Alumni Spotlight

Richard Garray

Our last Alumni Spotlight of 2019 features Richard Garay, a graduate of DMS 1705A cohort. Richard graduated June 2019 and has already obtained his RDMS (AB), RVT, VT and R.T. (S) (ARRT). And, there is no stopping him – he is out to conquer the world of sonography! Congratulations Richard.

Where have you worked since you graduated and where do you currently work? What is your title?
I was fortunate to continue working post-externship at a vascular office for a cardiologist performing predominantly vascular ultrasound examinations as sonographer. I continue to work there to develop my skills as well as working for a few hospitals as part of a registry. I have recently accepted an offer of employment through Rad Net. So, for the time, I will be maintaining 3 jobs.

What type of things do you do on your job’s day to day?
I arrive early to prep the room and machine for the first patient of the day. I regularly perform vascular ultrasound examinations such as carotids, abdominal aorta, lower extremity duplex arterial/venous, etc.

As part of the registry I perform general and vascular ultrasound examinations at the hospital.

What do you like about your career?
Understanding the human anatomy and pathology is fascinating to me. I love the variability to specialize in different areas of sonography. The constant challenges keeps me sharp and attentive. Lastly, being the eyes of the doctor and caring for each and every patient is rewarding.

 What are your career goals for the future?
In my first year as a sonographer I obtained RDMS (AB), RVT, VT and R.T. (S) (ARRT). I will continue to develop my skills and experience to land a dream job. I also am considering studying echocardiography.

What advice can you give current students and new graduates that can help them be successful?
My advice for current students is to practice as much as you can to develop competency in your scanning skills. Improve in the areas you struggle with. Also, know your anatomy and physiology. And, utilize all the resources at your disposal (textbooks, YouTube, your instructors, staff, etc.). Don’t waste time. Two years goes by fast!

My advice for the graduates is simple: continue studying to prepare for your ARDMS. Your credentials will open doors for more opportunities. Also, continue scanning patients and practicing as much as you can so you stay fresh and prepared for scanning interviews.

How did Casa Loma College help you get where you are today?
Casa Loma College provided me the platform and tools I needed to jumpstart my career. The instructors are knowledgeable and masterful at what they do. I owe everything to Mr. Dhillon, Dr. Arthur, and Dr. Bahaa. I worked very closely with all 3 during my time as a student and even as a graduate.

What was your experience like getting a job after you graduated?  Did you use any of the school’s on-campus career services?  Did you find a job right away?
I was fortunate to maintain my relationship with the cardiovascular office to continue to train and work professionally post-graduation. I stayed in touch with Career Services on a weekly basis and landed more gigs as sonographer soon after through Xprt Staffing Agency. And as aforementioned, I recently was hired through Rad Net.

What was the biggest obstacle you had to overcome getting into the program? While at School? Transitioning into the workforce?
Biggest obstacle I had to overcome getting into the program was the idea of going back to school again and mentally preparing for my life to change within these 2 years. While in school, I left my full-time job of 9 years, which took a major financial and mental toll on me while going to school every week. Transitioning into the work force was challenging.  I was a fresh new graduate who needed to get ARDMS to even be considered for employment. Thankfully, my time at externship and volunteering at the hospital gave me the confidence as a new grad in the workforce.

What are some highlights from your time at Casa Loma College?
I worked as a part time employee under the Federal Work Study program for most of my time while in the DMS program. I got to work real close with the staff who were always wonderful, helpful, and a pleasure to work with.

Making new friends and learning a new skill under great teachers was amazing as well.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I play music in an original band. We have two albums currently on iTunes and Spotify. I also enjoy reading, listening to music, good conversations, eating delicious food and traveling.

Where do you see yourself five years from now in your career?
Working at a top hospital or imaging facility with amazing doctors earning great pay and benefits; exploring new avenues to further my career in the medical field beyond my position and work towards being more independent such as starting my own business.