Student Spotlight

Nick Lam

Our January Student Spotlight features Nick Lam, MRI student, who found his calling while doing volunteer work in an MRI Department. Besides completing 40 hours of externship every week, Nick finds time to volunteer in helping to reduce hunger to families in the San Diego area. To learn more about Nick … read below.

 Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up? What are your interests?
 I was born in Vietnam, and grew up in San Bernardino, moving to San Diego after high school.  From the sunshine, beaches and beautiful people, I just love everything about San Diego! I had an opportunity to volunteer in the MRI department at a hospital and after seeing what they do for work, I discovered my interest in becoming an MRI Technologist.  I am seeking a new career where I can fulfill my passion in helping people in a significant way.

In my free time, I enjoy going out, exploring new places, trying new food and just spending time with my family.  I love watching movies and shows on Netflix, but I also try to live an active life, so I am usually outside running, hiking or playing basketball.   

What is a cause you are passionate about?
I am passionate about helping to reduce hunger. I volunteered with Feeding San Diego this past holiday season to help provide nutritious food to families with food-insecurities. I didn’t realize that one in six children in the San Diego are at risk of hunger. This is hard to believe considering we live in America, where food is abundant compared to other countries, yet a lot of food is also wasted, while we have children and families going to bed hungry every night. I volunteer at Feeding San Diego by helping them sort and package food donated and rescued from different sources and then distribute the food to families in need.

What has been your greatest challenge?
Going through this program was one of my greatest challenges because I had to juggle work, family life and responsibilities, and school all at the same time. I had to set priorities and manage my time effectively. It was very draining mentally and physically.

What has been your favorite class so far and why?
My favorite class was Patient Care and Management. It was interesting and fun learning how to start an IV even though it was also a little bit painful. It is definitely something that takes a lot of practice to master. I treat it like a sport and challenge myself. I get excited whenever I get a successful IV.

What would people be surprised to know about you?
I was part of a breakdancing group in high school, but please don’t ask me to demonstrate any moves. LOL!

What is your plan for after graduation? What type of facility would you like to work in and why?
Hopefully, after graduation I get a job offer as an MRI tech. I want to work for UCSD, where I am currently doing my externship. I truly believe they provide excellent healthcare to their patients and it would be a great place to work as well.

What advice do you have for incoming students?
My advice for incoming students is to be proactive in your learning. Take initiative by seeking help from instructors or from your classmates early on. I find it helpful and motivating forming a study group with classmates that are serious about the program and their goals.