Nice to meet you!
Hi, my name is Madison! I wanted to create this post so you could get to know me in my life post graduating from the University of Rhode Island.
I graduated URI with a major in marine biology and a minor in GIS. Before graduating school, I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I accepted a job on a fishing boat in Massachusetts with a company. After a couple of months of doing this job, I realize that this is not what I wanted to do in the long term, so I decided to start looking at healthcare careers, and what I could do. After consideration, I set my eyes on becoming respiratory therapist. I packed up my life, moved back to Pennsylvania and started taking classes to get into a program. While at home, I decided that I was gonna get a job in the lab at our local hospital to get more of a feel for the healthcare world. While I currently work in the lab at hospital, I will be attending respiratory therapy school at our local community college and will be starting in the fall of 2025!
Madison's journey highlights an inspiring career shift that many recent graduates face when finding their true passion. Starting with a major in marine biology and GIS, she ventured into a hands-on role in Massachusetts working on a fishing boat. This experience, although valuable, led her to reconsider her long-term aspirations. Recognizing the growing demand and importance of healthcare professionals, Madison explored the respiratory therapy field—an essential healthcare role focused on treating patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Respiratory therapists work closely with physicians and nurses, providing critical care often in hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers. To prepare for this career pivot, Madison wisely chose to gain practical healthcare experience by working in a hospital lab. Laboratory work offers insight into medical diagnostics and patient care processes, enriching her understanding of the clinical environment. This combination of hands-on lab experience coupled with focused coursework will equip her well for respiratory therapy school starting in fall 2025. Aspiring respiratory therapists should be aware that the field offers strong career growth potential due to an aging population and increased respiratory health concerns. Programs often require both classroom study and clinical practice, emphasizing skills in patient assessment, ventilator management, and emergency care. For those considering a healthcare career change like Madison, it’s important to research accredited respiratory therapy programs and gain relevant healthcare exposure. Volunteering or working in hospitals, clinics, or labs can provide a clearer view of daily responsibilities and patient interaction. Additionally, Madison’s story underscores the value of adaptability and lifelong learning. Transitioning from marine biology to healthcare showcases how diverse backgrounds can enrich patient care and bring unique perspectives to clinical practice. This narrative serves as motivation for others navigating career uncertainty after graduation, emphasizing that exploration and proactive experience are key to fulfilling professional goals.
Oh awesome I live in Pennsylvania!