Losing Sight of a Dream and Getting it Back
About 15 years ago I stumbled across the world of medical transcription. I had seen a few flyers come through in the mail and a couple of television commercials, which if nothing else sparked my interest in the profession. While doing some research I came across the book
"How to become a Medical Transcriptionist" by George Morton, CMT. It provided great insight into the world of medical transcription and it was after reading that book that I decided that this is what I wanted to do. I eventually found a certificate program from my local community college and I enrolled.
I worked full-time, went to school part-time and really enjoyed my studies. It was a fascinating program and after almost 2 years of school, I graduated, in May 2003. My job at the time was in telecommunications and while I made good money, I began looking for work as a transcriptionist. As you probably will guess, that was not an easy task. I quickly learned that experience is big and at the same time, most places that I checked into did not have the time to take on a "newbie". I was left with a question that I'm sure we're all familiar with in one way or another: "How can I get experience if no one will give me a chance?" So, with that, I decided to stay where I was, with the company that I had been with since moving to NY--familiar, secure and enjoying a steady paycheck.
As time went on, the desire to work from home grew and knowing we'd be starting a family in the near future fueled that desire even more. However, I realized that I didn't feel confident enough in what I remembered of the coursework I had completed previously and 5 years after graduating from my MT program, I found myself back at square one. I sometimes kick myself for letting so much time go by before recommitting to my goals, but, I am here now and that is what matters. I have been very fortunate to have been able to stay home with my daughter these past two years and I want that to continue.
I can say that it feels different this time, which leads me to believe that maybe I just wasn't ready for a big change a few years ago. I know that I will be more prepared this time to head into the world of medical transcription!