August 18, 2022

Radiation Therapy Technology program aims high during second annual team building event

By Assistant Clinical Professor Alisa Kagen

To paraphrase the eloquent words of Elton John, "We're still standing, better than we ever did. Looking like a true survivor, feeling like a little kid!"

On Wednesday, Aug. 17, Radiation Therapy Technology junior students participated in our program's second annual team building excursion at TreeRunner Adventure Parks in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

Cancer patients and survivors have a tremendous fear of the unknown and never are quite certain what the next step in their journey may bring. During this exercise, we experienced a little fear and a little adrenaline, and at times were a little scared to take the next step!   

Words of encouragement from classmates, taking a team approach and literally showing each other the ropes helped our class. These same techniques can be used in a clinical setting to help patients navigate their cancer journey.

Team building is a very important aspect of our profession. This event helped students work on skills such as:

• Communication development
• Conflict management
• Leadership development
• Trust building
• Creative problem solving
• Time and resource management

See more photos on Flickr, then check out the story and photos from our 2021 inaugural event.

Radiation therapists have a unique opportunity to blend the knowledge and skills of mathematics, science and psychology in their daily work. Radiation therapists operate sophisticated radiation equipment to treat malignant tissue, assist in designing cancer treatment through the use of 3D computer-generated calculations, recognize when a patient is having additional medical problems that require a doctor's attention and provide psychological support for patients who are dealing with the stress of their illness. The bachelor of science in Radiation Therapy Technology is offered through Wayne State’s Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with an application deadline of Nov. 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 25,000 students.

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