im currently a medtech student in second year and im so overwhelmed 😭😭 im scared im not good or smart enough, but im watching videos like these to motivate myself and change my mentality
Don’t worry, it’s a journey! It’s easier said than done but just take it one semester at a time. I went through a similar period of adjusting my mindset. I rephrased all my negative thoughts to “I’m still learning and there will always be opportunities for growth”. That helped me tremendously, even now!
I’m very impressed that you figured these things out only 2 years in. I’ve been in the field for 24 years and some of these things I didn’t figure out for several years. I am happy to see someone so passionate about this field that you provide these videos as a resource and to encourage others in or considering it. Thank you for sharing!
I’m 2 months into an accelerated associates program at PIMA in Colorado Springs. I am barely getting the taste of the lab and what it’s like. The amount of information that is brand new to me is somewhat terrifying. IT IS FAST. 💨 the first two courses were Medical terminology and Bio of course. Easy high school level course with additional information. Now currently over half way through math for medical specialties and intro to lab 101. Very interesting stuff. It’s just cram cram cram. I’m going through your channel to find any studying tips and resources that you may have. In high school I couldn’t even get my homework in on time. 😂 I’m fully committed to learning and living this profession. It’s very daunting but your channel gives me the confidence to perform. That’s for-sure. EDIT: THANK YOU 🙏
Such an exciting time for you! Good luck as you progress through school. They do give ALOT of information in a short amount of time. But, once you figure out your study strategies, it should get a little easier to manage over time. Thanks for sharing!
Ive worked in the lab since 2014 worked in micro for 4 years then in main lab for 5...I worked nights in micro and it definitely took a toll on my health. I work 3 days a week now 12 hours shifts and it so much better. We have 7 on 7 off also but i feel like thats too long for me. I feel you on the foot pain I was wearing there really flat shoes for awhile in the lab and I started feeling the inflammation fr. Its nice to watch videos from other lab professionals cause I know others can relate. :) Also Happy Lab Week! :)
Thank you for sharing your journey! Happy lab week! I'm glad you were able to get a better schedule. I actually just went from 12 hr shifts to 8hr shifts. 12s would be perfect if I could work my 3 days in a row. Sometimes I think the better compromise is 10 hrs, but it's not offered in my area. I'm not sure if I could do the 7 on 7 off either, that's too many days lol. I still haven't found a good shoe! I have just been using cushion insoles
Currently on clinical chem rotation. And the tech training me kept having major troubleshooting issues….QC kept failing….the probe somehow got bent and had to replace it….so start the whole process over again. By the time we went for lunch the issue was still there. Thankfully the lab has more than one analyzer for chem labs. But jeezus it’s so annoying and can’t imagine that happening during peak time with only one analyzer for sample testing. It’s crazy!!
Sounds like a regular day in chemistry 🤣 (just kidding). Thanks for sharing! It’s kinda good that you are getting a chance to see the good and bad days during your rotation. Sometimes it’s simple things you can resolve quickly - while other times, the problems will persist the entire shift and maybe longer. The worst I’ve seen in chemistry was that the water system went down. The chem analyzers couldn’t function, so we couldn’t run any analytes.
I WORKED IN THE CLINICAL LAB, FOR 37 YRS, I, WE WORKED SO HARD, YOU DEFINITELY HAVE TO HAVE A ANALYTICAL MIND WHEN IT COMES TO TROUBLE SHOOTING AN ANALYSER , WE WERE ALWAYS SHORT OF STAFF, HAVING TO RUN HEMO BY YOURSELF ON A WEEKEND IS NO JOKE, BUT I'M RETIRED NOW, I MISS MICROSCOPIC WORK IDENTIFYING CELLS, VERY PROUD OF THE WORK I DID , I HAD TO DEAL WITH RACISM BECAUSE IT WAS VERY FEW BLACK PEOPLE IN THE LAB BUT THEY GOT USE TO US , WE ALL WERE DEDICATED TO GOOD PATIENT CARE, THEY ARE MAKING REAL GOOD MONEY NOW, I LEFT MAKING OVER 70,000 I WORKED FOR THE GOVERNMENT THEY GOT A REAL GOOD INCREASE AFTER I LEFT, ONE THING I COULD NEVER GET USE TO IS WORKING WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS, GOOD LUCK NEW TECHS AND GOD BLESS. REMEMBER TO ERROR IS TO HUMAN TO HUMAN IS TO ERROR, IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN, IT'S NOT EASY TO BE FAST AND ACCURATE, JUST DO YOUR BEST, JUST DON'T MAKE TO MANY IT WILL CAUSE YOU YOUR JOB, BUT YOU NEVER GET THE CREDIT WE DESERVE , LABORATORY RESULTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF PATIENTS AT LESS 80 PERCENT COMES FROM LAB RESULTS, YOU ARE A VITAL PART OF CRITICAL CARE, STAND TALL,
I’m a new grad and I passed my ASCP and have now been training to be a tech for about a month now. Right now, I feel so stressed and overwhelmed and feel like I ask too many questions lol. Thankfully I’ve had nice coworkers who have been nice enough to help me. I’m hoping things get better and that I’ll gain more confidence and knowledge as time goes on.
your videos are helping me so much!! i have an interview tomorrow for this job & was super nervous before watching your videos now i have major confidence i will do well so thank you! ❤
@@domilarae i know & i want to thank you for your videos bc they helped me to gain an extreme amount of knowledge.. i will continue to watch your journey during my journey thanks again love ❤️
i just switch from prepharmacy into MLS and this video was really cool to see 🥰 i have two and a half years left and im 23 but this is the career i’ve been looking for! thank you for your input!!!
