MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

Graduated in 2009
Vice President, Integrated Labs
MedStar Health

Q: Why did you choose Wayne State University?

A: I was impressed with the breadth of programs that Wayne State offered. Only knowing that I wanted to go into the sciences, I felt confident that I would be able to find a career path at Wayne State University.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this career?

A: I knew that I wanted to work in the science field, and most likely something in health care, however I did not have a desire to be in a patient care role nor did I want to be in a research lab. CLS (now MLS) gave me the opportunity to work in the health care field in a more technical role, still impacting patient care but not directly involved with their care and treatments.

Q: Who was your most memorable instructor?

A: I think Jean Garza was my most memorable professor. She was always a kind voice to help navigate through the program. Jean also helped us transition from school life to clinical rotation life and on to professional, employed life.

Q: What was your most challenging class?

A: I struggled with philosophy. As a scientist, I prefer logic and tangible metrics; the reassurance of the 'proof' science offers. I struggle with philosophy as a class because it intentionally chips away at this. The concepts help me remain curious, however as an academic class I found it challenging.

Q: Share some reflections about your time at Wayne State.

A: The diversity of the student body of Wayne State University gave me the opportunity to engage with many perspectives and personalities which helped me stretch and grow as a person. This insight helps me empathize with a wider group of people and helps ground me to my own and other life experiences that I would normally not have the opportunity to connect with.

Q: Share a career highlight or summary:

A: I have enjoyed working in different leadership roles in several health systems with varying hospital sizes. I cannot overemphasize the importance my mentors have made in my life.

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The bachelor of science in Medical Laboratory Science is offered through Wayne State’s Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences with an application deadline of May 1. Medical laboratory scientists work behind the scenes to provide critical information to doctors through medical tests. In fact, lab results inform more than 70% of diagnoses, allowing doctors to tailor treatment plans and therapies to each patient. Medical laboratory scientists may also pursue careers in medical information systems technology, research and design new testing methods, or go on to medical school.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels – from undergraduates to veteran faculty members – translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.