Hired Before Graduation – Samantha Laird
Name: Samantha Laird
Hometown: Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Graduation date: May 19, 2018
Area of study: Medical Laboratory Technician
Place of employment: United Clinical Laboratories – Dubuque, Iowa
Job responsibilities: Testing specimens in the laboratory to help aid the physician in a diagnosis. In the lab we handle many body fluids that can be tested, such as blood, urine, spinal fluid, and so much more. We are responsible to get accurate results back to the physicians in a timely manner to help them with treatment at a cost-effective price.
How did Southwest Tech prepare you for your current position? I felt Southwest Tech prepared me very well for my career. My professors did a great job at making us feel like we were in a work setting while in the lab. I was always eager to go to class and I learned so much in two years.
Why did you choose your current field? Science is such a fast-developing field. Technology is always advancing. I love that with the resources we have we can aid the physicians in treatment to patients much faster than we ever could.
What advice would you have for younger students who are thinking about their future? Chase your dreams no matter how crazy they seem. I have loved science my entire life but never felt I was smart enough to achieve a degree that would involve me saving lives every day. Find something you are passionate for and strive to achieve it.