I'm a new grad that finally finished training a couple months ago and moved to nights. I work with a shift full of awesome, very experienced techs. Like, some have been techs longer than I've been alive. Clearly, I'm not going to be as efficient, knowledgeable, confident, etc. as any of them and I constantly have to remind myself of that when my department is backed up or I keep having to ask a million questions. It's ok! There's no other way it can be right now and eventually I will keep up and have to ask less questions. The worst is when I leave a pile of diffs for the morning person because I just couldnt get to them. It still takes me probably 10 minutes to do a diff with morphology and everything, so there is no way I'm going to get through those 12 diffs in the middle of morning run if I have to find 2 hours of time! The morning person usually has them all done by the time our 30 minute overlap is done. It's annoying to them, but not really that much of an inconvenience. I'll get there, but I'm not there yet and it would be a miracle if I somehow already was. I have to give myself a lot of pep talks. 😂
It’s great that you have an awesome team to work with, I’m sure you’ll learn a lot while working with them! Keep the pep talks coming! You’ll build speed eventually, but accuracy is more important than anything. I used to feel the same way if I had to leave work. I felt so bad that I would stay over and finish my diffs so day shift didn’t complain 🤣. Eventually, my night shift coworkers had me come up with a cut off point so that I had enough time to wrap up my work for shift change.
I’m really young but I already know I want this job but it’s also late at night and I can’t rush time. I want to be in a lab with a degree and everything I want a good life for my older self so that’s why I’m trying to learn as much as I can about science and medication. So I found your channel and wrote this comment (even though I think we are in different countries) i believe you will help me.
This video made me realize again how the next few years of my life will be the most challenging period ever. I'm an American Expat living in Denmark (due to my Danish husband) and preparing to go back to school to study Medical Laboratory Science, which here we call Bioanalytiker. The entire education is in Danish and the work language is Danish so trying to learn the language AND go through the education at the same time will be the hardest thing I've ever done. Thanks for the book recommendation on one of my previous comments. I'm trying to get an understanding in English before I start so at least I'm familiar with the material in my own language first. Pray for me girl!
That’s amazing! You have such a unique journey to learn the profession while learning a language. I’m not sure how much the education differs between US and Denmark, but I’m really interested to hear about your journey as you progress through school. Thanks for sharing!
So happy to see another video from you! I got stressed out when you talked about that overnight BB/micro experience lol. As someone who also hates to ask for help due to fear of burdening others I can relate. You’d rather drown yourself than ask for help. I loved this video though, especially since I’m starting clinicals later this year. I’ve heard people describe it as the best and worst time of your life. How would you describe it?
It’s great to hear from you! Clinicals is the best time, it’s so exciting. You get to see the real world knowledge click with the info you learned in class. Clinicals was where it “all made sense” to me. I can see it being described as the worst because it puts you that much closer to graduating and the national exam, so it can be a stressful time. The natural hair journey is real! Do you still plan to get locs in the future?
@@domilarae yesss, that’s what I’m excited for - the whole hands-on experience. Bc school is great and all, but nothing compares to being in the moment and seeing how everything is actually done. Random question as I can’t recall - did you work during your clinicals, and would you recommend it? And honestly, with how slow my hair grows I might have to enter a protective style era first lol.
@pipcheerio4054 Im excited for you! I hope you have a great clinical experience. I worked part time but my hours were very flexible. One of my classmates worked as a lab assistant part time too. It can count as work experience!
I have 70k in financial aid paying down and I want to do this so badly I’m currently a level 2 phlebotomist prior MA and NA wanted to be an RN steered away… with 6 kids I’m so discouraged but want to be a MLS so badly I know I’d be great idk what to do “super introvert” I’m ok with coworkers but patients I’d like to mostly steer clear as much as possible 😊
Thats awesome that youre taking the time to explore your options. Are you in a hospital? Maybe reach out to leadership for a day to shadow the lab techs and see if the environment is right for you.
Hello! wanted to know how schooling was? I may be starting a CLS program in NYC this September if my interview goes well. I never knew it was a whole career! I worked as an MA and just thought it was automatically run by a lot of machines haha I always thought myself as introvert and thought it would be a better fit job for me with my science background. Was schooling difficult? How would you say your self care was in school? Because I hear a lot of people work full-time or part time during school which i find awesome. I am currently in a physician assistant program and making the switch and at my program we are not allowed to work at all! I cannot imagine myself working either since the classes take up all our time
Have you considered pathologist assistant? I’m just wondering why you are leaving your PA program to pursue MLS. The lab equivalent would be Pathologist Assistant, it’s also a Master level degree program.
@@domilarae Just realized that the profession was not for me. I was also pretty much forced by family to go this route. I have heard of pathologist assistant! But I also do want to get done with school a little faster due to personal reasons.
The job hunting is fine, there seems to be plenty of choices especially if you plan to work evening or night shift. I had my first job about 2 months before graduating.
I have a bachelor's degree in biology and I'm currently working in a lab. I've been there 3years and now im thinking about becoming an MT.. I don't know where to start so that I begin my journey.. about how long would it take to complete the program though?
There’s some post-bacc programs that are anywhere between 1-2 years. The NAACLS website has a big list of all the accredited programs by state so you can see what’s in your area
There is an alternative pathway for certification. I only have my Biology degree and lab experience, and I was eligible to sit for the exam. Your job has to sign off that you have experience in each section. Please talk to your employer about blood bank hours so that you qualify without additional expensive education.
