Cristian Tarea
Cristian Tarea (Maple, Ontario)
Radiological Technology, Class of 2020
Biography
Ever since I was a child I had a sense of curiosity that was hard to satisfy. I would always find something new and interesting to discover, whether it was found in a novel, in the great outdoors or in different relationships I had with friends and family. These behaviours that I nourished during my youth have developed into the hobbies I enjoy today, such as playing soccer, guitar, reading books, hiking in the many forests of Canada, and playing videogames. I guess you can say, for me, life is about taking full advantage of what’s around you and using it to grow into the person who you want to be.
What and where did you study before joining MRS?
I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemistry and Applied Physics at Ryerson University.
What attracted you to the MRS program?
Growing up I knew that the STEM fields were my main interest. Through my volunteer work and extensive experience working in retail I learned that I needed human interaction in my daily life to make work an enjoyable experience. When I graduated from Ryerson it was evident that I needed to find a career that integrated these two factors. That is when I stumbled upon the MRS programs. I applied to Radiological Technology because it integrates advanced technologies with both the scientific method and patient interaction. It was the perfect fit.
How is MRS different from your previous university experience?
The MRS experience differs in many ways from my experience at Ryerson. The first and main difference is that the MRS program offers small class sizes which allows for ample interaction with your instructors. This makes the classroom setting feel like you’re more than just a student number, and more of a practicing MRS professional. Also, the MRS offers extensive hands on training for a specific career, which is invaluable in a field where practice makes perfect.
What do you like best about the program?
The best thing about the program is how close you become with your peers and instructors. I feel as though I have been accepted into the MRS family, instead of into the MRS program. Everyone is very kind, welcoming and open to new ideas which can help make people feel more at home.
What is your favourite spot/activity on or near campus?
My favourite spot on campus is the Michener LRC. This is the “Learning Resource Center” and it is essentially a library. I enjoy this spot so much because it is a place where people come to learn, study, and ultimately work together. My fondest memories are those I made with friends as we studied together for our finals.
How is the workload? Do you have time to get involved in campus life, sports, clubs or to work part-time?
The workload is aggressive but that does not mean that it is impossible to get involved in the community. In my second year I was the Michener Student Council President, the VP of Finance of the Medical Radiation Sciences Society, I tutored part time and was the captain of two intramural soccer teams at The Michener Institute. The experience is what you make of it and I found that proper time management helped me explore all those wonderful experiences.
Where is your clinical placement? What is it like?
My clinical placement is at North York General Hospital and it is amazing. Everyone there is very patient and willing to help you learn. They have helped me through plateaus in my improvement as a healthcare professional, as well as given me valuable tips that will stick with me throughout my future career.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduation I plan on working full time as Radiological Technologist, but first I want to take a well-earned vacation to Iceland. In my later career I want to venture forth to see the wonders of the world which hopefully will help me strive and grow within the healthcare community.
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For more information about the MRS Program visit www.medicalradiationsciences.ca