Business Letter

Personal Letter: The Letter Time Forgot to Deliver

Key Terms in Radiologic Technology

📌 Formal Definitions:

1. Radiography – Radiography is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the internal structures of the body, allowing healthcare professionals to diagnose and monitor medical conditions.
2. Computed Tomography (CT) – Computed Tomography (CT) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-ray measurements taken from different angles and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of tissues and structures inside the body.
3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the organs and tissues in the body.
4. Brachytherapy – Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy where radioactive material is placed directly inside or near a tumor to target cancer cells precisely.
5. Fluoroscopy – Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to obtain real-time moving images of the internal structures of the body, often used in guiding medical procedures.

📌 Informal Definitions:

1. X-ray – An X-ray is a quick and painless test that takes pictures of the inside of your body, like your bones and organs.
2. Ultrasound – An ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to make pictures of the inside of your body, often used to check babies during pregnancy.
3. Radiologist – A radiologist is a doctor who looks at medical images, like X-rays or MRIs, to figure out what's wrong with a patient.
4. Lead Apron – A lead apron is a heavy protective cover that you wear during X-rays to keep the radiation from affecting certain parts of your body.
5. Scan – A scan is a type of medical test that takes detailed pictures of the inside of your body to help doctors understand what’s going on.

Unique Bonds: Differences and Similarities in My Family

The foundation of my family tree lies in its roots, representing the seed that gave life to the branches. Just as roots keep a tree strong and steady, my grandparents give strength and support to our family. On my father’s side, my grandmother, Norita G. Cabaluna, and my grandfather, Remeias O. Cabaluna, are both lively and healthy, and I am truly grateful for that. My grandmother loves to cook, just like my father, and their specialty dishes always bring our family together. My grandfather, on the other hand, is a man of few words, but his actions speak louder than anything—something I see reflected in my father’s quiet yet dependable nature. On my mother’s side, my grandmother, Rosalyn A. Pahulayan, and my grandfather, Rodrigo N. Pahulayan, are also full of life and energy. Unlike my father’s side, my mother’s side enjoys storytelling and conversation. My grandmother, especially, loves sharing funny and heartfelt stories from her youth—something my mother has inherited. While my father expresses his love through actions, my mother is more vocal and affectionate, always offering words of encouragement and warmth. Despite these differences, both sides of my family share a strong and constant love and support for each other.

My parents, who grew from the roots, now serve as the strong branches that give strength and guidance to me and my siblings. My father, Javier G. Cabaluna, is a loving and responsible provider. He is naturally disciplined, always ensuring we have what we need. He’s also reserved, preferring to show his love through actions rather than words. My mother, Delina Cabaluna, is quite the opposite. She is more easygoing, expressive, and always ready to listen. While my father teaches us the value of hard work and responsibility, my mother reminds us to enjoy life and not be afraid to try new things. Despite their differences, both of them serve as the strong branches that support and protect our family. Another thing that connects them is their shared love for dogs. Our family has always loved dogs, and they are very much a part of our lives. Spending time with them, whether playing outside or just sitting together, brings us closer and adds warmth to our home.

At the top of the tree are the fruits, representing the outcome of the love and care passed down from the roots and branches. This is where my siblings and I stand. I have two siblings, Jenielyn P. Cabaluna and Jerlane P. Cabaluna, and I am the middle child. While we all share the same upbringing, our personalities are quite different. My older sibling, Jerlane, is the responsible and practical one. He is naturally organized and prefers stability, always thinking ahead and making sure things are in order. However, despite being practical, Jerlane is also relaxed and easygoing. He has a great sense of humor and enjoys living life to the fullest, often making jokes and helping lighten the mood. My younger sibling, Jenielyn, is the playful and carefree one. She is more expressive and sometimes a bit stubborn, but her lively and spirited nature makes her fun to be around. I find myself somewhere in between—I enjoy exploring new things, but I also value responsibility. I’m not as carefree as Jenielyn, but I’m also not as serious as Jerlane. Despite our differences, we all value family time, enjoy helping each other when needed, and share a strong sense of loyalty.

