Her Story
About Ashley
I started in this field after graduating in 2019 with a forensics degree during COVID when forensic jobs were scarce. I became one of the youngest lead medical scientists after stepping up during the pandemic when our small department grew rapidly. My mentor Nancy Milligan was key to my success, providing guidance and support. I focus on molecular laboratory testing for women's health and respiratory samples, emphasizing both efficiency and patient care.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashley
01What do you attribute your success to?
Having a good supportive supervisor or manager like my mentor Nancy Milligan is vital. She helped me navigate the field, learn, and stay updated on regulations, making the chaotic medical field manageable and interesting.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be a sponge and absorb all information around you. Learn from elders in the field but also remember that every sample you hold is a person, not just a tube of blood. This base knowledge in lab testing will help you in any medical career path.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges include short staffing and misinformation about tests, even from doctors ordering wrong codes. Opportunities are abundant as the field is always hiring and serves as a great stepping stone for new graduates with science degrees to learn broadly before advancing.
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