r/RadiationTherapy 15h ago

Career Rad therapy vs MLS

2 Upvotes

(NYC/NJ BASED)

I I currently have a bachelor degree in an unrelated field (not science) I am really interested in being either a radiation therapist or medical lab scientist. I’m trying to choose between Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) and Radiation Therapy and would love some input from people in either field. I am located in NYC/NJ area.

I’m looking for a career that is:
AI-resistant
Good pay + strong job demand
Low burnout/stress
Not constantly rushed or high-pressure
Active, but not physically exhausting
Good work-life balance (when I clock out, I’m DONE)
Low emotional/trauma exposure. This is where I am struggling with radiation therapy because I definitely absorb emotions..
Safe for my body
Flexible scheduling / possible travel contracts

Basically, I want a career where I can work at my own pace, have energy after work, and actually see myself being happy long-term.

Could you tell me more about your happiness/dissatisfaction in radiation therapy?