I started off as a specimen processor as I was told that I had to start in that area first. It was fine but then I started having trouble with management because she found out I had a bachelor's degree and she started blocking me from moving around because of my work ethic and she didn't want to lose me. I was finally able to move to the chemistry department as a lab assistant where I've been now for a year it'll be two in that area this June. I was told a lab specialist position would open up and I'd be the first considered. One opened for the very early morning hrs but it coincided with my son's school schedule being that his school doesn't open until 8am and doesn't have before care the shift was scheduled 7a-330p but they wanted me to be there at 6am
Many of the techs I've talked to said I would have to go back to school and get an mlt certified which I found to be crazy to go backwards to get an associates degree when I already have a bachelor's. I've just been so discouraged and frustrated because I'm knowing there's an alternative but don't know how to get there and everyone I ask seems salty that I'm even trying to not just be an underpaid lab assistant anymore
Hi Dominique! I work as a new grad nurse in the hospital and I am so burnt out that I want to switch into Lab Tech. I want to be away from direct patient care. Can you tell me how the job is like? What do you do in a shift? How are your breaks like?
You should try switching out of bedside before leaving nursing entirely. I have several videos on my channel, you may get an idea of what the job is like by watching them. Keep in mind, the laboratory can also be a high stress work environment that can lead to burnout - it's still a healthcare job lol
I'm interested in becoming a medical technologist. Do you have to do anything during or after schooling to start working? I hear a lot about rotations and such but idk what that means. Please be specific or maybe provide a few resources so I can maybe research about this. Thank you. Great video.
@@arbitrarylib clinical rotations are usually required depending on where you live. It’s like an internship where you go learn what it’s like to work in the lab
Hello, thank you so much for sharing your journey. I really appreciate it. I am currently enrolled in school to get my prerequisites done so I may be accepted into the medical laboratory technician program next year. In order to go to school, I switched my position to prep lab assistant to gain experience and free up some daytime for school. Today I experienced having to repeat a test because of my mistake. Luckily I caught it and was humble enough to admit it and fix it. I did feel really bad about it however after watching your video I feel a little better about it being part of the process. Thank you for sharing your experiences and being honest.
I would like to Loc my hair, did you face any backlash or have any issues when interviewing for Jobs because of your hair? Also what was your process like in studying for the ASCP exam and getting ready for job interviews ?
I wouldn’t worry too much about it. I think it’s becoming more common. I was worried going into my first lab, and I was surprised to see that all of my technical supervisors had locs during my interview 💕. I reviewed the course material during each clinical rotation, and began practicing mock exams (labce and ASCP BOC study guide book) every day until my exam date.
I also have locs and half the time in the lab they’re in a headwrap of some sort. I never thought twice about them and I don’t think my supervisors have either.
Hey dominique, I have a question for you. Do you think a person can succeed in this field even if they don’t have a passion for science? A little background on me, I graduated with a history degree in 2019 and spent years not knowing what I really wanted to do for a career. With the help of my therapist, I found out a job I might enjoy is being a medical laboratory technician, even if I didn’t have a passion for science. I started a program four weeks ago and it has been difficult, and I have started to wonder if not having a passion for science will ultimately make me unfit to work in this field. I would really appreciate hearing your thoughts on this.
I think it will just depend on your motivation to study enough to get through school. It doesn’t require passion, but you do have to understand the science to do the job.
Thank you so much for making this video because it’s kind of scary getting accepted and looking at the upcoming calendar not knowing what to expect! Literally 11 exams in August it says 🙃🙃🙃Yes my bachelor’s in bio gave a nice background for this program but I didn’t take immunology itself (expensive asf) and i took micro my freshman year sooooooo all the subjects it says on the calendar too just hoping i do okay 😂😂😂
That’s a good question, I spend the whole shift staring at screens haha. Maybe 80-90% of my work is in the computer to report results and in the screens of the analyzers to perform testing. The rest is the actual hands on work.
I love your videos! I am a former therapist who left the mental health profession and am now pursuing a degree in medical laboratory technology. I have zero field experience and I am just starting my biology courses. Do you have any advice for someone who doesn’t have any work experience in this field, so that I have a more successful outcome when looking for jobs as a new grad? Thank you 😊
Thanks for sharing your journey! There isn't really any required work experience outside of the clinical rotations, and that will come towards the end of the program. There are opportunities to work as a medical lab assistant, but it isn't required. I had no experience and was still able to find jobs right after school. I hope your classes are going great this semester!
It really depends on the facility. From my experience, it can vary between 1-8 people in a department at once in a given shift, but there is usually a lead or supervisor available for you to ask questions if needed.
I wish I would have known I don’t get to sit in my introvert bubble all day. Especially not on day shift. I make jokes about signing up for the medical aspect but not the tech part. 😂
Thankyou for your answer..and it's a pleasure to meet you 😍 I'm a undergraduate in a state university studying MLS degree in Sri Lanka ..but there is not enough government jobs due to economic crisis..
im a currently 1 semester away from graduating from undergrad wit a degree in psychology but have now realized (quite late i know :( ) that medical lab science was a career field that existed. im passionate about both the medical field and research/lab . Im currently completing an internship in a microbiology lab. Any advice on the possibility of pivoting careers?
Have you had the chance or do you plan to get research lab experience while in undergrad? In my opinion, there isn't that much overlap between medical lab and research lab work - so it would be helpful to get time in both labs to see which one you want to pursue
Hi thank you for your video i have my biology degree Was told i have to go to school one year for MLS program I am so tired of school my question is will lab hire you just with bio degree And is MLS program class hard ?
