Before joining JVS SoCal’s ImagingWorks program, Teodora Chrystie built a creative career in production. After earning a master’s degree from USC School of Cinematic Arts, she worked in a selection of feature and short films. Most recently, she collaborated with nonprofits producing documentaries and digital content focused on wellness, and mental health, for streaming platforms.
While the work was fulfilling, it also came with uncertainty. Like many in creative fields, Teodora faced financial instability. Over time, her interactions with the medical professionals she filmed sparked a deeper interest in healthcare.
“The more I worked on health and wellness projects, the more I realized how important direct care and prevention are,” says Teodora, .
She began envisioning a new career path that offers stability, growth, and direct interaction with others. That’s when Teodora learned about ImagingWorks through a friend. The idea of a paid program offering hands-on clinical experience that doesn’t require years of costly schooling immediately stood out. She applied right away, hoping to explore roles in medical imaging including DEXA technologist and MRI Tech Aide.
The program exceeded her expectations.
“It was challenging, eye-opening, fascinating,” says Teodora. “I discovered so many new things.”
What made the experience truly transformative was the level of support. From instructors answering questions after hours to coordinators stepping in when issues arose, “The staff and teachers were absolutely amazing. Any time we had a question, they responded immediately,” shares Teodora.
After completing the 11-week program, Teodora achieved what once felt out of reach: a job offer. She accepted a permanent position at one of the clinical sites where she trained, officially launching her career in medical imaging. While she says it’s “too early” to fully measure the long-term impact, she already sees ImagingWorks as potentially life changing.
JVS SoCal didn’t just provide training: it offered financial stability, confidence, and a clear path forward through the Imaging Works program. For Teodora, it turned curiosity into opportunity and possibility into reality.
If you’re inspired by Teodora‘s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.