Student Profile - Jill Johnson

Jill Johnson

MRS Class of 2022 (Radiation Therapy)

Clinical Site: Saskatoon Cancer Centre

Hometown: Saskatoon, SK

What and where did you study before joining MRS?

I previously studied and completed an undergraduate degree in Geological Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan.

How has MRS been different than your previous program of study?

The MRS program offers a hands-on approach to learning which mimics a future career and allows for a smooth transition into the clinical setting. This differs from my past undergraduate degree in which class-based learning was primary. 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of the MRS program so far?

The most rewarding part of the MRS RT program is the clinical portion! Although the learning curve is steep, the connection I have built thus far with colleagues and patients is extremely heartwarming. 

What is your average day like during your clinical placement? 

A typical day in clinic begins with a brief team meeting to address each person's tasks and any critical items that the team should be notified of. I then proceed to perform a wide range of tasks depending on the day and what my goals are for the day/week. The tasks include but are not limited to: retrieving patients from the waiting room, inquiring about side effects/concerns, providing advice to manage side effects, setting up patients, setting up the accessories in the room, assisting with patient QA and other charting tasks, operating the Linear accelerator during treatments and collaborating/communicating with the team regarding patients. During my breaks, I love to grab a good book and read or head out for a run on Saskatoon's beautiful riverside trails!

Does your clinical site offer any unique experiences or opportunities that are of specific interest to you?

The Saskatoon Cancer Centre performs an extensive array of treatments when considering the size of the clinic. We offer brachytherapy to our gyne patients. Although it has not been implemented in my clinical rotation, it is an area of study/work that I would love to gain experience in. 

What has been the most rewarding part of your clinical placement so far?

The most rewarding part of clinical has been realizing the impact that myself and my team have in a patient's treatment journey. Cancer is not only an emotionally challenging disease but extremely physically demanding as well. Being able to provide recommendations and supports to the patients and seeing the outcome is continually gratifying.

What are your plans for the future? 

I was fortunate in receiving a sponsorship with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency as they do not offer the RT program in Saskatchewan. For this reason, I have promised 3 years of employment at SCC (Saskatoon Cancer Centre) as part of the return for service contract. I am beyond excited to begin employment in my hometown!

What advice would you like to share with prospective MRS students? 

The most valuable advice I can offer is to be kind to yourself throughout the process. The didactic and clinical aspects of the program are demanding but perseverance and patience will pay off. Don't hesitate to ask for help or seek out a mentor to help guide you. 🙂