What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am a laboratory assistant at UPHS – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I have always loved working with people, but found myself drawn to hands-on sciences in school. My aunt, a clinical laboratory technologist, introduced me to the field of clinical sciences.    

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

A typical day for me begins at 4 a.m., drawing labs for inpatients across all hospital floors. It can be challenging since no patient enjoys being woken up for a blood draw. 

Regardless, I love caring for patients here. It’s rewarding to interact with patients throughout the hospital and see their journeys. We get to be a fly on the wall as they transition from the Intensive Care Unit to step-down units and eventually to outpatient care, witnessing the difference that's made.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I have been here for almost two years now and have stayed as a laboratory assistant while continuing my education at Northern Michigan University (NMU) until I can work as a lab technician. 

What are some of the big changes you've experienced in this position?

The biggest change I have experienced in this position was the transition to Cerner and navigating the technical challenges it brought, all while ensuring patient care was not affected.  

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 

I enjoy camping, swimming, hiking, disc golf, reading, spending time with friends and taking my dog, Agate, to hunt for Lake Superior agates. I have no favorite place, but my favorite thing about living in the Upper Peninsula is that every day is an opportunity for a new adventure.  

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

My favorite part about UP Health System – Marquette is the people I work with. To my boss, the fantastic laboratory staff, the cashier in the cafeteria whom I see every morning, the nursing staff in every corner of the hospital and all the other familiar faces I pass in the hallway; you all make each day worth it.