Hi. i wanted to know if you had any insight or tips for the interview process as a soon to be new grad. Im starting clinicals soon and thats all I keep thinking about(after graduating) lol
I would say apply earlier, like before graduating. I started my job applications about 3 months before graduating and secured a job, which took away a lot of my stress at the time of transitioning to the work force. Good luck! I have a video with tips for the interview process and another vlog for my actual new grad interview experience. Check them out in the playlists section of my channel if you get a chance!
hello dominique I hope you are fine. I have a few questions for you. So I am a student doing a bachelor degree in medical laboratory sciences in Africa. I'm about to engage soon in my third year; therefore, I am seeking possible opportunities to do an internship in a new area like where you are in order to learn new techniques and methods I would use in this field. Is it possible to come across these opportunities? Also, can we discuss it deeply, not in the comments?
Are you in a biotech city? There's more molecular/genetics type jobs in those areas from what I hear. Medical labs involve testing for hematology, blood bank, clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, immunology, urinalysis, and molecular diagnostics. Some states aren't strict, so maybe check job postings in your areas and see what they require for jobs
Thank you for sharing. I currently work as a lab tech and wanted to grow in the field. But I'm thinking with this degree I won't be able to continue working as a tech. I'm not sure if it helps.
Hi Dominique....i love your vedios and am verry much motivated .....am from a tiny kingdom in Africa called Swaziland and am doing my bachelor in Medical laboratory sciences .....i realy found it more challenging .....so can you plz help me understand that is it a profession that can help me change my situation at home coz we arnt that fortunate .
Yes I believe any healthcare profession is a good choice if you want to help people. I’m not sure what medical laboratory science is like in other countries. Maybe try to find local lab professionals where you live and speak with them about choosing this career.
Im just starting highschool and im looking into becoming a medical scientist and its really interested me but im worried i wont be good enough as one anyways do you have any advice
Just want to add that you will be taught all that you need to know while you go through school. It’s challenging, but very doable, especially if you develop strong study habits while in college
Hey dominique, I have been watching your videos for quite some time now. I am a senior in college, Clinical Laboratory Science major, graduating in May. Are we able to connect ? I need some guidance 😭
Im a senior in highschool planing to go to college and major in biology, then afterwards do a program to get certified to become an MLS, is this a good plan?
@@domilarae Yea I figured…. but the college I really wanted to attend dosent offer it, only biology or cellular biology, maybe I should switch then lol
@@samanthas3189as someone who went straight to college and got my bachelors in biology premed I advice you to definitely get your bs in medical lab science if you know you want to do that as a career. I’m currently back in school so I can get this certification and if I knew about it in the beginning I would’ve definitely went down this route so listen to her she knows what she’s talking about lol. Don’t go to school just for the name or the social life go to a school that will help you build your career.
@samanthas3189 if you want to go MLT/MLS I would go to that program specifically. Going bio into tech school will be both more expensive and more time consuming
im currently a medtech student in second year and im so overwhelmed 😭😭 im scared im not good or smart enough, but im watching videos like these to motivate myself and change my mentality
Don’t worry, it’s a journey! It’s easier said than done but just take it one semester at a time. I went through a similar period of adjusting my mindset. I rephrased all my negative thoughts to “I’m still learning and there will always be opportunities for growth”. That helped me tremendously, even now!
Bro, study! There’s nothing effort cannot overcome!
Ur not alone but as long as we believe in ourselves everything will be simple
Same here...I'm in my first year and away from home and I'm greatly overwhelmed and scared I'll fail😭
@@dineixeanne____4971 you are in your first yr, so nice let's connect
I’m very impressed that you figured these things out only 2 years in. I’ve been in the field for 24 years and some of these things I didn’t figure out for several years. I am happy to see someone so passionate about this field that you provide these videos as a resource and to encourage others in or considering it. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks, you are right. As an MLS, we interact with so many people. We don't get lonely!
I’m happy with the way you explained your experience and how you didn’t say it in a way where it scares people off from pursuing this career.
Right! The last thing I want to do is discourage anyone.
I’m 2 months into an accelerated associates program at PIMA in Colorado Springs. I am barely getting the taste of the lab and what it’s like. The amount of information that is brand new to me is somewhat terrifying. IT IS FAST. 💨 the first two courses were Medical terminology and Bio of course. Easy high school level course with additional information. Now currently over half way through math for medical specialties and intro to lab 101. Very interesting stuff. It’s just cram cram cram. I’m going through your channel to find any studying tips and resources that you may have. In high school I couldn’t even get my homework in on time. 😂 I’m fully committed to learning and living this profession. It’s very daunting but your channel gives me the confidence to perform. That’s for-sure.
EDIT: THANK YOU 🙏
Such an exciting time for you! Good luck as you progress through school. They do give ALOT of information in a short amount of time. But, once you figure out your study strategies, it should get a little easier to manage over time. Thanks for sharing!
Ive worked in the lab since 2014 worked in micro for 4 years then in main lab for 5...I worked nights in micro and it definitely took a toll on my health. I work 3 days a week now 12 hours shifts and it so much better. We have 7 on 7 off also but i feel like thats too long for me. I feel you on the foot pain I was wearing there really flat shoes for awhile in the lab and I started feeling the inflammation fr. Its nice to watch videos from other lab professionals cause I know others can relate. :) Also Happy Lab Week! :)
Thank you for sharing your journey! Happy lab week! I'm glad you were able to get a better schedule. I actually just went from 12 hr shifts to 8hr shifts. 12s would be perfect if I could work my 3 days in a row. Sometimes I think the better compromise is 10 hrs, but it's not offered in my area. I'm not sure if I could do the 7 on 7 off either, that's too many days lol. I still haven't found a good shoe! I have just been using cushion insoles
Currently on clinical chem rotation. And the tech training me kept having major troubleshooting issues….QC kept failing….the probe somehow got bent and had to replace it….so start the whole process over again. By the time we went for lunch the issue was still there. Thankfully the lab has more than one analyzer for chem labs. But jeezus it’s so annoying and can’t imagine that happening during peak time with only one analyzer for sample testing. It’s crazy!!
