Facebook Feedback: Advice for Grads
We love the conversations and feedback we get on our Facebook page! Graduation season is upon us, so last week, we asked about the best advice you received when you graduated, or the advice you would give a new grad. Here are a few unedited responses. Add your own to the comments section.
- I recommend that the techs work as a generalist first, as many different departments as possible. I find that most new grads now want day shift positions in one dept, but that's not very realistic; when day shift positions open, they are usually filled by eve/night shift generalists. And I also recommend that they take the ASCP exam ASAP after graduation; some I know have waited a year, and they all failed it. Take it while it is still fresh in your mind.
- I was told to treat every patient's sample as if it is your own family member. Best advice I have ever received.
- I agree with taking the test asap. Generalists are needed more then specialists from what I've seen and experienced. I am a generalist and I find myself more marketable then a specialist, plus it is not boring working in 1 section all the time. I work third shift and love it, aside from the differential pay I like the hours too. Also do not sell yourself too short, I've worked with a MT that has his masters and was only making $2.00 more then I did. You worked hard for your degree so look for a position that pays for that education. Remember MLT and MT is marketable nation wide, don't just look for jobs locally, expand your horizons!
- Working as a generalist after graduation can be very stressful!! I graduated last year and am currently working as a night shift generalist...I have to admit I'm learning alot though..
- Best advice I received: "Be sure to cross your Ts and dot your Is...then when you're done, go back and make sure you've crossed your Fs and dot your Js...point? Learn to be meticulous."
- I agree with Hadassa. My first position post graduation was for a reference blood bank. Best to always catch your mistakes before someone else does. This is especially true when a life is on the line.
- Learn as much as you can in as many departments as you can work. Ask questions when you know you don't know what you are doing. The situation is easier to fix BEFORE you make it worse.
- Listen to the words of the older techs..many of them have learned the hard way and can give yoou some expert advice that may keep you fro learning the hard way!
- Pave your own path and trust your gut. Everyone has an opinion about what the best professional road for you will be but in the end, it is your journey.