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How can I be a successful medical laboratory scientist?

I'm a junior in high school who wants to pursue a career in medical lab sciences. Maybe in diagnostics or research? My favorite classes so far were AP Psychology, Biology, Anatomy, and Chemistry.

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Thank you comment icon That's fantastic! It's good you are thinking this. It will keep you from taking unnecessary courses. Goergia Southern in Savannah has a really good program. You could call up there and ask them for the best advice. They are very nice and helpful. Rebecca Jordan
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Iris’s Answer

Continue your education, take advantage of the scholarship programs. Stay motivated and never give up. Stay focused. Have fun but keep in mind where you're going and why you pursued that career. Do not lose focus on that or yourself. Learn how to say "No", to your friends and family to study. Reward yourself with family and friend time after you complete your studies. Time management is very important. You can have a life, go to school and work. I work 2 jobs, attend online college and I have 4 kids. Good luck.

Iris recommends the following next steps:

Stay in school "Science and technology "
Time management
Organization
Focus
Have fun
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Divi
Thank you comment icon You're very welcome Iris Aguillon
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LaTausha’s Answer

Look at schools that have a Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science program. Within that curriculum, you should have lab research and medical ethics classes so you get a feel for that if you want to pursue research.
The 4yr degree is a working degree. You will have a job upon graduation. However, If you want to stay on a diagnostic laboratory academic path after 4yr bachelor's, look into either masters programs for Pathology Assistants or med school for Pathology.
Medical Lab Science is a great career that has just recently started offering Doctoral degrees in Clinical lab science (DCLS).
It's also a great foundation for medical degrees, nursing, and other health careers.
Most employers require you to be nationally certified by ASCP and your school will prepare you for that. And depending on the state, license is required.
This is a worthwhile profession that is very versatile.
Good luck!
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice. Divi
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Aimee’s Answer

For diagnostic medical laboratories you'd be looking at medical laboratory science. You will be using chemistry and biology every day! Anatomy and physiology are also necessities for any medical field.

There are a few routes to take.
There are programs for medical laboratory scientist/medical technologist which would be a 4 year bachelor's. It's split into 3 year undergrad college and 1 year of clinical rotations and theory.

There's also medical laboratory technician which is a 2 year associate's degree.

Check online for which schools might have these programs. You can also check for openings with local hospitals to work in phlebotomy (drawing blood) or even as a lab assistant (processing samples) to get a feel for the lab and make money while you're in school. Some hospitals might offer tuition reimbursement or other benefits.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Divi
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Kaori’s Answer

Hi Divi,

The best way to become successful is to be in the environment of interest!

A lot of jobs for laboratory assistant require only high school degree and gives you the opportunity to enter the lab life and see if you really like it.

Our assistants take their classes in their free time which requires a lot of time management and responsibility but it also shows how much you want to join this field making you a great candidate for the CLS school program.

Kaori recommends the following next steps:

Find a job as a laboratory assistant
Be open to feedback and take notes in training
When in doubt, Ask questions and follow the rules in the lab
Complete your classes requirements
Apply for a CLS program
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Jennifer’s Answer

Only you can define what success means to you. Are you a constant learner, take chances and like challenges or like to stay in a comfort zone and have security? No one decision is right, and no one should force you to decide. If you have the opportunity right now look into- becoming a phlebotomist and feel out how you like this part of it. There are programs in high schools/for high schoolers (DUAL ENROLLMENT) and once you graduate. This certification will also give you the opportunity to work in an around the lab as you pursue your degree. See what you like and don't like. We have processing techs in our hospital lab with high school diplomas that work in the afternoons and evenings while they are in school. That is the next step - processing specimens, setting up cultures, getting experience working with healthcare providers. These are great opportunities to learn what you like, what you are willing to do and what you really want to avoid in this career field. If you like animals, try working in a vet clinic. You may have to start out walking dogs and scrubbing kennels, but we do a lot of cleaning in the lab every day, it's just part of the job. Next step is deciding 2- or 4-year degree. Lots of factors play a part in this. I encourage people to start at 2 yr./community college program, but that is based on my life. Again, do not let anyone tell you what right looks like for you.
I think you are on the right path with the classes you have taken so far. Check with your guidance counselor about dual enrollment vs AP.
Some schools have a preference or view them differently. Look at a couple of schools with MLT and MLS programs and do your research.
You don't have to decide a school now just know what the school is looking for on your HS transcript. It really doesn't matter where you get your degree as long as the program is accredited. Continue to challenge yourself but don't get discouraged along the way. There will be some classes that you just don't get the material (Organic Chemistry was my weakness). Don't give up, use tutoring resources and tools that are available.
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Mary’s Answer

Pursuing a career in medical laboratory sciences is an exciting and rewarding path, and I'm thrilled to hear about your interest in diagnostics and research. Your favorite classes, like AP Psychology, Biology, Anatomy, and Chemistry, have provided you with a strong foundation for this field. To become a successful medical laboratory scientist, focus on obtaining a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field from an accredited program. Throughout your high school and college journey, maintain a strong academic record, seek out opportunities for hands-on experience in laboratory settings, and consider participating in research projects. These experiences will not only enhance your knowledge and technical skills but also open doors for networking and professional development. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in the field for advice and guidance. Remember, your passion and dedication will pave the way for a fulfilling career in medical laboratory sciences.
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