Alida Quackenbush of Essex, Vt., a radiologic science student at Champlain College, has been selected to participate in the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) 2011 Student Initiative Program in June 2011.

The ASRT is the national professional organization representing more than 139,000 members who perform medical imaging procedures or plan and deliver radiation therapy treatments. The Society also provides radiologic science students with the tools, services and support they need to prepare for careers in medical imaging and radiation therapy.

Students participating in the "Welcome to Your Future" essay competition were required to write a 500-700 word essay on one of the following topics:
• Why I chose the radiologic science profession.
• What being a professional means to me.
• What I hope to gain from attending the annual governance meeting.

The essays were evaluated on several factors including the author's commitment to pursuing a career in the radiologic sciences.

As a participant, Quackenbush will receive an all expenses paid trip to the ASRT Educational Symposium and Annual Governance and House of Delegates Meeting, June 16-19, in Albuquerque, N.M. Additionally, she will attend an educational program at the Symposium specifically designed for students and be assigned a professional mentor during the House of Delegates meeting.

Quackenbush was one of 62 students chosen from more than 180 entries submitted by radiologic science students from around the country. She will graduate with honors in May .

"The Student Initiative Program is a great way to get radiologic science students involved in the ASRT early in their careers," said ASRT President James Temme. "While in Albuquerque, students will have the opportunity to meet with veteran radiologic science professionals, participate in education activities and get an in-depth look at how the governance process works for the world's largest radiologic science organization."

Champlain College's Associate Degree in Radiography offers 23 students/year a two-year program that incorporates developing critical thinking skills while practicing radiography under direct clinical supervision at Fletcher Allen Healthcare and Northwestern Medical Center. During the course of the program, Champlain's learn-by-doing approach ensures students they will be fully prepared to enter the field as a certified professional.

For more information, visit http://www.champlain.edu/Undergraduate-Studies/Majors-and-Programs/Radiography.html