Julia

And Just Like That … You Are an Advocate

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Advocacy in clinical laboratory science starts with simple actions like conversations or invitations. ASCLS empowers members through resources like the Labvocate website and Labvocate Symposium. Legislative engagement is key, especially amid healthcare cuts and outdated policies. Getting involved—even by saying “yes” to small asks—helps raise the profession’s…

Academic Advocacy in Action

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Mercer County Community College fosters medical laboratory science advocacy by creating career entry pathways, forming strategic partnerships, promoting student leadership, and engaging in community outreach. Through events, social media, and professional society involvement, the college cultivates student advocates—“Labvocates”—who champion the profession and drive positive change at local…

Spreading the Profession

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Author Judy Garic advocates for medical laboratory professionals through student outreach, professional engagement, and legislative action. Efforts include interactive school displays, networking events, legislative advocacy, and public awareness campaigns like radio interviews and high-profile Medical Laboratory Professionals Week signage. By increasing visibility and fostering connections, the profession’s…

The Power of Micro-Level Advocacy in the Medical Laboratory Profession

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Advocacy in medical laboratory science begins on a personal level, through individual conversations and education. Author Katie Guise emphasizes that sharing personal stories and educating others—whether peers, legislators, or students—builds awareness and humanizes the profession. While large-scale initiatives matter, everyday interactions form the foundation of lasting advocacy…

From the Bench to the Boardroom

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Medical laboratory scientists increasingly pursue nontraditional careers in education, informatics, policy, leadership, entrepreneurship, and industry. Their technical expertise positions them to innovate in healthcare, public health, and business. With roles ranging from educators to executives and entrepreneurs, MLS professionals can expand their impact while continuing to advance…

“What We’ve Got Here Is a Failure to Communicate”

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Effective communication in healthcare is essential for patient safety, outcomes, and workplace culture. Since most professionals lack formal training in professional communication, organizations must provide ongoing education using tools like TeamSTEPPS. Leadership plays a key role by modeling mindful, clear, and respectful communication, ensuring teamwork thrives and…

Sun, Sand, and Science in Texas

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary The Texas Association of Clinical Laboratory Science (TACLS) Annual Meeting in Corpus Christi featured educational sessions, student competitions, poster presentations, and networking events. Highlights included a keynote on HR, Student Bowl games, Lab Olympics, and a memorable session on brain-eating amoebas. Awards honored student and professional achievements,…

The Four Types of Imposter Syndrome

Volume 39 Number 4 | August 2025 Summary Imposter syndrome causes individuals to doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as frauds. It includes overachievers like perfectionists and people-pleasers, who mask insecurity through overwork and constant approval-seeking, and non-starters like those with paralysis or procrastination tendencies, who avoid tasks to prevent failure. Recovery is possible…