As part of Lab Week 2021, we are sharing interviews of Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) graduates! Today, we are hearing from Morgan Martin who is employed at the blood bank at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
How would you describe MLT to someone who has NO CLUE what it is?
We are responsible for all of the laboratory testing done in places such as a hospital or doctor’s office. We test all kinds of body fluids such as blood and urine in order to get test results that ultimately lead to a diagnosis or treatment of a patient! Fun fact: 70% of diagnoses come from lab results. Without the lab, you’re just guessing.
How has graduating from ZSC’s MLT program changed your life?
Graduating from the Zane State MLT program has had an amazing impact on my life. It allowed me to immediately get hired in the blood bank at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and that job has paid my way through a bachelor’s degree at OSU! It set me up for success in my new career, where I have excelled in a busy and complicated laboratory!
What was your greatest challenge in becoming an MLT? Was it worth it?
My biggest challenge in becoming an MLT was the amount of time I had to dedicate to school and studying. I began the program when I was 17, so this was a big sacrifice of my social life. It was most definitely worth it though, and I wouldn’t change a thing!
What is your favorite thing about being an MLT?
My favorite part of being an MLT is being so instrumental in patient care and being able to help so many people. We are definitely behind the scene heroes in the lab.
What would you say to someone who is on the fence about becoming an MLT?
I would say that it is a great pathway for so many people. Personally, this is a stepping stone for me for medical school. I will have such an advantage going into medical school with all of this knowledge of laboratory tests and what they mean.
What advice would you give to a new MLT student?
I would say to not get discouraged. You learn a lot of complex information, and there is a learning curve. It can be overwhelming at times. But you will get there! And study study study!
Thank you, Morgan, for sharing your story with us!
