Hey Reddit,
I know y’all are probably sick of the same question, but I really need some guidance. I’m a 30-year-old mom with a 7-year-old, living about 50 minutes outside Houston. (depending on traffic) I have family support, so I can go back to school full-time, and I’m ready to change career paths. I love my current private care job, i am self employed but with this job its unpredictable with patients. You can go a few years with patients to a couple months. It's very unpredictable. I want something more stable.
I’m stuck between diagnostic medical sonography and radiology. Here’s what I’m thinking:
Sonography – Heard demand is solid, and I’m considering specialties like Abdominal, OB/GYN, Cardiac (Adult/Pediatric), Vascular, and Musculoskeletal (MSK). I understand there will patient interaction but that's something I'm okay with.
Radiology – Base might be more limited, but there’s the potential to specialize later (MRI, CT, mammography, interventional radiology/IR). I’m wondering if the extra certifications and time are worth it long-term.
I’m hoping to hear from people who:
Made a similar career switch as a parent
Work in sonography or radiology, especially near Houston
Can share real insight on job market, pay, stress, and growth
I really want a path that’s worth the time and effort, manageable as a mom, and can lead to long-term opportunities. Any advice, stories, or guidance would mean a lot!
Thanks so much!