From NCCC Radiologic Technology to Radiologist Assistant
Student Story: Tyler Belleau ’15
SARANAC LAKE -- When Tyler Belleau was growing up in Potsdam, he lived next door to a radiologist. He was fascinated by the idea of using medical imaging to help diagnose and treat disease.
That early inspiration stuck with him—and today, more than a decade later, he works alongside that very same radiologist as a Radiologist Assistant at Rochester Regional Health’s Canton-Potsdam Hospital.
But Tyler’s path to his dream career started when he enrolled at North Country Community College with his sights set on the Radiologic Technology program.
Finding His Footing at NCCC
It wasn’t easy. Tyler didn’t get in to the program on his first try, but he didn’t give up. With encouragement from program director Becky LaDue, he took additional classes to strengthen his application. He kept working, studying, and checking back in to show he was determined. A year later, he was accepted into the program.
“My experience as a student at North Country was everything I could have hoped for and more,” Tyler said. “The moral of my story is this: if you want something badly enough and work hard, you will be successful.”
Small Classes, Supportive Instructors
Tyler says the supportive environment at North Country made all the difference. With small class sizes, he never felt like just a number. Instructors were deeply invested in student success—staying late for office hours, answering questions by email, and encouraging students every step of the way.
“You could tell they were passionate about teaching,” he said. “I can’t remember a time when an instructor wasn’t available when I needed help.”
Continuing His Education
After graduating from North Country in 2015 with his A.A.S. in Radiologic Technology, Tyler became a licensed Radiologic Technologist and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in medical imaging. From there, he was accepted into the highly competitive Radiologist Assistant (RA) program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The two-year program prepared him for an advanced practice career in radiology. RAs work under the supervision of radiologists, performing invasive and non-invasive procedures, conducting patient assessments, assisting with management, and even serving as a vital link between technologists, radiologists, and other providers.
“With the large shortage of healthcare providers, RAs play an essential role in enhancing patient care,” Tyler explained. “RAs are in high demand now more than ever, with job postings across the country.”
A Career That Fits
For Tyler, becoming an RA was a perfect fit. “As soon as I became a technologist, I knew I wanted to do more. I loved radiology and wanted to stay in it. The RA route tailored to me perfectly,” he said.
Unlike other midlevel providers such as Nurse Practitioners or Physician Assistants, RAs train exclusively in radiology for two years, preparing them to contribute immediately after graduation.
Why NCCC?
Looking back, Tyler credits North Country with giving him both the foundation and the confidence to pursue his goals.
“I would recommend the college to absolutely anyone,” he said. “Community colleges like North Country are perfect for anyone looking for a quality education with instructors who truly care about their students’ success. Many of them even keep in touch years after graduation. I wouldn’t be where I am today without that start.”
“Tyler’s journey is a wonderful example of perseverance and determination,” said Becky LaDue, director of the college’s Radiologic Technology program. “At North Country, we take pride in supporting students who are willing to put in the work to reach their goals. Seeing him grow from a dedicated student in our program to a Radiologist Assistant making a difference in patient care is exactly why we do what we do.”
Interested in a career in Radiologic Technology? Learn more about NCCC’s program at www.nccc.edu/radtech