I never realized that taking my Certified Radiology Administrator (CRA) exam in May of 2023 would put me on the fast track to Indianapolis and AHRA’s Annual Meeting. AHRA My Way forever changed me as a new CRA and is making me a better leader.    

Making Connections Through AHRA My Way

I have been in the field of radiology for over 20 years and in a leadership role for a significant amount of that time. Recognizing this, I decided to pursue the CRA exam to highlight and elevate my potential. 

Soon after, in June 2023, I received an invitation to join an AHRA My Way call, a virtual lunch hour networking session. I had no idea what to expect — but what I received was an amazing outpouring of kindness and generosity.

I was immediately welcomed into the AHRA family by the other participants. Everyone on the call was enthusiastic, energetic, and engaging. I sat back, somewhat in awe of the longstanding friendships on display. 

As the session progressed, I knew that I was in a group of people that are supportive, informative, funny, and passionate about radiology management. I was encouraged to attend the upcoming Annual Meeting in Indianapolis that year.

It seemed that once the idea was spoken into the universe, everyone rallied and it became their mission to get me there. As luck or fate would have it, I received the $100 discount for the Annual Meeting that was provided by AHRA to a random new participant.

I was blessed even more by Becky Allen, 2023-2024 AHRA president, who generously donated her reward points for the balance of the registration fee. With AHRA’s support, including some of them even reaching out to my supervisor, I was approved by my organization and allowed to attend the conference.    

Warmly Welcomed at the 2023 Annual Meeting

To say I was nervous about attending the Annual Meeting is an understatement. I had just received my official letter congratulating me on passing the CRA exam and the only people I knew at the Annual Meeting were those I met at AHRA My Way.

I bravely walked up to the registration desk where I was warmly welcomed with excitement by two of the AHRA My Way participants. They immediately remembered me and were so glad I made it to the Annual Meeting.  

At the first-time attendee luncheon, I was searched out by so many of the call participants and officially welcomed to the AHRA family. The entire meeting was an event that allowed me to make new connections with colleagues and reconnect with old coworkers that now work for vendors.  

Why AHRA My Way?

I encourage everyone to participate in the AHRA My Way virtual lunch hour networking sessions. You never know whose life you will positively impact with your knowledge and resources.

The whole AHRA world has opened up to me, and it all started with one call. I’ve not only gained new contacts but, more importantly, a new family.