-ray for a year. I received my Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas MD Anderson with a focus in radiography education and leadership. I am now currently working towards my Master of Management and Leadership from Western Governors University and hope to complete the program by June 2023. I hold two certifications through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in radiography and computed tomography.

Q: HOW DID YOU FIRST DECIDE TO START WORKING IN IMAGING?

A: I can honestly say I just think it was meant to be. I was a business major at the Texas State University, and I knew I was not in the right field. I decided to cut my losses and move back home to Galveston, Texas. I wanted a career that I could feel passionate about but had no idea what direction to go in. I heard Galveston College had a great school for health professions. I decided to apply to the radiography program thinking it could be an interesting career. I had no idea how large the radiology scope was and immediately fell in love with the profession once I started my program.

Q: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO GET INTO THIS FIELD?

A: I was lucky. I was looking for a new path after deciding that being a business major was not for me. I applied to the radiography program to give it a shot. I never would have expected to end up in the medical field, but I am happy I did. This field has given me a career I love, and that I am passionate about. I love what we contribute to patient care. Imaging has changed patient care and is truly valuable for correctly diagnosing and treating a patient.

Q: WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR POSITION?

A: I recently took on a new role as the imaging supervisor at UTMB. I love that I never have the same day twice. I am never stuck at a desk, and I am always learning something new. In my new position, I have the opportunity to combine my leadership skills with my passion for education. I will be in charge of the cross-training program our hospital offers and contribute to the next generation of technologists entering the field.

Q: WHAT INTERESTS YOU THE MOST ABOUT THE IMAGING FIELD?

A: I love CT. Its capabilities are fascinating to me. I love seeing the technology evolve and improve over the years. I think it is so important to know your equipment’s capabilities and to know your pathology and protocols in order to optimize patient care. You never want to see pathology on your patients scan, but having the ability to identify it and notify the physician quicky can save someone’s life. Knowing you contributed to a patient’s successful outcome is a feeling that sticks with you and is one of my favorite parts of the field.

Q: WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IN YOUR FIELD THUS FAR?

A: I can honestly say my greatest accomplishment has been seeing students and new technologist that I have taught, trained or mentored develop into exceptional technologist.

Q: WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR YOURSELF IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS?

A: Over the next 5 years I would love to finish my master’s degree, find success in my current role and grow my career in education. I would also love to be published one day soon. •

FUN FACTS

FAVORITE HOBBY: Honestly, I am simple. I just love walking my pups, enjoying nature and traveling. FAVORITE SHOW: “Friends” … I have seen every episode 100 times and I still laugh when I watch it. FAVORITE FOOD: A Cuban dish called “Vaca Frita” FAVORITE VACATION SPOT: I love nature, so far Alaska and Costa Rica have really wowed me!

ONE THING ON YOUR BUCKET

LIST: I want to visit Galapagos Islands and experience their unique wildlife.

SOMETHING YOUR CO-WORKERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:

Before radiography I worked as a bartender for many years and can still do some of my old bar tricks!