On December 22nd, 2016 I began my new job as a lab sample processor for a start-up forensic toxicology lab. For the most part my job experience up to this point had been retail and food service. I was excited that I would get to use a pipette everyday and learned words I had never heard of like "aliquot" and "metabolite." It was a wonderful learning experience. After a year and a half I had made major improvements and was one of the fastest processors. I had taken extensive notes during trainings and meetings and became the go-to person for questions. My work with Microsoft Office improved as well and I was regularly called on to assist with various projects such as daily sample counts. During this time I was also trusted to work independently on Saturdays, and was even allowed to assist the lab assistants with their labeling. More time passed and I helped develop many processes like long term sample storage. My "go-to person" persona became formalized and I was promoted to Processor 2. I helped train and I led. I took care of back-end admin work and more in-depth problem specimens. My problem solving skills and ability to work independently became more and more crucial as I was again promoted, this time to Specimen Management. I was a lead who not only was the primary specimen-fixer but I also managed a team of data entry specialists. When the pandemic hit, I had to manage the workload alone for awhile, but my team started to re-grow. During this time, I also started school. I began with a few classes in the Summer and then by Fall I was trying to work full time and do school full time. This was of course difficult, and I learned many a lesson. I know however that in order for me to reach the goals that I strive for, school has to be the thing that I focus on. It was with much deliberation that I elected to leave my job of 4 years and continue on to seek my dreams. I will miss my old coworkers, the sound of the screening instruments in the background of the lab, the business style coffeemaker, and all of the other things I will keep re-remembering with every passing day. I will have many memories to keep me company and maybe I will see some familiar faces in the future. My plans are as follows: Get ahead in all of my classes, generate new and interesting content, apply for as many scholarships as possible, and in March, get a part time job that will propel me forward in my career. I welcome any assistance or motivation! Signing Off!
-Alix
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