Show Me Some Stars

James Atkinson

James graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Imaging Technology) in 2008. It is his second UCOL qualification: before starting the degree programme he completed a Certificate in Health Science Technology, as a building block and “to assist with the physics aspect of the degree programme and for refreshment in anatomy.”

He describes the MIT programme as “very challenging and intensive, but also very rewarding when put into practice in the clinical setting. The lecturers were all supportive, friendly and approachable. Best of all, they all had a great sense of humour and a strong passion for radiography. Some aspects are very challenging, but the lecturers were patient and found ways to make these concepts more understandable.” For James, highlights of his study included: “Meeting new people, having a fun class and lecturers, gaining a lot of clinical experience over the three years and knowing I can get a job not only in New Zealand but all over the world.”

James now works at Palmerston North Hospital in Radiology as a Diagnostic Radiographer and is planning work experience overseas in the near future. He also intends to do postgraduate study in Magnetic Resonance Imaging.