MLT in Kansas Wanting to Become a Pathologists’ Assistant — Looking for Advice
I’m currently working as an MLT (ASCP) in Kansas and am taking my prerequisites so I can enter a bachelor’s program in Medical Laboratory Science. My long-term goal is to become a Pathologists’ Assistant, and I’d really love advice from anyone already in the field or currently in PA school.
I was wondering:
What helped you stand out when applying to PA programs?
Is getting MLS experience before applying a good path?
What kind of lab or pathology experience should I try to get?
Are there certain classes I should focus heavily on?
How competitive are Pathologists’ Assistant programs really?
Any recommendations for shadowing, networking, or preparing for interviews?
Are there any good opportunities in Kansas or nearby states for gaining pathology experience?
I enjoy the laboratory side of healthcare and really like pathology, histology, and anatomy. I’m trying to make smart decisions now while I finish my prerequisites and future MLS degree.
I’d appreciate any tips, experiences, or things you wish you knew before starting this path.