Expectation vs. Reality: My Journey from Student to Professional Lab Tech

By Isabella Bigando, Lab Technician at Reference Medicine

If you’re a student preparing to enter the world of professional lab work, chances are you’ve heard the horror stories—long hours, tedious tasks, and less-than-inspiring pay. I was in the same boat not long ago. But as someone who has made the transition from being a forensic biology student to a full-time lab technician, I’m here to tell you: it’s a wonderful, challenging, and exciting adventure.

In this post, I’ll share my journey from student to lab tech, including the biggest surprises, the lessons I’ve learned, and the advice I wish someone had given me along the way. If you’re worried about the job hunt or how to thrive in your first role, keep reading—I’ve got you covered.

What I Thought My First Lab Job Would Be Like

Like many students, I went through college with a mix of excitement and uncertainty about my career. Studying forensic biology at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I envisioned working in a highly inspirational environment where every task felt meaningful. However, I also heard plenty of warnings from classmates and professors—stories about being overworked, underpaid, and feeling unfulfilled in entry-level positions.

Before landing my first role, I worried about whether I’d find a job that matched up with my interests. Would I be able to balance my work and personal life? Would I be stuck doing monotonous tasks without opportunities to grow? I had no idea what to expect.

The Reality of Becoming a Lab Tech

Fast forward to today—I work at Reference Medicine, an oncology specimen provider based in Arizona. I found my position through a combination of careful job searching, networking, and manifesting my ideal job through journaling.

The reality of lab work is far from the scary stories I’d heard. While there are challenges, I quickly learned that the right workplace makes all the difference. I was surprised by how much collaboration happens in a professional lab. 

In school, problem-solving was mostly an individual effort. In a professional lab, teamwork is key—when something goes wrong, you talk about it, ask questions, and work together to fix it. Professional camaraderie and true collaboration unite the team toward one focused goal.

I feel very fulfilled in my work at Reference Medicine because I am a valued team member, with mentors that guide me in my continuous learning process, a culture that emphasizes a positive work-life balance as well as personal and professional growth.

The Job Hunt: What to Look for in a Lab Tech Role

During my job search, I found it helpful to create two lists: must-haves and nice-to-haves. My must-haves included financial stability and opportunities for professional growth, while my nice-to-haves focused on work-life balance and company culture.

One crucial lesson I learned: Ask the right questions during interviews. When interviewing for my current role, I asked why the position was open. When I heard that the previous technician had taken another job with a significant promotion, it signaled that the company valued employee growth—a huge green flag for me.

If you’re job hunting, consider asking:

• How does the company support professional development?
• What does a typical day look like in this role?
• Why is this position open?
• What is the culture like?

Lessons Learned as a New Lab Tech

Every workplace has its own culture and set of unspoken rules. Here are a few things I wish I’d known sooner:

• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions. If something seems off, it probably is. Double-check your work, and if there’s any doubt, ask a colleague. At Reference Medicine, the culture is extremely collaborative and my team always has my back.
• Say Yes to New Opportunities. When someone asks for volunteers to learn a new technique or handle a task, raise your hand. It’s one of the fastest ways to grow.
• Manage Imposter Syndrome. I struggled with self-doubt in my first few months, but my supervisor played a huge role in helping me navigate it. She encouraged me and celebrated my victories – and she proactively asked how I want to receive feedback when she has constructive criticism, which makes it much easier to hear and act on without feeling like a failure.

How to Set Yourself Up for Growth & Success

The most successful lab techs don’t just clock in and out—they take initiative. Here are a few things you can do now to set yourself up for a strong career path:

• Network Early and Often. Build relationships with professors, mentors, and colleagues. Go to professional meetings. Be involved. For instance, I attended the American Academy of Forensic Sciences conference as a student, which helped me connect with professionals in the field.
• Look into Certifications. Some positions don’t require certifications, but having them can give you a competitive edge. I’m currently exploring the ASCP Molecular Biology exam to expand my qualifications.
• Stay Curious and Open-Minded. Career paths aren’t set in stone. If you discover a new passion within the lab, follow it!

Advice for Future Lab Techs

If you’re preparing to transition into the workforce, here are my top takeaways:

• Make Connections Early. Whether through professors, internships, or conferences, the people you meet can open doors.
• Be Teachable. The learning doesn’t stop after graduation—embrace it.
• Use Journaling as a Tool. Writing down my goals helped me gain clarity and confidence during my job search.
• Trust the Process. It’s okay to feel uncertain, but things have a way of working out when you stay proactive and adaptable.‍

Looking Ahead

The transition from student to lab tech can be daunting, but with the right mindset and support, it’s a rewarding journey. My experience at Reference Medicine has shown me that the right workplace can make all the difference. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember—everyone starts somewhere, and the learning never stops.

So to all of you students out there preparing for the job market: you’ve got this. Be open, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take that first step. Your future in the lab is going to shine bright! 

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