Collaboration Results in Successful Bio-Science Graduates at DeKalb Technical College
One hundred percent of the Bio-Science students enrolled in the Medical Laboratory Technology program successfully completed their clinicals and obtained employment at various labs and hospitals. This success is a direct result of the collaboration between DeKalb Technical College (DTC) and DeKalb Workforce Development (DWD) and the support of the new AT&T and DeKalb County Community Development Department. “This is the best class ever, “says Virginia Roberts, Medical Laboratory Instructor and Phlebotomy Program Director. “They are awaiting the results of their State Board Certification Exam.”
The road to this successful endeavor has not been easy. The Medical Laboratory Technology program prepares student for high demand jobs in the health care industry. The demands of the program require that students attend and actively participate full-time in a six month academic and clinical training rotation. “This type of intensive training precludes them from working full time jobs,” says Ms. Roberta Morris, Executive Director of the DeKalb Workforce Development, which secured support sponsors for those students needing assistance. “In order for them to successfully complete this intensive training program they need an extensive array of supportive services,” continued Ms.Morris.
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society student Jivka Terzieva states, “The stipend I received helped pay for rent, books and other necessities. “I am grateful to the organization and to Ms. Morris and Ms. Roberts for recognizing the need.”
Graduates will be working in the medical laboratories throughout Metro Atlanta, including hospitals and medical laboratories such as Quest, the Blood Bank, and Imaging Diagnostic Labs. “The 100% completion rate is literally unheard of,” continued Ms. Morris.
The key to the success of this program and partnership is highly motivated and qualified students and instructors, Ms. Virginia Roberts and Ms. Robin Aiken; committed network of supportive services with DeKalb Workforce Development and Ms. Roberta Morris and Ms. Sheryl Chapman; and a dedicated Career and Job Search Services staff at DeKalb Technical College, Ms. Cynthia Dorsey Edwards, Director.
For more information on the Medical Laboratory Technology and Phlebotomy programs call Virginia Roberts at 404-297-9522, ext. 1160 or visit www.dekalbtech.edu.