As a middle child, I feel balanced. I have a strong desire to explore and try new things, just like a tree reaching toward the sunlight to grow. My dream is to become a certified RRT (Registered Radiologic Technologist) and work abroad, exploring new places and learning about different cultures. I’m a bit introverted, but it depends on the people I’m with. One thing I value most is being appreciated and cared for—something I got from my mother. I also love music; I play the piano, which helps me feel calm and peaceful. My dad used to play the guitar when he was younger—he joked that it was to impress girls, but I’m not sure if that’s true! Our family also loves the beach—the soft white sand, the clear blue water—and we always try to spend time there whenever we can. For me, the beach feels like the perfect place to relax and enjoy life. My family is my foundation and my source of strength. Just like the roots of a tree, they keep me grounded and give me the support I need to grow. Life may not always be easy, but knowing that my family is always there for me makes everything better. Despite our differences, the love, guidance, and laughter we share are what make our family tree strong and unbreakable. I am truly thankful for the gift of family, and I know that no matter where life takes me, I will always have them to lean on.

Five reasons why I chose to enroll in the BSRT program

I chose to enroll in this program because it fits my passions, curiosity, and dreams for the future. It’s not just a career for me. It’s something that truly excites and inspires me to grow and help others. I see it as a chance to do meaningful work while constantly learning new things.

First, I’ve always been interested in healthcare because it offers a stable job and many opportunities. But more than that, it’s knowing that I’ll be part of something bigger, where what I learn can help improve people’s lives and make a difference, even in small ways.

Second, I prefer a focused and specialized role. Unlike other healthcare jobs that require doing many things at once, this program allows me to concentrate on specific tasks. I like working on details and getting them right, which makes this role a perfect match for me. Having a structured and clear set of responsibilities suits how I work best.

Third, I’ve always been curious about medical machines and how they help doctors. Learning how to use advanced equipment and understanding what’s happening inside the human body feels like solving a real-life puzzle. I find it exciting to be part of this process and help in my own way by contributing behind the scenes.

Fourth, this program is practical and hands-on. I learn best by doing things rather than just reading about them. Every skill I gain will be something I can use in real life, and I can already imagine myself applying them in hospitals and clinics, working alongside other healthcare professionals.

Lastly, I’ve always been amazed by the human body especially bones and anatomy. Seeing X-rays feels like uncovering a hidden story that needs to be read. The thought that I can combine my love for learning with helping people makes me feel like I’m in the right place. Even the smallest action can change someone’s life, and I’m ready to be part of those moments, bringing care, comfort, and a little hope to every patient I meet.

Time Management as a Medical Student

    Managing time as a medical student is no easy task. It’s a constant balancing act of prioritizing responsibilities while keeping stress in check. Instead of cramming, I focus on what truly matters, dedicating extra time to the tougher subjects, especially as exams approach, and revisiting the easier ones during lighter weeks. My go-to study strategies include active recall, blurting answers to test myself, and the Feynman Technique, which helps me simplify complex concepts by explaining them in the easiest way possible. To stay organized and efficient, I rely on tools like Google Calendar and Evernote. These allow me to plan my days, organize study sessions, and track deadlines and long-term goals.

   Staying healthy is just as important as staying on of academics. I make it a priority to get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, whether it’s a run or walk, to keep my energy levels up and manage stress effectively. Weekends are my time to recharge. Sometimes that means a fun badminton match with friends, and other times, it’s as simple as exploring a new café or enjoying quiet moments. Sleep is non-negotiable I ensure I get 7–8 hours every night to avoid burnout and maintain focus. When things start to feel overwhelming, I break down big tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Celebrating small wins along the way, like treating myself to ice cream or indulging in something that brings me joy, keeps me motivated and helps me stay on track.

    One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of setting boundaries. Communicating with loved ones and carving out time for personal connections help me maintain balance in my life. My “why” is what keeps me motivated remembering that I chose this path to help others and make a meaningful difference in healthcare. Reflecting on that purpose gives me the drive to push through even the busiest days.

    To manage stress, I’ve found mindfulness to be an incredible tool. Practicing mindfulness helps me stay present, reflect on my progress, and maintain a positive outlook even when things get tough. Time management as a medical student is definitely a work in progress. However, with thoughtful planning, effective tools, and a commitment to self-care, I’ve been able to find a rhythm that allows me to thrive both academically and personally. Every day is a learning experience, and I’m growing more confident in my ability to balance this demanding yet rewarding journey.