Why I chose to get a degree in Med Lab science.

During high school I always found the science courses more interesting than the others and with that interest I excelled. I liked getting to know what happens within our bodies and why things are the way they are in the world. When it came to applying to universities in grade 12 I began to look for a program that related to science. I applied for kinesiology, health sciences, life sciences and med lab.

When I was researching the med lab program I became very interested. I had never heard of a program like this before and the description sounded "right up my alley". After sending in my application I realized that the med lab program was the only one I really wanted to be accepted into. I became obsessed and was looking up everything on the profession and that is when I knew that this is what I wanted to do with my life. Looking at program maps and seeing courses like: Microbiology, Pathophysiology, Hematology, Biochemistry, Histotechnology etc. got me excited. The thought of working in a lab daily, performing lab tests, finding what is wrong with patients and being able to help with treatments was very appealing. Also, the fact that it was more "behind-the-scenes".

I chose to get a degree in med lab rather than a diploma because I feel that there are more options once you obtain your degree afterward (like Master's degrees, med school etc.). I feel like I would have to get a degree in something else and then get the diploma and being in school for 6-8 years doesn't sound very fun.

Currently, I am entering my second/third year of my program at UOIT and I love it. I have come across some challenges but in the end I know it will be worth it. I am looking forward to my final semester where I am working in a lab within a hospital. I feel that it will be a good way to learn what the profession will feel like, develop a connection for a possible job after graduation and just be a good experience overall.