If you’re considering enrolling in a surgical tech school to kickstart your career in the medical field, you may find yourself asking: “Is surgical tech school hard?” The reality is that it’s not necessarily the education itself that poses the challenge; it’s how these programs are structured that can create obstacles for aspiring surgical techs. This article explores the key difficulties students face when attending surgical tech school and introduces an innovative solution that may make the path smoother for many.
Understanding the Challenges of Traditional Surgical Tech Programs
1. Long Course Duration
One of the most significant hurdles for students in traditional surgical tech schools is the length of the program. Completing a typical surgical tech course can take up to two years. This timeline can feel overwhelming, especially for adults who have already established careers or have family responsibilities.
For busy adults, two years is not a short period. Unlike traditional college students who may have the flexibility to focus solely on their studies, many aspiring surgical techs are juggling jobs, parenting, or other major commitments. Enrolling in a long-term program often means putting personal and professional aspects of life on hold, which may not be feasible for everyone.
Moreover, traditional programs often require students to take electives and courses that are not directly related to surgical technology. These additional subjects can feel like unnecessary obstacles when your primary goal is to build expertise and start your career as soon as possible.
2. Financial Burden
The financial aspect of surgical tech school is another major challenge. A full-time program can cost as much as $50,000. For many adults, this is a significant financial commitment, especially when added to existing responsibilities like housing costs, car payments, and other living expenses. To afford this price tag, many students rely on student loans, which can lead to starting their careers under the shadow of substantial debt.
Starting a career burdened with debt is akin to running a race with weights strapped to your ankles—it’s not an ideal way to begin. Most adults don’t want to compromise their financial security or face years of loan repayment just to enter a new field.
3. Scheduled Classes
The structured schedules of traditional surgical tech programs can also present difficulties. Students often have to attend classes on campus multiple times a week. For those balancing a job, family, or both, this setup can lead to burnout. The stress of trying to meet these commitments while maintaining a semblance of balance in life can be immense.
Additionally, if a student falls sick or has an emergency that causes them to miss classes, it can be challenging to catch up. In many cases, falling behind means waiting months to retake the necessary courses, further delaying the completion of the program.
The Impact of These Challenges
The issues of long course durations, financial burdens, and demanding schedules are not just minor inconveniences—they are major roadblocks. They contribute to why many individuals find surgical tech school to be harder than expected. These challenges often make it difficult for students to stay motivated, keep up with coursework, and complete their programs on time.
What’s the Solution? A New Approach to Surgical Tech Education
Given these obstacles, many prospective surgical techs may wonder if there is a better way to receive their education. The answer is yes. Imagine a surgical tech program designed with busy adults in mind—a course that respects their time, budget, and need for flexibility. Such an approach would include:
1. Online Education
Picture being able to learn from the comfort of your own home, on your schedule. No more rushing to campus or missing important family moments. Online surgical technologist education allows students to work at their own pace and integrate learning into their existing schedules. This flexibility can significantly reduce stress and help students maintain balance in their personal and professional lives.
2. Faster Course Completion
What if you could complete a focused surgical tech training program in just a few months, without unnecessary electives or unrelated coursework? A program designed this way would allow students to gain the essential knowledge they need quickly and efficiently. This would be especially beneficial for adults looking to make a career change without spending years in school.
3. Hands-On Experience
While online learning is convenient, hands-on clinical experience is essential for surgical techs. An ideal program would include opportunities for internships or externships at healthcare facilities. This real-world training ensures that students are well-prepared for the practical aspects of the job.
4. Certification Preparation
A key requirement for becoming a surgical tech is obtaining certification. The right training program should thoroughly prepare students for their certification exams, ensuring that they can confidently take the next step in their careers.
Introducing the Preppy Approach: A Revolutionary Pathway
Now, here’s the exciting news—such a surgical tech program already exists. Enter the Preppy Approach, a game-changing option for aspiring surgical techs. Here’s what sets it apart:
1. 100% Online Training
With the Preppy Approach, your training is fully online, which means you can learn from wherever you are. This flexibility allows you to create a study schedule that fits into your life, not the other way around.
2. Self-Paced Learning
The Preppy Approach lets you work at your own speed. If you’re eager to finish quickly, you can accelerate your studies. If you need to take your time, that’s possible too. This self-paced model respects your personal and professional obligations and helps prevent burnout.
3. Complete Your Training in as Little as Four Months
Unlike traditional programs that can stretch on for years, the Preppy Approach allows you to complete your training in as little as four months. This expedited timeline helps you enter the workforce faster and start earning sooner.
4. Accredited University Certificate
Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate for your surgical tech training from an accredited nonprofit university. This certification is recognized and respected in the field, giving you the credentials you need to pursue job opportunities.
5. Hands-On Clinical Experience
The Preppy Approach doesn’t just stop at online education—it also includes an externship placement at a local healthcare facility. This hands-on experience is invaluable for learning the practical skills you’ll need on the job.
6. Affordable Pricing
One of the most appealing aspects of the Preppy Approach is its affordability. The entire program costs less than $2,000, a fraction of what traditional programs charge. This means you can complete your training without incurring massive debt.
Conclusion: Is Surgical Tech School Hard?
Surgical tech school can be challenging, but the difficulties often stem from outdated program structures that don’t align with the needs of modern adults. The Preppy Approach offers a practical, efficient, and affordable alternative that makes it easier for busy individuals to achieve their career goals.
This innovative pathway includes online, self-paced learning, a shorter completion timeline, real-world clinical experience, and a certification that opens doors—all at an affordable price. For those looking to break into the field of surgical technology without sacrificing years of their lives or taking on significant debt, the Preppy Approach may be the perfect solution.
Also read: Get Surgical Tech Certification Online – Try This Approach!
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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