Sounds like a regular day in chemistry 🤣 (just kidding). Thanks for sharing! It’s kinda good that you are getting a chance to see the good and bad days during your rotation. Sometimes it’s simple things you can resolve quickly - while other times, the problems will persist the entire shift and maybe longer. The worst I’ve seen in chemistry was that the water system went down. The chem analyzers couldn’t function, so we couldn’t run any analytes.
I WORKED IN THE CLINICAL LAB, FOR 37 YRS, I, WE WORKED SO HARD, YOU DEFINITELY HAVE TO HAVE A ANALYTICAL MIND WHEN IT COMES TO TROUBLE SHOOTING AN ANALYSER , WE WERE ALWAYS SHORT OF STAFF, HAVING TO RUN HEMO BY YOURSELF ON A WEEKEND IS NO JOKE, BUT I'M RETIRED NOW, I MISS MICROSCOPIC WORK IDENTIFYING CELLS, VERY PROUD OF THE WORK I DID , I HAD TO DEAL WITH RACISM BECAUSE IT WAS VERY FEW BLACK PEOPLE IN THE LAB BUT THEY GOT USE TO US , WE ALL WERE DEDICATED TO GOOD PATIENT CARE, THEY ARE MAKING REAL GOOD MONEY NOW, I LEFT MAKING OVER 70,000 I WORKED FOR THE GOVERNMENT THEY GOT A REAL GOOD INCREASE AFTER I LEFT, ONE THING I COULD NEVER GET USE TO IS WORKING WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS, GOOD LUCK NEW TECHS AND GOD BLESS. REMEMBER TO ERROR IS TO HUMAN TO HUMAN IS TO ERROR, IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN, IT'S NOT EASY TO BE FAST AND ACCURATE, JUST DO YOUR BEST, JUST DON'T MAKE TO MANY IT WILL CAUSE YOU YOUR JOB, BUT YOU NEVER GET THE CREDIT WE DESERVE , LABORATORY RESULTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF PATIENTS AT LESS 80 PERCENT COMES FROM LAB RESULTS, YOU ARE A VITAL PART OF CRITICAL CARE, STAND TALL,
I’m a new grad and I passed my ASCP and have now been training to be a tech for about a month now. Right now, I feel so stressed and overwhelmed and feel like I ask too many questions lol. Thankfully I’ve had nice coworkers who have been nice enough to help me. I’m hoping things get better and that I’ll gain more confidence and knowledge as time goes on.
Congrats on getting certified! Hang in there, things will get better with time as you gain experience
your videos are helping me so much!! i have an interview tomorrow for this job & was super nervous before watching your videos now i have major confidence i will do well so thank you! ❤
I'm glad to hear that the videos were helpful. How did your interview go? 😊
@@domilarae I GOT THE JOBBB 😁😁😁😁😁
Congratulations!!!! That's so exciting!!
@@domilarae i know & i want to thank you for your videos bc they helped me to gain an extreme amount of knowledge.. i will continue to watch your journey during my journey thanks again love ❤️
i just switch from prepharmacy into MLS and this video was really cool to see 🥰 i have two and a half years left and im 23 but this is the career i’ve been looking for! thank you for your input!!!
@@cassidydubyk9116 good luck on your journey to the lab!
Dominique your videos are so helpful I’m very grateful I’m an MLt student and love this!!
Awee thanks! How is school going for you?
I'm a new grad that finally finished training a couple months ago and moved to nights. I work with a shift full of awesome, very experienced techs. Like, some have been techs longer than I've been alive. Clearly, I'm not going to be as efficient, knowledgeable, confident, etc. as any of them and I constantly have to remind myself of that when my department is backed up or I keep having to ask a million questions. It's ok! There's no other way it can be right now and eventually I will keep up and have to ask less questions. The worst is when I leave a pile of diffs for the morning person because I just couldnt get to them. It still takes me probably 10 minutes to do a diff with morphology and everything, so there is no way I'm going to get through those 12 diffs in the middle of morning run if I have to find 2 hours of time! The morning person usually has them all done by the time our 30 minute overlap is done. It's annoying to them, but not really that much of an inconvenience. I'll get there, but I'm not there yet and it would be a miracle if I somehow already was. I have to give myself a lot of pep talks. 😂
It’s great that you have an awesome team to work with, I’m sure you’ll learn a lot while working with them! Keep the pep talks coming! You’ll build speed eventually, but accuracy is more important than anything. I used to feel the same way if I had to leave work. I felt so bad that I would stay over and finish my diffs so day shift didn’t complain 🤣. Eventually, my night shift coworkers had me come up with a cut off point so that I had enough time to wrap up my work for shift change.
@@domilarae I like the idea of a cut off point. I'll have to ponder that. Thanks!
Just passed my MLS (ASCP)! Thanks for the motivation!
Yay!! Congratulations!!!
@@domilarae Thank you
Happy to learn more from you about this course. I wish I could witness it all
Thanks for supporting my channel! Are there any specific videos you'd like to see or questions you'd like me to answer?
.I wish there were more opportunities going forward for med techs, like there are for nurses.
I’m really young but I already know I want this job but it’s also late at night and I can’t rush time. I want to be in a lab with a degree and everything I want a good life for my older self so that’s why I’m trying to learn as much as I can about science and medication. So I found your channel and wrote this comment (even though I think we are in different countries) i believe you will help me.
Thanks for sharing! If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
thanks for your informed information
This video is 100% helpful for I’m starting over at the age of 27 and deciding apply for this exact job
Thanks for sharing! Good luck on your journey, it’s a great field with opportunities to find specialties and areas of interest.
