McKenzie Mitchell, a spring graduate of McNeese State University’s Department of Radiology, has made history by becoming the first McNeese Radiology student to publish her paper, “Imaging Evidence of Eating Disorders,” before graduating. She is also the first student in the nation to have a single-authored paper published in a journal before being awarded her national certification.
This article appeared in our January 2024 issue. radiation technologyJournal of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
Mitchell, of DeRidder, found his passion for radiology at McNeese. She said she wanted a degree that offered job security, income potential, and growth opportunities.
“Through my classes, I realized that radiology is something I really enjoy,” Mitchell said.
She originally wrote the article as a class assignment and had no intention of publishing it. This article focuses on eating disorders and how advances in medical imaging have changed the way eating disorders are treated.
“Eating disorders are a topic that is particularly close to my heart as I have struggled with them myself,” Mitchell explained. “My article also attempts to answer whether structural changes in the brains of people diagnosed with eating disorders are a cause or a consequence of their eating disorders.”
After submitting my assignment, my professor suggested I submit a paper to the American College of Radiologic Technologists.
“I was honored when my professor suggested that I submit my paper for publication,” she said.
From there, Mitchell worked with the journal’s publishing staff to revise his work. After submitting her final revision, she learned that her article would be published in her January issue.
With this publication, she became the first student in the nation to have a single-authored article published in a journal before being awarded a national qualification.
“I’m glad that people are reading and learning more about eating disorders and how they affect individuals,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell accepted a position as a computed tomography technician at Lake Charles Memorial Health System.
McNeese offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiological Science through the College of Nursing and Health Professions, one of only 50 accredited radiological science degrees in the country. McNeese’s radiological science degree program boasts a 98% first-time pass rate on the national certification exam.
“I’m excited to be able to use my education and skills while helping patients,” Mitchell said. “I’m so proud and grateful for all the support and encouragement I’ve received from my professors at McNeese.”
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