Student Spotlight

Andrea Crane

Andrea Crane has dreamed of being many things in her life – from an ice-skating ballerina to a marine biologist to an artist of some sort!  And whatever path she found herself on, she always gave it her all and did her very best and that’s just what she is doing as an MRI student – with a cumulative, 3.93 grade point average! Casa Loma College wishes you the best in your endeavors!

Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up? What are your interests?
I grew up in the Central Valley, Visalia, California.  I went to college the first time around at UCSB, moved to San Diego afterwards and have lived there since.  I always enjoy being outside, concerts, time with friends and a nice whiskey cocktail.  Mostly, I just like spending time with my partner.

What is a cause you are passionate about?
I’m passionate about whatever I commit myself to.  Whether it’s school, work or anything personal, I go at it with my very best.  I’m not satisfied unless I’ve given my all; for the sake of helping others to the best of my ability and knowing I’ve done the best for myself.

How did your path unfold and who were the faculty and staff who have helped you along that path?
Everyone I’ve encountered at Casa Loma College has only helped my success, from the very first faces I came across, Nicholas and Kelly, to all of the instructors and staff.  There’s no one that hasn’t helped me, directly or behind the scenes.

What have you learned or are learning that’s made a difference to you?
Throughout my education at Casa Loma I’ve gained a better understanding of the field I will be going into.  Not only what I should expect, but what the expectations are of me as a tech; the knowledge and skills that are required, the quality of my work, the level of care I need to provide to patients and understanding the weight of my responsibilities as a tech.

What have you learned from other students?
I’ve been fortunate to be with such awesome classmates.  I’m learning something from them every day.  Everyone brings a new perspective and different experiences to the table.  Mostly I’m learning that the universe is going to be graced with some amazing new MRI techs!

What has been your greatest challenge?
Balancing school and working full time has made it difficult at times.  Knowing what’s at the end of the tunnel, though, makes all of the sacrifices worth it.

What has been your favorite class so far and why?
Imaging and Procedures was the class that really got me excited for my future career as an MRI tech.  It was the first class being instructed by someone in the field and gave us some hands-on experience.  It gave me insight into what my future would be like and made me look forward to being a tech even more.  I can’t not mention the philosophy, psychology and humanities online courses.  I always enjoy those subjects and appreciate the learning and self-awareness that come from them.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?
First, I wanted to be an ice-skating ballerina.  Not just one, both.  At the same time.  Then a marine biologist.  Then I thought I would do something in the art field with my B.A. in Art History.  So it goes to show, you never know where you’ll end up!

What would people be surprised to know about you?
I’ve been street bullfighting in Portugal!

What is your plan for after graduation? What type of facility would you like to work in and why?
I hope to be employed by UCSD, where I want to extern.  After I get some experience under my belt, I think I’d like to be at an off-site clinic.  I prefer a consistent schedule and healthy work/life balance.  I’m keeping an open mind though; I may end up loving the hospital setting.

What advice do you have for incoming students?
Stay determined, stay focused and do your best. You can do it!  There’s help everywhere you look and a fantastic career at the end of it.

What makes Casa Loma special?
Everyone is dedicated to the success of the students.  You can see the love the instructors, faculty and staff have for what they do.  Casa Loma has such a supportive atmosphere, it feels like the support of a family.  You know you’re cared for here.