Meet Skylar Kemp, BS RDMS RVT RT(R)

Tell us about your background. I completed the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program and received my Bachelors of Science degree from the University of Iowa back in 2016. For 6.5 years, I have been a sonographer in the Department of Radiology rotating between the main and children’s hospital. During my third year as a sonographer, I became a clinical preceptor. This role has challenged me, which ultimately led to new and different opportunities. As a result, I decided to go back to school and obtain my master's degree in health Professions Teaching and Technology (MHPTT) through the University of Nebraska Medical Center. I graduate in the Spring of 2023 and am very excited for what may come next! 

Why did you pick sonography as a career field?  During X-ray school, I shadowed a handful of ultrasound exams and was instantly hooked! I really liked how operator dependent and challenging each exam was. I liked having the “eyes in the room” that Radiologist’s trusted. This trust, combined with being a valuable member of the patient's care team, is a big reason why I choose this amazing, rewarding career. 

What is your favorite exam? My favorite exam to scan is a liver Doppler as it calls for attention to detail. Each patient is different and requires different adjustments on the machine to produce high quality images. 

Advice for anyone interested in the sonography field?  Job shadow, ask questions and get involved. There is so much more to ultrasound than what you may think. Additionally, don’t just settle on one modality. Be open minded and explore what the others have to offer. No matter what you decide, you will always learn something new and make a difference in the end!