This was extremely helpful! Thank you so much for sharing your journey 🎉
So glad you found it helpful!
I am a final year med lab science student, I cant wait to be a med lab scientist.
Good luck on your journey!
This video made me realize again how the next few years of my life will be the most challenging period ever. I'm an American Expat living in Denmark (due to my Danish husband) and preparing to go back to school to study Medical Laboratory Science, which here we call Bioanalytiker. The entire education is in Danish and the work language is Danish so trying to learn the language AND go through the education at the same time will be the hardest thing I've ever done. Thanks for the book recommendation on one of my previous comments. I'm trying to get an understanding in English before I start so at least I'm familiar with the material in my own language first. Pray for me girl!
That’s amazing! You have such a unique journey to learn the profession while learning a language. I’m not sure how much the education differs between US and Denmark, but I’m really interested to hear about your journey as you progress through school. Thanks for sharing!
So happy to see another video from you! I got stressed out when you talked about that overnight BB/micro experience lol. As someone who also hates to ask for help due to fear of burdening others I can relate. You’d rather drown yourself than ask for help. I loved this video though, especially since I’m starting clinicals later this year. I’ve heard people describe it as the best and worst time of your life. How would you describe it?
Your locs look amazing btw! It’s so awesome to see your growth. Rn I’m bald-headed bc I chose to relax my hair. Never again, haha
It’s great to hear from you! Clinicals is the best time, it’s so exciting. You get to see the real world knowledge click with the info you learned in class. Clinicals was where it “all made sense” to me. I can see it being described as the worst because it puts you that much closer to graduating and the national exam, so it can be a stressful time. The natural hair journey is real! Do you still plan to get locs in the future?
@@domilarae yesss, that’s what I’m excited for - the whole hands-on experience. Bc school is great and all, but nothing compares to being in the moment and seeing how everything is actually done. Random question as I can’t recall - did you work during your clinicals, and would you recommend it? And honestly, with how slow my hair grows I might have to enter a protective style era first lol.
@pipcheerio4054 Im excited for you! I hope you have a great clinical experience. I worked part time but my hours were very flexible. One of my classmates worked as a lab assistant part time too. It can count as work experience!
I have 70k in financial aid paying down and I want to do this so badly I’m currently a level 2 phlebotomist prior MA and NA wanted to be an RN steered away… with 6 kids I’m so discouraged but want to be a MLS so badly I know I’d be great
idk what to do “super introvert” I’m ok with coworkers but patients I’d like to mostly steer clear as much as possible 😊
Thats awesome that youre taking the time to explore your options. Are you in a hospital? Maybe reach out to leadership for a day to shadow the lab techs and see if the environment is right for you.
@@domilarae thank you
i’m studying mls right now and i love it so far! i’m just scared that i’m going to mess up and give someone wrong results 😣😣
Im glad you're enjoying your studies! It's okay, that is a normal feeling to have. You will gain confidence over time ☺️
Keep up your cheerie spirit
Hello! wanted to know how schooling was? I may be starting a CLS program in NYC this September if my interview goes well. I never knew it was a whole career! I worked as an MA and just thought it was automatically run by a lot of machines haha I always thought myself as introvert and thought it would be a better fit job for me with my science background. Was schooling difficult? How would you say your self care was in school? Because I hear a lot of people work full-time or part time during school which i find awesome. I am currently in a physician assistant program and making the switch and at my program we are not allowed to work at all! I cannot imagine myself working either since the classes take up all our time
also I am well aware of the communication aspect of the job since any job in healthcare requires it. We are dealing with patients and providers!
Have you considered pathologist assistant? I’m just wondering why you are leaving your PA program to pursue MLS. The lab equivalent would be Pathologist Assistant, it’s also a Master level degree program.
@@domilarae Just realized that the profession was not for me. I was also pretty much forced by family to go this route. I have heard of pathologist assistant! But I also do want to get done with school a little faster due to personal reasons.
How is the job hunting? Are there enough openings? And how long did it take to find your first job?
The job hunting is fine, there seems to be plenty of choices especially if you plan to work evening or night shift. I had my first job about 2 months before graduating.
I have a bachelor's degree in biology and I'm currently working in a lab. I've been there 3years and now im thinking about becoming an MT.. I don't know where to start so that I begin my journey.. about how long would it take to complete the program though?
There’s some post-bacc programs that are anywhere between 1-2 years. The NAACLS website has a big list of all the accredited programs by state so you can see what’s in your area
What kind of lab work do you do?
There is an alternative pathway for certification. I only have my Biology degree and lab experience, and I was eligible to sit for the exam. Your job has to sign off that you have experience in each section. Please talk to your employer about blood bank hours so that you qualify without additional expensive education.
I started off as a specimen processor as I was told that I had to start in that area first. It was fine but then I started having trouble with management because she found out I had a bachelor's degree and she started blocking me from moving around because of my work ethic and she didn't want to lose me. I was finally able to move to the chemistry department as a lab assistant where I've been now for a year it'll be two in that area this June. I was told a lab specialist position would open up and I'd be the first considered. One opened for the very early morning hrs but it coincided with my son's school schedule being that his school doesn't open until 8am and doesn't have before care the shift was scheduled 7a-330p but they wanted me to be there at 6am
Many of the techs I've talked to said I would have to go back to school and get an mlt certified which I found to be crazy to go backwards to get an associates degree when I already have a bachelor's. I've just been so discouraged and frustrated because I'm knowing there's an alternative but don't know how to get there and everyone I ask seems salty that I'm even trying to not just be an underpaid lab assistant anymore
Hi Dominique! I work as a new grad nurse in the hospital and I am so burnt out that I want to switch into Lab Tech. I want to be away from direct patient care. Can you tell me how the job is like? What do you do in a shift? How are your breaks like?
