Traci Humphries

Diagnostic Medical Sonography

When she was laid off from her career after 29 years, Traci Humphries knew it was time for a career change. Years earlier, she had visited an Open House at Delaware Tech and knew there was a program to learn to become a diagnostic medical sonographer.

"My husband and I struggled with infertility and our children were conceived by IVF," Humphries said. "All of the ultrasounds that I had during this time always fascinated me.

"After being laid off, I realized that my children were getting ready to go off to college themselves, so it was the perfect time to make the change and pursue my dream of attending college and making a change for myself."

It wasn't an easy road into the program for Humphries. After avoiding algebra in high school, she had to pass multiple math classes, starting with pre-algebra, just to apply to the diagnostic medical sonography program. Once she was able to apply to the program, she missed getting accepted by 1/10 of a percent.

Humphries didn't want to get out of the routine she had gotten in. She was advised to pursue a second associate degree in science while she waited a year to reapply to the program.

"My husband was supporting our family while our twin sons and I were all in college at the same time," Humphries said. "Never having attended college, it was a challenge learning how to balance the demands of being a wife, mother, and student all at the same time. It wasn't easy; my kids have told me more than once that I am addicted to studying."

As graduation comes closer, Humphries hopes to begin working at a local hospital in order to give back to her community. Once she begins working, it will also allow her husband to retire if he chooses.

"I have pushed myself, challenged myself, and proven to myself that I can do what I set my mind to," Humphries said. "I became a first-time college student at the age of 50 and I am proud to say that I have a 3.77 GPA. I am so proud of myself for what I have accomplished during my five years of education here at Delaware Tech!"