MCC Graduate Ready to Enter Workforce to Become Med Lab Tech

“Middlesex Community College can offer you a more affordable and shorter option with all the qualifications and robust knowledge needed to start a new career,” said Daniel Yepes Gonzalez, a recent graduate of MCC’s Medical Laboratory Technician program.

As a phlebotomist at Lawrence General Hospital, Gonzalez wanted to change careers. Middlesex was one of a few Med Lab Tech programs allowing students to work and earn an associate degree at the same time. After graduating in 2021 with an “excellent education,” he is ready to enter the workforce in his new role and looks forward to pursing advanced degrees.

From Salem, N.H., Gonzalez recommends a career in Med Lab Tech for anyone who wants to work in healthcare without direct patient contact. With committed professors – who are active in the field – and a comprehensive curriculum, he believes Middlesex has “one of the best and strongest Med Lab Tech programs in the area.”

Gonzalez’s MCC Med Lab Tech professors provided him with an “incredible experience” during his time in the program. Both Suzanne McHale – who is also coordinator of the program – and Chris Laviolette proved their dedication to their students and willingness to help each one on an individual level.

“I had two wonderful professors who – other than being caring educators – showed me what hard work could accomplish,” he said. “They have been a great example to me as they teach students how to become Med Lab Techs while working in the field themselves.”

In his first semester of MCC’s program – which Gonzalez describes as “crucial” to success – students get an introduction to the lecture and lab environment. In addition to providing a foundation of knowledge and content, the introductory courses also show students what they will be doing once they start working in the field. Additional courses throughout the program include learning more about hematology, blood banking, microbiology, clinical chemistry and urinalysis.

Throughout his time in the program, Gonzalez also participated in four clinical rotations to put the theory he learned in his classes into practice. He had the opportunity to complete his rotations at Lawrence General where he already worked and felt comfortable.

“The clinical experience is one of the most important moments or events that the Med Lab Tech program has to offer,” Gonzalez said. “It allows you to learn on the job from many different people with different backgrounds and levels of experience.”

As he begins his new job in a different healthcare field, Gonzalez is looking forward to getting a few years of experience before going back for his bachelor’s degree.

“Thanks to Chris and Sue, the program offers all the qualifications needed to be a successful Med Lab Tech,” Gonzalez said. “The strong foundation acquired in this program will help me in my future academic and professional goals.”

According to McHale, MCC’s Med Lab Tech program is expanding its outreach after signing an affiliation agreement with Health Alliance – Leominster Hospital/Clinton Hospital. McHale calls it “a great opportunity for our program,” as she is also in the process of creating more agreements to increase offerings.

Part of the Health Pathway, the Medical Laboratory program at Middlesex helps students go into – and succeed in – the workforce or transfer to four-year schools with its award-winning and affordable offerings, small class sizes and flexible schedules. For more information on MCC’s Health programs, visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/discover/dyp_health.aspx and discover your path at Middlesex.

For more information on MCC’s Medical Laboratory Technician program, contact Suzanne McHale, Program Coordinator, at mchales@middlesex.mass.edu or call 978-322-8412.

If you have ever taken a class at MCC, you are an alum! To share your story – and join the free Alumni Association – contact Amy Lee, Director of Annual Giving & Alumni Relations, at 978-656-3028 or leea@middlesex.mass.edu. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/alumni for more information.

Featuring a variety of on campus, online and a hybrid mix of both course formats, students can get back on track and reach their goals during the Fall 2021 semester at Middlesex. To register, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434.

Discover your path at Middlesex Community College. As one of the largest, most comprehensive community colleges in Massachusetts, MCC has been a proven leader in education for more than 50 years. Middlesex puts the student first. Meeting each learner where they are, MCC provides them with a safe, welcoming and engaging place to learn. Offering more than 80 degree and certificate programs – plus hundreds of noncredit courses – Middlesex features flexible course formats and a variety of award-winning student support services and resources. Student success starts at MCC!