You should try switching out of bedside before leaving nursing entirely. I have several videos on my channel, you may get an idea of what the job is like by watching them. Keep in mind, the laboratory can also be a high stress work environment that can lead to burnout - it's still a healthcare job lol
Thanks!
@Dominique I'm a lab tech assistant and I've made a couple.mistakes well. What advice do you have for me? I'm tired of the errors
What happened?
I'm interested in becoming a medical technologist. Do you have to do anything during or after schooling to start working? I hear a lot about rotations and such but idk what that means. Please be specific or maybe provide a few resources so I can maybe research about this. Thank you. Great video.
@@arbitrarylib clinical rotations are usually required depending on where you live. It’s like an internship where you go learn what it’s like to work in the lab
What are some lessons/tips you’ve learned along the way during your journey in the lab? 🔬
Hello, thank you so much for sharing your journey. I really appreciate it. I am currently enrolled in school to get my prerequisites done so I may be accepted into the medical laboratory technician program next year. In order to go to school, I switched my position to prep lab assistant to gain experience and free up some daytime for school. Today I experienced having to repeat a test because of my mistake. Luckily I caught it and was humble enough to admit it and fix it. I did feel really bad about it however after watching your video I feel a little better about it being part of the process. Thank you for sharing your experiences and being honest.
I would like to Loc my hair, did you face any backlash or have any issues when interviewing for Jobs because of your hair? Also what was your process like in studying for the ASCP exam and getting ready for job interviews ?
I wouldn’t worry too much about it. I think it’s becoming more common. I was worried going into my first lab, and I was surprised to see that all of my technical supervisors had locs during my interview 💕. I reviewed the course material during each clinical rotation, and began practicing mock exams (labce and ASCP BOC study guide book) every day until my exam date.
I also have locs and half the time in the lab they’re in a headwrap of some sort. I never thought twice about them and I don’t think my supervisors have either.
very informative
Hey dominique, I have a question for you. Do you think a person can succeed in this field even if they don’t have a passion for science?
A little background on me, I graduated with a history degree in 2019 and spent years not knowing what I really wanted to do for a career. With the help of my therapist, I found out a job I might enjoy is being a medical laboratory technician, even if I didn’t have a passion for science. I started a program four weeks ago and it has been difficult, and I have started to wonder if not having a passion for science will ultimately make me unfit to work in this field.
I would really appreciate hearing your thoughts on this.
I think it will just depend on your motivation to study enough to get through school. It doesn’t require passion, but you do have to understand the science to do the job.
@@domilarae thank you
Thank you so much for making this video because it’s kind of scary getting accepted and looking at the upcoming calendar not knowing what to expect! Literally 11 exams in August it says 🙃🙃🙃Yes my bachelor’s in bio gave a nice background for this program but I didn’t take immunology itself (expensive asf) and i took micro my freshman year sooooooo all the subjects it says on the calendar too just hoping i do okay 😂😂😂
Glad to know it’s worth it and it’ll get easier. Cuz I’m already a little intimidated and an hour commute woohoo
You’ll do great!! I did the same major in undergrad and it prepared me well to at least know how to study for all the information
Thanks this was helpful. What percentage of your time would you say is "screen work" e.g. report writing versus other tasks e.g lab work. THank you
That’s a good question, I spend the whole shift staring at screens haha. Maybe 80-90% of my work is in the computer to report results and in the screens of the analyzers to perform testing. The rest is the actual hands on work.
I love your videos! I am a former therapist who left the mental health profession and am now pursuing a degree in medical laboratory technology. I have zero field experience and I am just starting my biology courses. Do you have any advice for someone who doesn’t have any work experience in this field, so that I have a more successful outcome when looking for jobs as a new grad? Thank you 😊
Thanks for sharing your journey! There isn't really any required work experience outside of the clinical rotations, and that will come towards the end of the program. There are opportunities to work as a medical lab assistant, but it isn't required. I had no experience and was still able to find jobs right after school. I hope your classes are going great this semester!
@@domilarae Thank you for your input and guidance!
hi !! im going to uni very soon and im a still bit confused about career stuff 😭 do i major in microbiology or medlab to become a labtech?
Medlab if you want to work in a healthcare lab to test patient samples. Micro if you want to work in a research lab.
Hi. I am preparing for ASCPi Certification, i wish i would work in U.S.
@@medicaltechnologist21 good luck on your exam!
How many MLS’s are there in a lab at once? Is it just you? I feel like I wouldn’t be sure who to ask questions to should I need help
It really depends on the facility. From my experience, it can vary between 1-8 people in a department at once in a given shift, but there is usually a lead or supervisor available for you to ask questions if needed.
I wish I would have known I don’t get to sit in my introvert bubble all day. Especially not on day shift.
I make jokes about signing up for the medical aspect but not the tech part. 😂
How is it?
I agree! I feel like people are way more pleasant on day shift though 🤣
@@domilaraeTrue story. Lol
Here in mexico my salary is 6,036 usd anually :(
Is 502 USD per month :((((( !
I wish i knew that career was gonna be poorly paid. 😢
Is that normal salary for healthcare jobs? Would you be able to pivot to other healthcare related jobs?
How do you renew it? Do you take another test?
