The first in her family to go to college, Keiser University Port St. Lucie campus learner Sara Cardenas is excited to embark on a profession that will make a difference in the lives of those seeking medical treatments.

The Radiologic Technology major credits her loved ones for the support that led to her educational opportunity. “Many in my family weren’t able to receive an education which makes it even more important for me. Both of my parents have worked very hard, and I know that their efforts have been to bring better opportunities for us,” said Cardenas who first started envisioning a career in the field while a teenager.

“Toward that last two years of high school, I began to realize that the best way for me to help others was to become a healthcare professional. As a radiologic technologist there are many different career paths in specialties known as ‘modalities’ that include radiography, computed tomography, bone densitometry, mammography and more,” said Cardenas, who will graduate in August 2022.

Cardenas is also thankful to her Keiser University instructors and shared that all of her core class professors have served as mentors or guides in various capacities. “Program Director Dr. Neisha Mitchell and Professor Joe Walega especially have helped me gain confidence in my abilities and have encouraged me to push myself to keep searching for something more, not just within school and the profession, but within myself as well,” she said.

For those who are striving to realize their dreams, Cardenas said, “No star is too far to reach nor is it too large to handle. Anything is possible if you put in the time and dedication.”

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Radiologic Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in the profession, producing radiographic images in accordance with standardized practices and procedures.  The program provides radiologic information including medical terminology, patient care, radiographic procedures, radiation protection, equipment operations and image production and evaluation. The program’s graduates are eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and are eligible to be licensed by the State of Florida to practice Radiologic Technology.

Keiser University is a private, independent, non-profit university serving nearly 20,000 students at 21 Florida campuses, online, and two international sites. Co-founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, Keiser University currently offers more than 100 degrees from associates to the doctoral level. Keiser University is a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and was ranked No. 11 in the U.S. in Social Mobility by U.S. News and World Reports in 2021.