20 Resources for Every Stage of the Sonographer Journey

Are you looking for all the sonography career advice you could ever want? You found it!  

We’ve curated our best content and resources into one easy-to-use reference article. Just find the statement that best describes you, click the link, and discover helpful information specifically for your stage of the sonographer journey. 

1. I’m Considering It 

Sonography is an attractive career path for many reasons. It usually requires only two years at an accredited school, offers a comparatively high salary, and keeps you engaged through unique challenges and variety in your day-to-day work. As you consider this field, see if these resources come in handy. 

• I need more information. We highly recommend you start with How to Become a Sonographer from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). It answers the why and how of becoming a sonographer and introduces the specialties you can pursue. 

• I want to apply to a school. We have lots of tips for getting accepted to a diagnostic imaging program. These programs are highly competitive, and we don’t want you to miss the chance to gain an edge. If you haven’t chosen a program yet, we have some advice for that too! 

• I need help paying for school. If you’re accepted or enrolled in an accredited program, we’d love to see you apply for BB Imaging’s biannual Sonography Scholarship. We give away $500 every spring and fall. Plus, we’ve compiled a list of the best scholarships the sonography community has to offer. 

2. I’m Just Getting Started 

We’re so excited for you! Sonography is a highly rewarding career, and many of our team members find their purpose and fulfillment in this profession. We can’t wait to watch you learn, grow, and excel in this incredible field. 

• I’m a new grad—or about to be. Congratulations! You’ve taken a huge step by getting through classes and clinical hours, and the best is yet to come. We’ve gathered the best advice for graduating sonographers from our clinical team to help you start strong. 

• My next step is board exams. Passing boards can feel like a monumental task, but we’re here to help you break it down into manageable steps. From studying to practicing to testing with confidence, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need. 

• I’m looking for a job. You’ve got the skills, you’ve got the knowledge, and now it’s time to get paid. We can help you prepare for an interview and ace a speed interview. Plus... we are almost always hiring sonographers. If you haven’t checked our job board yet, please do! We’d love to see your application. 

3. I’m Working My Way Up 

A sonography career presents so many exciting opportunities that it can be difficult to decide which ones are most worth pursuing. We encourage you to embrace different seasons as you experience them and remember you always have the power to stop what isn’t serving you, start something new, or pause to rest and reevaluate. 

• I just want to maintain my current skillset. This is a great place to be. What you already know is highly valuable and deserves to be maintained at the highest level. If you need any help with that, check out these CME and learning resources. 

• I don’t know what to pursue next. If you’re starting to feel like it’s time for something new, try using these six steps to help you set a professional goal. 

• I’m overwhelmed and burned out. Unfortunately, this does happen. While working hard and pursuing goals is important, finding ways to rest is vital for a long, successful career. If that feels easier said than done, we recommend reading How to Take a Break Without Taking PTO. Take your favorite idea or two and staring building some rest into your week.  

4. I’m a Seasoned Professional 

It's such an honor to sit at the pinnacle of your profession—but don’t let it get lonely at the top! Knowledge is meant to be shared, and there are so many who can benefit from your hard-earned wisdom. 

• I want to set an example. Young professionals look up to you, and not just for scanning guidance. Help them become well-rounded leaders by demonstrating how to balance confidence and humility in the workplace. 

• I want to provide advice. You might be surprised by how many people want career advice, but don’t know how to ask for it. Start with this article to see our tips for participating in mutually fulfilling sonography mentorships. 

• I want something more. If you’re looking for a way to take your advanced skillset in a different direction, have you considered remote work? Telesonography is touted as a great solution for providers and patients, but it also benefits sonographers. 

5. Bonus Goodies for Everyone 

No matter what stage of the sonographer journey you find yourself in, you’ll benefit from brushing up on these timeless topics. 

• You can create a long and healthy career by embracing healthy ergonomics.  

• You can practice effective communication whether you’re in-clinic, across the digital divide, or wading through a tough conversation. 

• You can be confident in your value. If you ever doubt it, here’s a love letter to sonographers that will convince you otherwise! 

We hope you find this article useful as you progress in your sonography career, and we’d love to hear from you. What advice can you add? Drop it in the comments below! 

P.S. If you want more career-boosting content like this, subscribe to our monthly newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!