Michael Hidalgo

When Michael Hidalgo sensed that it was time to transition into a new career field, he considered his interests, skills and values.

Healthcare stood out, specifically something that would require shorter-term training, have some patient care, involve different modalities and offer competitive pay.

While accompanying his grandmother to ultrasound appointments to manage a chronic health condition, “watching those exams sparked my interest,” said Hidalgo. “I’ve always enjoyed anatomy and the human body, and it felt like a skill I would genuinely enjoy.”

Researching ultrasound programs was the next step in Hidalgo’s journey, and Triton College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program was near his home in Chicago.

“I also have a sister-in-law who completed the program at Triton College a few years ago and spoke highly of it,” added Hidalgo.

Hidalgo worked full time at his job in corporate logistics while completing prerequisites at Triton.

Many of Triton’s selective admissions health programs can only enroll a certain number of applicants each semester, and Hidalgo said he was accepted to Triton’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program on his third attempt.

The perseverance was worth it to Hidalgo, and he encourages other students who are considering a similar program that “when the time is right, the door will open. And once it’s open, give it all you have.”

“It’s a two-year program, so it seems long, but that time will pass regardless,” added Hidalgo. “If you’re going to commit to it, make sure it’s something you really want.”

At Triton, Hidalgo found welcoming learning spaces like the library and the health and sciences building (H-Building), where he met other students who were also preparing for health care careers and trained on ultrasound equipment during labs.

He had instructors like Diagnostic Medical Sonography Chairperson Heather Amwoza and Clinical Coordinator Jeffrey Pasieka, each of whom holds advanced credentials: Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) and Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT).

Amwoza is approachable to students during lectures and office hours. She “brings a wealth of knowledge from her time in the field and shares it in a way that truly enhances our learning experience,” and is “the pulse that keeps this program running,” said Hidalgo.

“At Triton, our goal is not only to teach students how to perform ultrasound exams, but to help them think critically, communicate effectively, and provide compassionate patient care,” said Amwoza. “Watching students like Michael grow into confident, skilled sonographers is what makes this work so meaningful.”

Pasieka places and supports students in their clinical rotations. As “a phenomenal instructor,” Hidalgo said Pasieka “ingrained the principles of physics into our foundation.”

“His hands-on approach to lectures and activities kept us engaged and allowed us to fully grasp concepts rather than simply memorize them,” continued Hidalgo.

Clinical rotations affirmed for Hidalgo that his choice of diagnostic medical sonography was the right one, as it “allows me to combine technical skill with empathy.”

“As sonographers, we are often the first to identify and document findings that guide a physician’s diagnosis,” said Hidalgo. “In many ways, we act as their eyes, helping provide a clearer picture of a patient's condition.”

Hidalgo’s clinical experiences included everything from transplants and pathology to pediatrics, and after he graduates in May 2026, he said he looks forward to working in a hospital setting and serving a diverse patient population.

Recently, Hidalgo’s Triton education prepared him for his abdominal specialty board exam, which he passed on the first try.

And, as a diagnostic medical sonographer, Hidalgo will improve the quality of life for both his patients and himself.

“Whether it’s identifying a potential hernia, contributing to a cancer workup, or evaluating a transplant, our role has a direct impact on patient care,” said Hidalgo.

“That level of responsibility is incredibly rewarding,” he added. “Being part of the process that uncovers a diagnosis and moves a patient toward the right treatment plan is what brings me the most fulfilment.”