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#IamASCLS Cynthia Dixey

By Andrea Hickey posted 02-19-2017 17:23

  

 

-Name and hometown:

Cynthia Dixey, Sparta, New Jersey

-How would you describe yourself as a person?

Introverted and passionate about what I love.

-Job title/specialization?

Medical Laboratory Scientist/ Molecular Diagnostic Department Lead

-What got you into the field of Clinical Laboratory Sciences?

The ability to help people, both patients and co-workers, having unlimited job opportunities, and knowing that I can go beyond the bench and continue to grow professionally.

-What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Being President of ASCLS-NJ

-What makes you diverse?

I started my career as an MLS late in life after already establishing a career in electronics with the US Navy and working with government contractors testing, troubleshooting, and repairing military equipment.  Even though I have only been an MLS since 2011, I believe that the one thing people can learn from me is that it is never too late to start a career that you love.  Of course there where sacrifices I had to make in my personal life, but I, as well as those close to me, are happy as a result of me going back to school and beginning a new career.  

-How has ASCLS impacted you?

I am very shy and ASCLS has helped me break out of my shell.  I have, and will continue to speak to the students of the NJ MLS and MLT programs about ASCLS and the benefits of being a member and to let them know that the only limits that you have in this career are those you put on yourself.  It always nice to have the students come up to me afterwards to let me know I inspired them in some way.  I also am the Industry Exhibits Chair for ASCLS-NJ and therefore have to introduce myself to vendors.  It’s not easy for me, but not get the support for the organization would be even worse. 

-What is your favorite part about the job?

It doesn’t happen often, but hearing from patients that the laboratory professionals made a difference in their lives is worthwhile.  One such story happened at my first job in blood bank.  Even though the patient passed away after multiple blood transfusions, the family wrote us a letter personally thanking us for doing what we could to help their loved one. 

-Your biggest achievements or proudest moments, both in your career and normal life:

My proudest moment is graduating from college.  I would spend hours sitting in front of the fireplace with all my books surrounding me.   My husband, David, cleaned up around my books and me and did all the cooking.  He reassured me that I didn’t flunk my test and he said he didn’t care to take care of the house and me as long as I kept getting good grades.  So I did just that.  Since I could never have gotten my degree without him, I feel that a part of my degree belongs to him.

-In your eyes, why should people join ASCLS?

I tell people that they can be involved with ASCLS as little or as much as possible.  The committees are as diverse as people’s interests.  If you are the creative type, join the Brochure or Publications committees.  If you like politics, join the GAC and attend Leg Day.  If posting to Facebook is your thing, join the Social Networking Committee.  If you want to spread the word about the profession join the Marketing and Public Relations Committee.   Besides, we could always use fresh ideas and new insight. Sometimes I am so focused on the day to day workings of the organization, that my creativeness for new ideas takes a back seat.  This organization wouldn’t be as successful without the dedication of the leadership, but we can’t continue to grow without the active support of our members.  I hear more complaints (i.e. low pay, lack of respect, etc.)  in the profession than solutions.  If you aren’t happy about the direction your profession is taking, join ASCLS and help us do something about it.

 

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