A world of opportunity: Building a career in laboratory medicine

Moving to another country takes courage.

For Micah, it meant leaving behind her family, stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing the unknown in pursuit of a career in healthcare.

Today, she's studying a Master of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Newcastle, building the practical skills and industry experience to achieve her goal of working in diagnostic pathology.

After completing a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology in the Philippines, Micah knew she wanted to continue learning in an environment that would prepare her for the next stage of her career.

"The Master of Laboratory Medicine appealed to me because of its strong focus on practical learning, current laboratory practices, and industry placement opportunities. It also aligns with my long-term goal of building a career in diagnostic pathology and healthcare," she shares.

That combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience has become one of the highlights of her degree.

Professional placement in a pathology laboratory has given Micah the opportunity to experience the diagnostic profession firsthand while applying the knowledge she's developed throughout her studies.

"One of the biggest highlights of my degree has been completing my professional placement with a pathology laboratory, where I gained hands-on experience in a real diagnostic setting. I have also enjoyed learning about genomics, haematology, and quality assurance through both laboratory and classroom-based activities. These experiences have strengthened my technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and confidence in working within a professional healthcare environment."

She says it's the University's balance of theory and practical learning that has made the biggest difference.

"What stands out to me most is the balance between theory and practical learning. The lecturers are approachable and bring real industry experience into the classroom, which helps connect what we learn to real-world laboratory practice," Micah says.

Outside the laboratory, Micah has discovered that studying overseas is about much more than earning a qualification.

She enjoys exploring Newcastle's cafés, creating content, meeting new people and making the most of university life while balancing her studies with casual work in retail.

Receiving the University of Newcastle International Excellence Scholarship has also helped make that journey possible.

The scholarship eased some of the financial pressure of studying overseas, allowing Micah to focus on her studies, placement experiences and personal growth.

"Receiving the scholarship was also a meaningful recognition of my academic achievements and encouraged me to continue striving for excellence throughout my degree," she shares.

Like many international students, Micah admits there were moments when moving overseas felt overwhelming.

Leaving behind family and familiar surroundings wasn't always easy, but she quickly found a welcoming community through classes, orientation and student activities.

"One moment that stands out was during my first few months at university when I started forming close friendships with my classmates. Moving overseas meant leaving behind my family and support network, so there were times when I felt homesick and overwhelmed."

Those friendships helped transform Newcastle from somewhere new into somewhere that felt like home.

"Through classes, study sessions, and university activities, I met people who became close friends and helped me feel at home in Newcastle. It was during those moments that I realised I wasn't navigating this journey alone and that I truly belonged within the University of Newcastle community."

As graduation approaches, Micah hopes to build a career in diagnostic pathology and laboratory medicine, contributing to patient care through accurate testing and continuing to learn as healthcare technology evolves.

It's a career that excites her because of the impact it has behind the scenes.

"What excites me most is knowing that laboratory professionals play a vital role behind the scenes in patient diagnosis and treatment," she says.

Looking back, Micah says saying yes to opportunities has made all the difference.

From professional placement and career workshops to exploring Newcastle and building friendships, every experience has helped her grow both personally and professionally.

For future international students considering the University of Newcastle, her advice is simple.

"Take advantage of every opportunity available to you, both inside and outside the classroom. The Master of Laboratory Medicine program offers valuable practical learning and industry placement experiences that can help prepare you for your future career. I would also encourage students to attend campus events, as they are a great way to meet people and often include free food and resources."

One of the biggest highlights of my degree has been completing my professional placement with a pathology laboratory, where I gained hands-on experience in a real diagnostic setting.