RTT students head to the trees to practice teamwork

Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.

– Michael Jordan

On Aug. 4, 2021, Wayne State University Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Radiation Therapy Technology (RTT) students and faculty embarked on a team-building experience at TreeRunner Adventure Park in West Bloomfield, MI. 

"Because of restrictions due to the pandemic, until now our students have had limited opportunities to interact, connect or develop a camaraderie, said Assistant Clinical Professor of RTT Alisa Kagen. "The ropes course was a unique way for our students to work as team." 

RTT students build trust on a ropes course

RTT students build trust on a ropes course

Check out the complete photo album from this event on Flickr!

Teamwork is a critical aspect of the RTT profession, as it takes a collaborative approach among professionals in various fields to help patients navigate their cancer experience and treatment. 

An RTT student celebrates success on the ropes course"Every radiation therapist must be good partner in the process for the benefit of our patients," Kagen said. "It is not always easy working with various personality types, working under stressful situations and working with patients who are in pain and going through an extremely difficult time in their lives." 

This experience gave students a chance to step outside their comfort zone and work together outside the clinic, building invaluable skills including communication, conflict resolution, leadership development, trust, creative problem solving, and time and resource management.

"The students bonded and exhibited great teamwork and spirit," said RTT Program Director Jeannetta Greer. "They were each helping, encouraging and cheering each other on as they climbed and walked the various planks and ropes.

"They helped and motivated me to do something I would not have done on my own."

Photo album


Information meetings for prospective students take place at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. The application deadline for the Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy Technology program is November 30.

An anchor in urban health care
The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels — from undergraduates to veteran faculty members — translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to more than 26,000 students.

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