September 2007 | Vol. 25, No. 9

SVU Director Profile

Carol Kozusko

Student Representative on the SVU Board
Morristown Memorial Hospital
Morristown, NJ

Where do you go to ultrasound school and why did you pick that school?

I attend Morristown Memorial Hospital School of Cardiovascular Technology, in Morristown, NJ. The reason I decided to attend this school is that it is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The school is the only one in New Jersey to offer three clinical tracks to choose from. Upon program completion I will be eligible to take a national registry exam given by either ARDMS or CCI.

What made you decide to enter vascular technology as a career?

Having been a professional in the medical technology field for several years, I am familiar with the science of ultrasound. I had a growing desire to enter a new profession that would be somewhat challenging as well as rewarding, both financially and professionally. In addition, jobs in vascular technology have a future and are in demand.

When do you expect to graduate?

I am scheduled to graduate in March 2008. I also hold a BS degree in medical technology from Monmouth University in W. Long Branch, NJ

Where do you plan to look for your first professional position in vascular technology?

I have been offered a per diem job at Morristown Memorial Hospital in the Vascular Ultrasound Department.

What do you like best about being a vascular technologist?

As cardiovascular disease grows (it continues to be the number one killer in the U.S.), cardiovascular technologists perform and assist physicians in the diagnosis of heart and vascular disease, essentially saving lives.

When did you join SVU as a student member?

I joined the Society in the spring of 2007 as student member.

What motivated you to apply for the Student Representative position on the SVU Board of Directors?

I was motivated to apply for the student representative position on the SVU Board for a variety of reasons. I am proud to represent other students who take an interest in a profession related to patient care. I belong to a society that is 100% for me…supporting my career and further educating me…offering numerous educational resources and a voice representing us as a highly skilled professional group and keeping abreast of federal issues and regulations that may impact us.

What do you hope to accomplish while being on the Board this year?

Upon finding out about the student representative position my first thought was…wow what a great opportunity to become more involved in my future career! I felt this was an incredible opportunity to network with other vascular ultrasound technologists around the country, to attend the SVU Annual Conference where the Board of Directors meets, and to listen to highly skilled professionals making presentations to further my education and skills.

What do you like best so far about serving on the SVU Board?

As the student representative on the Board, I would like to take this opportunity to urge other vascular ultrasound students to become more involved, as the society consists of people like you. Through your SVU student membership you are creating the foundation for the society to function. You have a great society that supports your profession. It is the voice that speaks for you…making for a strong future for your profession. In addition, the society offers the annual conference (a great learning resource), a monthly online newsletter, the quarterly Journal and several other educational resources. During my one-year appointment to the Board I hope to interact with other students and inform them of the importance of representation by SVU. I encourage all vascular ultrasound students to join SVU today.

What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the vascular students today?

The SVU has opened my eyes to the issues that face our profession today and in the future. The importance of credentials, being registered, and how this will impact institutions getting paid in the future.

What tips would you give to today's ultrasound students about their career in the vascular ultrasound profession?

SVU has offered me the opportunity to sit on the Board of Directors and see first hand the sincerity and time invested by fellow members on the Board for the good of all of us. Attending the 2007 SVU Annual Conference in Baltimore was a learning experience beyond my expectations. I established new friendships with the people I met there and I can’t wait until my next opportunity to network with them.

How can SVU better serve its student members in the future?

The greatest issues facing vascular ultrasound students today start with the issues concerning how federal regulations will impact us in the near future, and the importance of attending an accredited school that will allow the students to become registered with either ARDMS as an RVT or CCI as an RVS. In the future, medical reimbursement will be closely linked to professionals having the proper credentials.
I urge SVU student members to take your society seriously and be proud of your accomplishments. You have chosen to become a dedicated professional with tremendous skills. Take it a step forward and join SVU and share with others as the Society shares with you.
Since today’s students are tomorrow’s professionals they need educational resources offered to them. The Society should provide representatives who are willing to travel to vascular ultrasound schools and give educational presentations or reviews, as well as discussions as to who SVU is and what it does for the vascular profession. Students also need the Society to provide review materials for their registry review testing.

What do you do for fun and relaxation when not working?

During my down time (the little that I have!), I love to bike tour, and weight train. During the winter months I look forward to skiing (even thought I broke my leg skiing this past January!). During the summer I love to be close to the beach and take walks along the waters edge. The beach is one of my favorite places to bike to or just sit on the sand and watch the sun set.

Any other comments you would like to add about your personal life, such as spouse, family and pets.

I live with my cat, Fenix, who is always excited to see me. I am the proud mother of two sons. This past May Steven graduated from Boston College. He was awarded a grant and is now working towards his masters in teaching. Bryan is back at college for his third year and working towards an undergraduate degree in Psychology.

(NOTE: SVU student members and others interested in contacting Carol can reach her by email at thekozuskos@yahoo.com.)