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  • Major AAS, Medical Laboratory Technology BS, Biology with a minor in Chemistry
  • Work history Medical Lab Technician at St. Mary's Hospital

What do you do on a day-to-day basis?

As a Medical Lab Technician, I analyze blood and various body fluids for cellular and chemical composition; these labs provide information for patient diagnosis and treatment. I perform chemistry, hematology, coagulation, toxicology, immunology, microbiology and immunohematology testing. I work alongside other medical professionals to assure patient results are accurate, and completed in a timely fashion. Currently, I am working the night shift in which I also perform the necessary maintenance and quality control measures needed for various analyzers used in patient testing.

My experience at CMU prepared me for my career by allowing me to complete 40 hours a week of clinical experience for an entire semester. This opportunity allowed me to be immersed in a medical laboratory and put the theory learned in class, into practice. Also, the small class sizes of the MLT program allowed me to get one-on-one time with my instructors and develop close friendships with my classmates.

What was your transition like from being a student to your current career position?

My transition from student to professional Medical Laboratory Technician was smooth. I was fortunate enough to receive a job offer from the lab where I completed by clinical rotation while still at CMU. The combination of the hands-on experience at St. Mary’s Hospital and the MLT program at CMU successfully prepared me for my board examination. I contribute a large part of my success to the application of classroom knowledge to real-life scenarios that I experienced while working as a student at St. Mary’s. This is all due to the structure of the CMU program.

What do you think set you apart from the other applicants for your current position?

During my clinical rotations, I was able to meet and work alongside many laboratory professionals. This opportunity exposed my work ethic, as well as the specialized training I received at CMU which led to a job offer at the end of my program. I am not sure if things would have gone as smoothly if CMU did not have this partnership with the surrounding hospital laboratories. Learning how the laboratory operates as a student was definitely an advantage when starting my new position. 

What advice would you give incoming college students?

Prioritize your work, find a good place to study, seek help if you need it, don’t be afraid to go to office hours, allow yourself time to recharge, join clubs, start clubs, make many friends and enjoy your years at CMU!

Connect with Adriana on LinkedIn 

Published 2/6/2019

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