Maddie Sabala
Student, Class of 2026
Hometown
Clackamas, Oregon
sabala_madeline

Extracurricular Activities

Horseback riding, volunteering at the Oregon Humane Society, reading

A Little Bit About Me

I grew up in Clackamas, OR, with my twin brother and a single mom. My biggest passion growing up would definitely be animals, having a Labradoodle named Lily and a horse named Ollie. The reason I didn't pursue a career with animals is that I know I would not be able to emotionally handle seeing them in pain or making the choice to euthanize them. So instead, I looked for a career where I could be of help while not constantly having to make life-and-death decisions. Background characters are the backbone and just as important in the care of others. That's my resolve in going into x-ray, being the backbone, and trying my hardest every day to make others' stay in the hospital a bit better.

Why I Chose Oregon Tech and My Major

I actually chose Oregon Tech for its medical imaging program, being one of the only schools to have an x-ray bachelor's program. Getting an entire year for an externship where we can see exactly what it will be like when we go out on our own was a unique opportunity that also drew me in. For my major, I want as much experience and practical teaching as I can get and Oregon Tech will do just that.

My Influential Professors

The most influential professor here by far for me would be Professor McClure, my anatomy professor. She has gotten me through 2 terms and is currently helping me finish out the year. Her bubbly personality and willingness to do anything to help her students truly put her ahead of any teacher I've had. She hosts her own study sessions, believing in giving her students the best chance to succeed by having her available for any questions that we may have. I have never met a teacher more dedicated to her students than McClure and I couldn't be luckier to have her as a professor.

My Greatest Learning Experience At Oregon Tech

My greatest learning experience was navigating life on my own in the dorms. Living on my own for the first time was very nerve-wracking for me. However, thanks to the residence hall association, I was able to participate in many activities that allowed me to connect and make friends. This helped me adjust to the college experience and made this experience exciting instead of stressful.

My Plans After Graduation

After getting into the program and graduating I hope to go right into work, working as an x-ray tech in a hospital setting and helping as many people as I possibly can. I want to hopefully work at OHSU, which is close to my family, and gain even more experience working with all different kinds of people. Making patients' stays just a little bit more enjoyable for the short time I would get to interact with them.