ARIANNA KITCHING (she/her)

What motivated you to choose Confederation College, and what inspired your decision to pursue your program?

I’ve always been passionate about healthcare and fascinated by human anatomy and helping others, particularly in ways that combine innovation with meaningful patient interaction. The Medical Radiation Technology program felt like the perfect fit. I liked that it was hands-on, had smaller class sizes, and blended science with direct patient care. I chose Confederation College because I’d heard great things about the program, the college and the supportive environment. It felt like a place where I could really grow, not just as a student, but as a future healthcare professional and leader.

What was the most impactful experience during your time at Confederation College, whether academic, extracurricular, or personal?

My clinical placements were incredibly impactful as they allowed me to put theory into practice while learning how to support patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. I also found mentorship from faculty and preceptors who encouraged my growth as a technologist and individual, and leadership potential. These connections last a lifetime, and I am still supported to this day from all those who mentored and taught me. That encouragement helped me envision not just a job, but a career where I could grow and take on greater responsibility over time.

How has your time at Confederation College shaped your journey, both personally and professionally?

Confederation College and the MRT program helped me become the person I am today. The program and my instructors emphasized professionalism, accountability, compassion and self-awareness which are qualities that I carry into every aspect of my work. It really shaped how I approach challenges in both my career and life. Since graduating, I’ve grown from being a new grad MRT to managing the constantly growing Diagnostic Imaging department at Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC). The mentorship and guidance I received from my instructors, preceptors, and fellow classmates have played a big role in getting me where I am today.

What are you up to now?

I graduated the MRT program in December 2019 and started a full-time 18-month MRT contract at SLMHC shortly after. That role turned into a permanent position, and now, just over five years later, I’m the Manager of Diagnostic Imaging. It’s been an incredible journey, especially being involved in major projects like developing MRI services for our region and advocating for essential healthcare services in our region. On top of that, I also own Lookout Dance Company, a competitive and recreation dance school I started in 2022. Dance has always been a big part of my life and running my own studio allows me to blend my love for movement, teaching, and community leadership in a totally different way.

Is there anything else you'd like to share? Whether it's personal or professional—have you recently bought a house, tied the knot, or received an award? We'd love to hear about it!

It’s been a really full and exciting few years! Between managing a growing DI department and running a dance studio, I’m proud of the work I’ve done to serve my community, both in healthcare and in the arts. I’m especially proud of the MRI project we’re rolling out. Bringing that level of care to Sioux Lookout and the surrounding region is a huge step forward for northern healthcare, and it means so much to be part of that change.