How Karla Guides Students to Success in the Medical Laboratory Assistant Technician Program

In healthcare education, inspiring instructors play a critical role in shaping not only technical competence, but confidence, compassion, and professional purpose. The guidance students receive in the classroom becomes the foundation for how they show up in laboratories, clinics, and patient-facing environments—often influencing the kind of professionals they become long after graduation.

Karla exemplifies the profound impact thoughtful, student-centred teaching can have. As an instructor in Anderson College’s Medical Laboratory Assistant Technician program, she brings years of hands-on laboratory experience together with patience, empathy, and a deep respect for every learner’s journey. Whether supporting students who are navigating a new language, encouraging those who doubt their abilities, or reminding future professionals of the responsibility behind every lab result, Karla’s influence extends far beyond course material. Her story is one of purpose-driven teaching, mentorship, and an unwavering belief in student potential—setting the stage for the meaningful work she does each day in the classroom.

A Medical Laboratory Assistant Technician Program Instructor Shaping Confidence Through Mentorship

A Foundation Built in the Laboratory

Before she ever stood at the front of a classroom, Karla built her career in real laboratory environments, where accuracy, responsibility, and teamwork directly affect patient outcomes.

“I actually started my career in healthcare, and I’ve always been fascinated by laboratory medicine. Back in my home country, I already understood how much lab results help doctors make the right decisions, and that’s what really drew me into this field.”

Her early experience shaped how she understands the profession today. “I’ve been working in healthcare for about 10 to 13 years prior to coming here to Canada.”
Those years in the lab continue to guide how she teaches, grounding every lesson in real-world relevance and accountability.

From Practitioner to Purpose-Driven Educator

Karla’s path into teaching was shaped by ambition, gratitude, and a desire to give back.

“When I came here, I first worked at Dynacare in Saskatchewan and then moved to Ontario and worked with Dynacare again. I loved what I was doing, but I also wanted to be certified so I could take the next step, maybe even work in the main lab or move into leadership roles.”

Her own experience as a student at Anderson College left a lasting impression.

“I was lucky to learn from two instructors during a transition period. They were both so dedicated and caring, and that really inspired me. When I was a student, I saw how they truly cared about our growth, and that stayed with me.”

Teaching became a natural extension of her values. “I wanted to share not just the ‘how,’ but the ‘why’ behind every procedure.”

Teaching With Purpose in the MLAT Program

In the classroom, growth is something Karla witnesses every day, not just in skills, but in confidence and self-belief.

“I really enjoy watching the students grow, from being unsure and very nervous at the beginning to seeing their confidence and skills come out by the end.”

Those moments of understanding are deeply rewarding. “When they finally understand a difficult concept or get that ‘aha’ moment, it’s very fulfilling. You think, ‘Wow, I got to be part of that growth.’”

This is the heart of a medical laboratory assistant course, where learning builds both skill and self-belief.

Supporting the Whole Student

Creating a space where students feel supported—academically and personally—is central to Karla’s approach to teaching.

“I like to explain things step by step and share lab stories—real experiences—so students can connect learning to real situations.”

She also challenges students to grow beyond the classroom. “I give group reports and short research topics to force students to read, explore, and find resources beyond what I teach.”

Just as important is emotional support. “I always tell them they can come to me anytime—whether it’s about class or personal problems. I’ll try my best to help them.”

This approach reflects the depth of medical laboratory assistant education needed for real-world practice.

Guiding Students Through Challenge and Growth

Some of the most powerful moments in Karla’s teaching journey begin with students who doubt themselves.

“There was one student in my very first class who struggled a lot at the beginning because English wasn’t her first language. She was shy and had trouble with confidence.”

Rather than letting that hold the student back, Karla offered quiet, consistent encouragement. “I would repeat key words and gently call on her—not to embarrass her, but to help her practice speaking.”

The outcome was powerful. “Over time, her confidence grew so much that she became one of the most reliable students in the group. Seeing her walk across the stage at graduation was one of my proudest moments.”

This is the impact of thoughtful medical laboratory assistant training.

The Reward of Watching Students Succeed

The impact of teaching, Karla believes, is often felt long after students leave the classroom.

“Some students keep in touch and tell me they got a job or that something I taught helped them at work. Hearing that makes me smile; it means I was part of their journey.”

Professional recognition also affirms her impact. “Sometimes friends in the field tell me former students spoke highly of me, and that makes me feel proud.”

These moments reinforce a meaningful medical laboratory assistant career path built on confidence and care.

Graduation Day: A Moment That Matters

Graduation is where everything comes together.

“It feels like watching your own children graduate. I was very emotional, really proud and happy.”

Meeting families makes it even more meaningful. “Some students introduced me to their families. Seeing how proud everyone was – that’s something I’ll never forget.”

It’s a reminder of how far students have come, and how ready they are to step forward.

Teaching Through the Lens of a Parent

Teaching took on new meaning for Karla when her son chose to follow a similar educational path.

“He saw me working on my slides and teaching online for years. When he started thinking about his career, it was completely his choice.”

Watching him navigate the program reinforced her empathy. “It reminded me that every student is someone’s child. It made me even more patient and understanding.”

Advice for Students Beginning Their Journey

When asked what she would share with new students, Karla speaks with both honesty and reassurance.

“Don’t be scared to step out of your comfort zone. Everything will feel new at first, and that’s okay.”

Persistence matters. “Keep showing up, keep practicing, and trust the process.”

And above all: “You’re not alone; everyone at Anderson is here to help you.”

This support is central to preparing students for a lasting medical laboratory assistant career.

A Lasting Impact Through Mentorship

Karla’s story reflects the vital role instructors play in shaping healthcare professionals. Through patience, experience, and genuine care, she helps students recognize their own potential, often before they see it themselves. We are truly honoured to have Karla as part of our team and grateful for the lasting influence and impact she has on students as they step confidently into their future careers.

Begin Your Own Journey

Explore Anderson College’s Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician Diploma and learn how supportive instruction and hands-on learning can prepare you for a future in medical laboratory sciences.

Book a virtual appointment with an Admissions Advisor or try the Take the “Medical Professional Career Discovery Quiz” to explore your path forward.