Emma had been working at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital and Healthcare Center in Newberry, Michigan as a phlebotomist for two years when her employer asked her if she wanted to go back to school.  

NTC had just launched the distance learning option for the medical laboratory technician program. This option allows students to earn their degree by completing coursework online and performing lab work at a clinical site in a community near them. Because Emma already worked in a hospital, she had the support and ability to complete the lab portions of the course right there.  

“Our MLT distance learning program was built on the belief that geography should never be a barrier to education,” said Cory Sullivan, program director for NTC’s medical laboratory technician and phlebotomy programs. “By reaching underserved communities, we're not only opening doors for aspiring laboratorians, but we're also helping to fill critical workforce shortages across the country." 

Emma made the decision to take the leap and go back to school. She enrolled in the program and joined the first cohort of distance learning students in the fall of 2023.  

“The program was just starting out, but it was so well put together,” she said. “All of the instructors were so nice. I never had an issue getting in touch with them, and they make it well known that they want you to do your best.”  

Emma was born and raised in the Upper Peninsula, and although she left for a while for college, she always knew she wanted to return. She originally planned to become a nurse but quickly discovered it was not for her. Her mom was the one who suggested she consider the lab work side of healthcare.  

“I ended up loving it and could see myself doing it,” Emma said. “Phlebotomy is a lot of patient interactions, and I love talking to them.”  

When her boss offered her the opportunity to go back to school, she decided she wanted to be able to do the laboratory work side of the job as well. Because of the distance learning option, she was able to continue working while going to school. Without NTC’s program, the only other path to becoming a laboratory technician was an in-person program at a university, which would not have allowed her to keep her job.  

After two years in the program, Emma said she feels prepared to work on her own and is grateful for how much she has learned in the program.  

Emma’s journey reflects the goal of the distance learning program: to eliminate barriers and extend opportunities for students, wherever they are.  

"Emma, one of the students in our very first distance learning cohort, is a true testament to the success of this program,” Cory said. “Her dedication, passion for the laboratory profession, and commitment to excellence show that when you remove barriers to education, remarkable things can happen. She's proof that this model works - and that we're reaching the right people in the right places." 

Now, with her new degree, Emma will be able to continue working in the same hospital and serving the community she loves. 

“If you’re on the fence about this program, I feel like you’re not going to find a better one,” she said. “I feel like this was the best decision I could have made.”