ASU Commencement Spotlight: Niyah DeCruz, Associate of Science Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Niyah DeCruz, Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

FUTURE PLANS: DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHER, WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSICIAN OFFICE, NEW YORK

Niyah DeCruz, a Queens, New York native, will graduate on May 9 with an Associate of Science Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She is passionate about giving back to her community. She is the first in her class to take and pass board exams for the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) in the abdomen specialty. She also received the ASU Clinical Excellence Award. Niyah has accepted a position as a diagnostic medical sonographer at a women’s health physician office in her home state of New York. She is also working to obtain her OB/GYN credential through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

 

What motivated you to learn more about your field? 
After my own personal experience with sonography, I was intrigued by the profession and knew I wanted to pursue this career path.

Why did you choose ASU?
Knowing I wanted to get the full college experience by being away from home, I chose ASU after doing the research to find an accredited sonography program. ASU was the only HBCU on the list which made it special and my number one choice.

How did ASU prepare you to succeed after matriculation?
ASU prepared me to succeed by providing me with the best professors that care about me and my education.

What do you love most about your chosen profession?
What I love most about my profession is the patient care. I love getting to wake up every day being able to help someone.

Who at ASU has made the biggest impact on you and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?
My program director Kacey Davis has had the biggest impact on me and is the greatest role model. Kacey has supported and encouraged me throughout my journey of becoming a diagnostic medical sonographer. She has gone above and beyond to build individual relationships with all her students both in and outside of the classroom. She has pushed us all to become the greatest versions of ourselves.

What advice would you give to other ASU students?
Stay focused and work hard towards your goals, never give up. You are here to learn and invest in yourself, do not waste the opportunity. Sacrifice now for a better life later.

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?
Be smart, do your research and make sure this is the right fit for you. Enjoy your college experience because you only get one, but never forget the reason you are here.