Laboratory science is a vital field that plays a critical role in diagnosing and treating disease. Medical technologists, also known as clinical laboratory scientists, are responsible for performing a wide variety of tests on blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids.
These tests help doctors diagnose illnesses, monitor treatment progress, and determine the best course of care for their patients.
There are many benefits to a career in laboratory science.
1. It is a challenging and rewarding field that offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. Medical technologists play a crucial role in the healthcare team, and their work is essential to diagnosing and treating disease.
2. Laboratory science is a stable and growing field with excellent job prospects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of medical technologists will grow 13% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the aging population, which is more likely to have chronic health conditions requiring laboratory testing.
3. Laboratory science is a well-paying field. The median annual salary for medical technologists was $53,120 in 2020. Salaries vary depending on experience, education, and the geographic location of the job.
4. Laboratory science is a versatile field that offers a variety of career options. Medical technologists can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and research institutions. They can also specialize in multiple areas, such as blood banking, hematology, microbiology, and immunology.
5. Laboratory science is an excellent career for people interested in science and math. Medical technologists must have a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics. They must also be able to think critically and solve problems.
Suppose you seek a challenging and rewarding career with excellent job prospects. In that case, laboratory science may be the perfect fit. To learn more about this field, we found Sharon Fellner, a medical technologist that pursued laboratory science instead of a medical residency.
Sharon Fellner’s Story
Sharon Fellner is a medical technologist that currently works at a hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Sharon says that she loves her job because it is challenging and rewarding. She also enjoys that she can make a difference in people’s lives.
Sharon obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Louisiana State University in 2007, which laid the foundation for her future academic and professional pursuits. Sharon’s passion for genetics and the human body led her to pursue a Master’s in Human Genetics from Tulane University in 2011.
With a strong desire to contribute to the medical field, Sharon earned her Doctorate in Medicine from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in 2018. Sharon has displayed a keen interest in research throughout her academic journey and has published articles in renowned scientific journals. Her research has made significant contributions to human genetics.
Sharon Fellner says she would encourage anyone interested in a career in laboratory science to go for it. She says that it is a great career with excellent job prospects. She also says it is a rewarding career that allows you to make a difference in people’s lives.
If You Are Interested in a Career in Laboratory Science
If you are interested in a career in laboratory science, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, you should take science and math classes in high school. It would help if you also considered taking a college-level course in laboratory science.
Once you have completed your education, you must pass a certification exam. The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) offers a certification exam for medical technologists. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related field.
If you pass the exam, you will be a certified medical technologist. This certification will qualify you for jobs in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and research institutions.
A career in laboratory science is a great way to use your science and math skills to make a difference in people’s lives. If you are interested in a challenging and rewarding career, then laboratory science may be the perfect fit.