Capturing Every Moment
Posted on July 9, 2024 by CAHP
When Jonathan Terrell transferred to the University of South Alabama, there was no doubt in his mind that he wanted to study radiologic sciences.
Terrell grew up approximately 30 minutes from USA's campus in the small community of Hurley, Mississippi, and completed his prerequisites at a local community college. During the spring semester of 2022, he moved into USA’s Delta dorms ready to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
A high school project helped him discover his interest in radiologic sciences. He and his classmates were each tasked with making a presentation about a career they were curious about. He remembered how fascinating the x-rays were after he broke an elbow playing soccer, so he quickly learned more about the field.
“I shadowed at a clinic in Hurley, and I just stuck with it,” Terrell said.
He is the first person in his family to choose a career in healthcare. His mother was surprised the day he moved out and was slightly concerned about the cost of tuition.
Now as graduation approaches, “she’s super excited for me to go down this path,” Terrell shared.
Though they crossed the USA commencement stage in May, Terrell and his classmates will officially complete their degrees in late July and will be recognized at a special ceremony hosted by the Department of Radiologic Sciences.
Terrell is currently working part-time at USA Health University Hospital after spending nearly a year at the USA Health Freestanding Emergency Department. He will transition into a full-time role in computed tomography and x-ray in the fall.
He chose to study computed tomography as his advanced modality because it is fast-paced. He lives life with high energy and a joy that cannot be missed, so naturally, he wanted to pick a modality that operated similarly.
However, when he ran into moments of imposter syndrome earlier on in his clinical rotations, the radiologic sciences faculty were always there to help lift his spirits. He appreciates the support he has received from Cathy Cooper, chair of the Department of Radiologic Sciences, and Missy Curtis, instructor in radiologic sciences. He credits them both for always encouraging him to be the best he could be.
“There’s so much more opportunity here. You can learn a lot more if you are here,” Terrell said. “Plus, you’ll get a bachelor’s degree, and you’ll learn a modality. You’re going to be a better technologist at the end of it.”
Terrell entered USA’s radiologic sciences program with his best friend and is graduating with many more. He never meets a stranger and is grateful for the opportunities he had to make new friends at football games, campus activities and local events.
“I just love South!” Terrell shared. “South has taught me how to have independence away from my family.”
Terrell is looking forward to working full-time at USA Health and hopes to one day have the opportunity to visit cities and countries around the world as a traveling radiologic technologist.
The Department of Radiologic Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences degree that is designed to prepare students for a variety of clinical settings including, CT, MRI, vascular radiography, mammography, ultrasound, radiation therapy or radiology administration. To learn more, contact the Department of Radiologic Sciences at RadSci@SouthAlabama.edu.
What is your favorite place to study on campus?
“The Learning Commons on the first floor of Marx Library.”
What mantra or motto inspires you each day?
“Stan Loona! I’m into K-Pop. Luna is a girl group, and I’ve been obsessed with them since high school.”
What is a fun fact about you?
“I have two pet rats, Loona and Harryitiannia the Third.”
What is your hidden talent?
“I bust into K-Pop dances every day.”