I'm a Sonographer

Dec 2023 / Jan 2024

Michelle Hasbrouck • as told to Ellen Song

Michelle Hasbrouck

Michelle Hasbrouck can see inside people’s bodies. No, she doesn’t have magical powers! She’s a sonographer. Sonographers work with ultrasound machines. These machines use sound waves to make images of your insides. A sonographer is a bridge between patients and doctors. The images Michelle creates help the doctor figure out why the patient might be in pain. Michelle specializes in taking images of the insides of patients’ veins. She can also check on how a baby is developing before it’s born. Keep reading to learn more about this important and exciting profession.

I’ve always been drawn to science. In school, I loved biology class and learning about the human body. I was interested in understanding what makes each organ system tick.

When I was 28, I went to an info session about sonography. I was fascinated. To get my degree, I completed a two-year sonography program and did internships called clinical rotations.

If a patient is having problems with their circulation, I use ultrasound to search for blockages in the veins and arteries. These types of scans are my favorite because I get to solve a puzzle.

One time, a young patient was very nervous during his scan. I asked him what he liked to do to feel calm. He said he liked to sing Broadway show tunes, so we sang together during his exam!

Today I work at a small community hospital. I love what I do! The pay is great, the work is interesting, and I love taking care of my neighbors. It’s thrilling to be part of their happy news.