Medical technologists perform essential laboratory testing that is critical to the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. They prepare and analyze body tissues, blood and fluids for doctors and researchers in the diagnosis of diseases. Their work includes the use of microscopes, chemicals, computers, and complex laboratory equipment and instruments. They perform tests in all sections of the laboratory including hematology, bacteriology, chemistry, urinology, serology, forensic pathology, immunology, and toxicology.

Many medical technologists, also known as medical laboratory scientists, work in hospital settings. However, you can also find a career in a research lab studying genetics, in a crime lab doing forensic work, at a pharmaceutical company helping to develop new drugs, or in a physician’s office matching blood types. Often, people in this field have patient and doctor interaction.

One recent graduate said, "We're the 'behind the scenes' part of medicine. The doctors rely on techs to help them diagnose their patients." Another said, "I have never been one to be on the front lines, but have always wanted to be a vital part of patient care. Being a medical laboratory scientist fills me with satisfaction."

As a medical technologist, you’ll not only earn a good salary and be highly marketable in a fast-growing health care field, you’ll also be helping people, and helping to improve the human condition.