There’s continuing education and fees to keep up with it. But, you don’t have to retake the test
What is the difference between mlt and mls
MLT has a 2 year associates and MLS has a 4 year bachelor's. The pay will be higher for certified MLS compared to MLT based on education
Thankyou for your answer..and it's a pleasure to meet you 😍 I'm a undergraduate in a state university studying MLS degree in Sri Lanka ..but there is not enough government jobs due to economic crisis..
im a currently 1 semester away from graduating from undergrad wit a degree in psychology but have now realized (quite late i know :( ) that medical lab science was a career field that existed. im passionate about both the medical field and research/lab . Im currently completing an internship in a microbiology lab. Any advice on the possibility of pivoting careers?
Have you had the chance or do you plan to get research lab experience while in undergrad? In my opinion, there isn't that much overlap between medical lab and research lab work - so it would be helpful to get time in both labs to see which one you want to pursue
Can i pursue mls in US with a biochemistry degree from Ghana?
Guidelines may suggest going back to school for a US based MLS program. Biochemistry would moreso prepare you for phd programs or jobs in research
@@domilarae thank you
Hi thank you for your video i have my biology degree
Was told i have to go to school one year for MLS program
I am so tired of school my question is will lab hire you just with bio degree
And is MLS program class hard ?
Yea, I went back to school for it. It really depends on your area that you live in, if hospitals will hire you or not
Hi. i wanted to know if you had any insight or tips for the interview process as a soon to be new grad. Im starting clinicals soon and thats all I keep thinking about(after graduating) lol
I would say apply earlier, like before graduating. I started my job applications about 3 months before graduating and secured a job, which took away a lot of my stress at the time of transitioning to the work force. Good luck! I have a video with tips for the interview process and another vlog for my actual new grad interview experience. Check them out in the playlists section of my channel if you get a chance!
@@domilarae thank you so much your videos have been so helpful as I prepare for clinicals. I’ll def give them a check!!
hello dominique I hope you are fine. I have a few questions for you. So I am a student doing a bachelor degree in medical laboratory sciences in Africa. I'm about to engage soon in my third year; therefore, I am seeking possible opportunities to do an internship in a new area like where you are in order to learn new techniques and methods I would use in this field. Is it possible to come across these opportunities? Also, can we discuss it deeply, not in the comments?
What jobs are available in the lab if someone has a Bachelor's degree in Health Science?
What courses were taken in the health science degree major?
Research, biostatistics, public health, microbiology, biochemistry and more...
Public Health Laboratories sounds like a better fit, like state labs and county labs.
Are you in a biotech city? There's more molecular/genetics type jobs in those areas from what I hear.
Medical labs involve testing for hematology, blood bank, clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, immunology, urinalysis, and molecular diagnostics.
Some states aren't strict, so maybe check job postings in your areas and see what they require for jobs
Thank you for sharing. I currently work as a lab tech and wanted to grow in the field. But I'm thinking with this degree I won't be able to continue working as a tech. I'm not sure if it helps.
Hi Dominique....i love your vedios and am verry much motivated .....am from a tiny kingdom in Africa called Swaziland and am doing my bachelor in Medical laboratory sciences .....i realy found it more challenging .....so can you plz help me understand that is it a profession that can help me change my situation at home coz we arnt that fortunate .
Yes I believe any healthcare profession is a good choice if you want to help people. I’m not sure what medical laboratory science is like in other countries. Maybe try to find local lab professionals where you live and speak with them about choosing this career.
Hy please assist is it possible to go from being an Medical laboratory technologist to a medical laboratory scientist?
It’s the same thing. A medical lab technologist is equivalent to a medical lab scientist in other countries 😊
I think you mean a medical Lab technician, and yess it’s absolutely possible ! You’ll need complete your Bachelors though. Cheers
Im just starting highschool and im looking into becoming a medical scientist and its really interested me but im worried i wont be good enough as one anyways do you have any advice
You'd do just fine, miss. Studying a bit on the profession before you start can also help you.
Just want to add that you will be taught all that you need to know while you go through school. It’s challenging, but very doable, especially if you develop strong study habits while in college
Hey dominique, I have been watching your videos for quite some time now. I am a senior in college, Clinical Laboratory Science major, graduating in May. Are we able to connect ? I need some guidance 😭
Sure! Feel free to message me on instagram @domilarae
Hi,im an undergraduate and im not that good in physics and biology so i want to ask that can i still study mls
Yes, if you work hard to learn the concepts!
Hey dear colleague. With IELTS can one use it to get registered in Australia. I'm from Nigeria
I am not familiar with IELTS. I have only worked in America.
Hello ma'am
I'm a Medical Laboratory Sciencientist from Nigeria, can i have your contact if you don't mind
Medical laboratory scientist is use dr. Prefix
No, mls is a bachelors level degree. Dr prefix is for doctoral degree holders (PhD, MD, etc)
Which field would u recommend after doing bachelors in mlt where money is good and opportunities
It depends on what you want to do? When you figure that out, you can plan opportunities to pursue.
Im a senior in highschool planing to go to college and major in biology, then afterwards do a program to get certified to become an MLS, is this a good plan?
You could just major in mls? It’d be quicker and cheaper in the long run.
@@domilarae Yea I figured…. but the college I really wanted to attend dosent offer it, only biology or cellular biology, maybe I should switch then lol
@@samanthas3189as someone who went straight to college and got my bachelors in biology premed I advice you to definitely get your bs in medical lab science if you know you want to do that as a career. I’m currently back in school so I can get this certification and if I knew about it in the beginning I would’ve definitely went down this route so listen to her she knows what she’s talking about lol. Don’t go to school just for the name or the social life go to a school that will help you build your career.
@samanthas3189 if you want to go MLT/MLS I would go to that program specifically. Going bio into tech school will be both more expensive and more time consuming
Also, it’s good to become a lab assistant or technician first before becoming a scientist. Just to see if you truly like the field honestly.
Great advice!! That’s a good idea, especially for people who are on the fence