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Nate Richards - Surgical Technologist

Why did you pick your program?

When I was a sophomore in high school, I decided to take the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class at Western. I started working part-time at a local nursing home shortly thereafter. It soon became apparent that I enjoyed taking care of people and making a difference in their lives. However, I knew I probably did not want to continue as a CNA permanently, so I started looking into health programs offered at Western. After studying the choices, I selected Surgical Technologist – a great fit for me!

What things do you think a student thinking about getting into Surg Tech should be interested in?

I would say that you definitely need an interest in the medical field and a heart for helping and serving others. Anyone interested in this program should have an interest in anatomy, medical terminology and interacting with a variety of medical professionals. Also, an interest in medical procedures performed – there are numerous procedures and it is the job of the surgical technologist to be able to prepare and assist for whatever procedure is being utilized.

Were you worried about any part of the program before you got started?

When I first started the program I thought I made a big mistake because I listened to people say that this was a woman’s occupation and not a man’s, you won’t fit in, people will make fun of you. Therefore, I was concerned about fitting in and felt an overwhelming need to make an impression. Also, I was concerned as to whether I would be disciplined enough to learn everything there was to learn. Needless to say the instructors and fellow classmates made me feel comfortable and very confident quickly.

What do you like best about your career?

There are a lot of things that I like about this career. I guess if I had to pick just one it would be at day’s end, whether good or bad, while leaving the OR, I can recall each room and what took place, and know that I played an important part in the healing and/or improvement of that person’s health condition.

Nate, anything else you think a male student (or any student) might want to know before they start the program?

I would like to leave you with a quote from Lakeshmi Mittal that has inspired me to be the best I can “Hard work certainly goes a long way. These days a lot of people work hard, so you have to make sure you work even harder and really dedicate yourself to what you are doing and setting out to achieve.” My take on this quote is to always try your very best and attempt to reach the top. However, if you should fall short, don’t beat yourself up. At day’s end if you know you worked hard and put forth your best effort you have done what you set out to do. A few thoughts to leave you with …ask questions … get to know your peers … enjoy your time in this program … it’s a lot of fun … and a lot of hard work, but it surely does go fast! Don’t blink; it’ll all be over way too fast!

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