Current Position: Radiation Therapist, St. Luke's University Health Network
There is always support available. GMercyU helped me grow not only as a person, but also as a healthcare professional.
A Quakertown Community High School graduate of 2015, Ciara was first introduced to GMercyU by her older sister, Krissy, who earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University.
“She is one of the reasons why I chose to attend Gwynedd Mercy. She inspires me and I truly look up to her,” shared Ciara.
Ciara’s mom accompanied her on her first visit to campus.
“It was a super sweet moment for me as I decided what I wanted for my future, and I was headed right towards it by attending GMercyU,” Ciara said.
Experience in Radiation Therapy
Prior to attending GMercyU, Ciara worked in a Medical Oncology department as a patient care assistant, providing daily care for patients battling cancer. It was during this role that she decided she wanted to pursue a career as a radiation therapist.
I knew in the moments of helping these people day to day that I wanted to do MORE. I wanted to have a part in helping people BEAT cancer. I wanted to be there and support those fighting every day and guide them with compassion and positivity. I wanted to make a difference during one of the most challenging and trying times in a person’s life.
Ciara was a non-traditional student, and building a family amidst her studies. She gave birth to her two children, Kenna and Bryson, during her time in the program.
“Wow, looking back I remember wondering how I was going to do it. Many tears were shed, I struggled at times, and overcame many obstacles,” Ciara shared. “Despite everything, I continued my studies, clinical rotations, and continued learning through two pregnancies and two births.”
“My experience in the Radiation Therapy program has helped me grow and become the person I am today and the radiation therapist that I will soon be,” Ciara said, who became a member of Lambda Nu National Honor Society despite having to juggle life and her studies.
Gaining Real-World Experience
Ciara completed four clinical rotations. Her first, during her sophomore year, was at Lehigh Valley Hospital, followed by Doylestown Hospital, Asplundh Cancer Pavilion, and St. Luke’s University Health Network.
Her primary responsibilities included learning and participating.
“Participation was big. I gained my skills and knowledge by participating and asking questions,” said Ciara.
As she gained more experience, her responsibilities increased. By the time she was a senior, Ciara was performing just about every function a licensed radiation therapist does – CT simulations, patient set-ups on the treatment machines, and treating the patient at the console, which consists of taking images to confirm the patient is in the correct spot and adjusting if necessary.
Post-Graduation
After graduating in 2024, Ciara’s goal is to pass the boards. She has also accepted a position with St. Luke’s University Health Network as a radiation therapist.
