Commencement is coming up on Friday, Dec. 15, and we’re highlighting some of the incredible students who will soon be alumni of the College of Health Sciences.

Today we meet Jordan Goetsch of Lakeview, Oregon, who is completing an MHS in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences with an emphasis in imaging sciences. Jordan currently lives in Wasilla, Alaska, and was able to complete her degree at Mizzou through online courses.

Favorite Quote:

“If I am worth anything later, I am worth something now. For wheat is wheat, even if people think it is a grass in the beginning.”

Vincent Van Gogh

What does graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences mean to you?

Graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences is an opportunity that I never thought I’d have. I’d never considered getting my master’s degree when I was in school for my undergraduate degree because there weren’t programs that offered further education with a focus on my profession.

Once I began working in my field, I realized the passion that I have for ultrasound, and vascular ultrasound specifically. I found this program, which was newly created at the time, and knew that it was something I wanted to pursue.

What was one of your favorite classes within your degree track?

DMU 7332 Vascular Ultrasound was the course where I wrote a case study that I presented for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Scientific Presentation competition and was awarded first place. The case study was also published in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, a goal of mine since the beginning of my career. I’m glad that I had the opportunity to take this course and work with Dr. Douglas Clem on my case study!

What activities have you been involved in along the way?

My education at Mizzou was all long-distance, so I unfortunately haven’t had the chance to get involved in Mizzou activities as much as I would’ve liked. I am grateful to all of my professors who had my classmates and I work in groups and encouraged us to get to know each other.

Who helped you during your college journey?

Dr. Douglas Clem played a huge role in my success at Mizzou and helped me reach my goal of getting published!

What memories stand out from your time at Mizzou?

Having my case study published was by far the most memorable accomplishment of my time at Mizzou. As I said, this has been a goal of mine since the beginning of my career.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to continue working in my field and helping others discover their passion for vascular ultrasound. Part of my capstone project was to begin developing the first vascular ultrasound program in the state of Alaska, and I plan to continue working toward that as well as educating current sonographers on the topic.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

This has been a wonderful experience for me! I’ve learned a lot and expanded my network during my time at Mizzou. I encourage everyone who feels called to pursue higher education in their field to do so and to take advantage of the many opportunities that Mizzou has to offer.