The Impact of Clinical Practices on the Professional Approach of Imaging Students: From the Classroom to the Cabinet

Introduction: Bridging the gap from lectures in the classroom to clinical practices is one of the most crucial moments in the life of a radiology student, and it impacts their career development and satisfaction level with their work, especially for the desired career. This research aims to assess how clinical practice influences the career choices of radiology students, looking at their practical exposure to the profession and perceptions. Objective: The study investigates whether practical radiology experiences support or contradict students’ initial career motivations by contrasting their attitudes and expectations before and after clinical exposure. Methodology: The study includes interviews and surveys with radiology students at various educational stages, as well as the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data. Two interviews were conducted with the students: one prior to and one subsequent to their clinical exposure. Results: According to the findings, clinical exposure is essential for fostering students’ enthusiasm for the field, for 79% of first-year students and 94% of third-year students. Important elements like patient interaction, innovation in technology, and workplace culture affect their long-term job satisfaction. Conclusion: Given that radiology is one of the most popular field among high school graduates and that approximately 200 imaging technicians graduate annually only from the Faculty of Medical Technical Sciences Tirana, this study also offers insightful information for new educational strategies and program development aimed at improving curriculum design, to better support students during clinical training, and ultimately to help them make informed decisions about their future in radiology.