When one job offer slipped away, Emily Lynch, a graduate of the cardiac sonography program at Arkansas Tech University-Ozark, didn’t let it define her. Instead, she embraced the situation and ended up at one of the nation’s leading hospitals.
Emily found her calling in cardiac sonography after attending her mother’s cardiology appointments. “Something clicked,” she said. “For the first time, I felt a sense of purpose.” She enrolled in the cardiac sonography program at ATU-Ozark in 2024, a decision she describes as both challenging and rewarding.
In the summer of 2025, during her final semester, Emily moved to Little Rock to complete her training. When the job she anticipated fell through, she didn’t let it discourage her. Instead, she researched the top cardiology hospitals across the country and was soon flooded with opportunities. Ultimately, she accepted a position at Duke University Hospital.
“If it weren’t for that setback, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” Lynch reflected. Her journey highlights a key fact: setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. She credits the solid foundation and support from her instructors at ATU-Ozark. “Emily showed incredible determination,” said Kristen Wendling, chair of the program. “We’re proud of her achievements.”
Emily now feels grateful for her role at Duke, stating, “The training I’m getting here is truly once-in-a-lifetime.” Her experience aligns with a recent report from the American Society of Echocardiography, which found that hands-on practice significantly boosts skills in sonography.
Meanwhile, the cardiac sonography program at ATU-Ozark recently received an upgrade to its training equipment through the HIRED grant program. This initiative, funded by the Workforce Initiative Act of 2015, aims to enhance educational resources and workforce training in Arkansas. The new equipment allows students to practice on a wider range of procedures and patient types.
Wendling expressed her gratitude, saying, “This funding is transforming our program. It enhances learning and prepares students to enter the workforce with exceptional skills.” The upgrade includes advanced cardiac sonography machines and simulators, further boosting the quality of education for future professionals like Emily.
In today’s job market, adaptability is crucial. Lynch’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the importance of lifelong learning in achieving career goals. Whether faced with setbacks or successes, the journey shapes future experts in any field.
