Name: Peter Osha Program: MS, Immunology and Infection Graduation Year: 2023 What is your current profession? Medical Laboratory Technologist I What led you to choose UT Health San Antonio? I chose UT Health San Antonio because it offers a comprehensive and impactful environment for students, researchers, and healthcare professionals looking to excel in the health sciences. What did you do after graduating? Applied for jobs that aligned with my career goal. Tell me more about your career path? With a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in microbiology with a focus on immunology and infection, Potential career paths for me include roles as a research scientist in academia or industry, a clinical research coordinator, a medical science liaison, a public health specialist, a professional in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry, or an academic in teaching and research. Tell me about your current career, what do you do? As medical laboratory technologists, we perform a variety of essential tasks in healthcare settings like conducting laboratory tests on different types of samples, analyze and interpret results, operate and maintain laboratory equipment, ensure quality control, maintain accurate records, collaborate with healthcare professionals, and adhere to strict safety protocols. What is the most challenging part of your work? Various challenges in my work, including the pressure to maintain accuracy and precision in test results, managing heavy workloads efficiently, handling complex cases that require critical thinking, working under stress during emergency situations, keeping up with continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field, and navigating interpersonal challenges within multidisciplinary teams. What is the most rewarding part of your work? The direct impact on patient care and knowing that I could be potentially saving lives. What is a day like in your job? A typical day for me involves performing a variety of laboratory tests on patient samples, analyzing results, ensuring quality control, and collaborating with healthcare professionals. In addition, we receive and process samples, operate laboratory equipment, conduct tests, interpret results, maintain records, and communicating with colleagues. It is a very fast-paced environment, handling multiple tasks simultaneously, adhering to strict protocols, and prioritizing patient care. What advice do you have for people entering or currently in the field? To become a medical laboratory technologist, you need a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field from an accredited program, followed by certification from organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). This role requires proficiency in using laboratory equipment, attention to detail, analytical skills, and effective communication. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, clinical rotations, and volunteer work is crucial. Joining professional organizations and seeking mentors can provide valuable networking opportunities. How did the education you get at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio prepare you? My Master’s in Microbiology focused on Immunology and Infection at UT Health San Antonio prepared me for a Medical Laboratory Technologist role by providing: 1. Advanced Knowledge: Deep understanding of microorganisms, immune responses, and infectious diseases. 2. Practical Skills: Hands-on experience with lab techniques and diagnostic equipment. 3. Research Experience: Development of critical thinking and data analysis skills. 4. Clinical Insight: Knowledge of current medical practices and diagnostic methods. 5. Safety and Compliance: Training in laboratory safety and regulatory standards. 6. Communication Abilities: Effective communication with healthcare professionals.