I remember working slowly through the Andrews modules and really being interested in hearing the experiences of newly graduated and employed students, so just in case others feel the same, here is what is currently going on with me.
I was so excited to finally graduate from The Andrews School and start looking for an actual job as an MT! In the middle of May I started applying for all kinds of jobs that I found on the Andrews website or just through my own research. I ended up testing for several and was offered 2 positions over the next month. One thing to remember is that it takes time for the MTSOs to go through all the applications they receive, and even more to grade the tests that come in, so patience is important. There is no need to get worried or frustrated if you don't hear back from someone immediately. Easier said than done, I know.
The first position I was offered was through Princeton, which seemed like a really nice place to start as a beginner (part time, each day's reports would be all from the same doctor, all one specialty, no ESL) but it was a lower pay rate and that strange 45 day delay in your paycheck, so when Inscribe offered me a full-time, acute care position shortly after, I chose them instead. I knew working for Inscribe would be a lot more difficult, but they also have really high standards for their employees, so I know that if I can make it with them it will be something to be proud of.
I adore Inscribe. They are so welcoming, and I feel like I am truly part of a team here. One thing I really love is the fact that each account is set up with what they call a 'blast room,' which is basically an AIM chat room where we can ask for help on blanks or questions about the dictators. Everyone has been extremely friendly and helpful, and they made a newbie like me feel at home and not nervous at all to ask for help and support when I need it. This is especially important to me because the account I was hired for is primarily ESL. There are a few native English speakers, but mostly I am dealing with accents so having the blast room full of MTs with experience on this account is crucial for me. I started work with Inscribe on July 4th, and as I expected, it was very slow at the beginning as I was getting used to their platform and dictators. I am STILL getting used to the dictators, but the one who almost made me cry the first week is now one of my easier doctors because he says the same thing every time. So after 2 or 3 of his reports, he was easy peasy. So now I'm three weeks in, and I watch my LPH increase a little every day as I get more comfortable here.
I know right now Inscribe is getting a couple new accounts and is looking to hire a ton of new people, so by all means apply if you are looking for work! Just pay close attention to the Inscribe account specifics (standards) while testing because they want to make sure you follow directions well. (Gee, where have we heard that before?!)
Andrews prepared me well for work as an MT, even for this tough ESL account. If you join the team here at Inscribe, let me know! You can find me in the blast rooms. :)
-->Natalie
I'm so glad you posted this! I am almost done with Module IV and am of course starting to think ahead to jobs. Well, I've been thinking about jobs since I started but you know what I mean :) Good to know there is a light at the end of the tunnel!
Hi Natalie,
I, too, went to work with a company that made me feel very comfotable and welcomed as a newbie. I wonder if you'd mind emailing me so I can ask you some questions. My email is sn422@sbcglobal.net.
Thanks,
Sarah
Natalie,
It is encouraging to hear you have found a company who welcomes newbies and are enjoying your work! :) I am almost finished with Module IV!
Congratulations!! I can only imagine how exciting it is to be a full time MT now!!Loved reading about your experiences, thank you for sharing. I'm in Module 1 and am just starting to transcribe my practices, looking forward to improving and your note was very encouraging!