S3Ep3: Regional Medical Laboratory Scientists

So, you like your job as a medical laboratory professional, but you’re restless. You have dreams of a bigger life. One that allows you to serve others and satisfy your wanderlust. 

You might consider becoming a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist with the US State Department, a role that requires an affinity for travel, a passion for service, and a well-rounded background on the bench. 

On this episode of Inside the Lab, our host, Ms. Kelly Swails, is joined byMs. Danielle Forester, MLS(ASCP)CM, former Microbiology Specialist at Quest Diagnostics and current RMLS in Beijing, China, Mr. Dave Keddington, MLS(ASCP)CM, former Technical Supervisor at ARUP Laboratories and current RMLS in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Ms. Stacy Deckard, MLS(ASCP)CM, former Medical Technologist at Carle Foundation Hospital and current RMLS in New Delhi, India, to share their experiences working with the Foreign Service as Regional Medical Laboratory Scientists. 

Our panelists discuss the pros and cons of working as an RMLS, describing how they serve the diplomatic community, embassy staff and their local communities. They explore how being a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist impacts work-life balance and explain how the compensation package compares to working in a lab in the US. Listen in for advice on applying to be a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist and learn how becoming an RMLS gives you the opportunity to experience other cultures firsthand and expand your worldview. 

Topics Covered 
· How each of our panelists found out about working with the Foreign Service and what prompted them to apply
· How a well-rounded background and experience in training prepares you to work as an RMLS with the Foreign Service
· How RMLSs serve the diplomatic community, embassy staff and their local community
· What Ms. Forester, Mr. Keddington & Ms. Deckard like best about working as a Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist
· The most challenging aspects of working as an RMLS for the US State Department
· How RMLSs and their families benefit from experiencing other cultures firsthand and expanding their worldview
· How being an RMLS impacts your social life, personal travel and work-life balance
· What it’s like for the family members of Regional Medical Laboratory Scientists
· How the compensation package for an RMLS compares to working in a lab in the US
· Advice to anyone applying to be an RMLS in the Foreign Service 

Connect with ASCP
ASCP
ASCP on Facebook
ASCP on Instagram
ASCP on Twitter 

Connect with Mr. Keddington
Mr. Keddington on LinkedIn

Connect with Ms. Deckard
Ms. Deckard on LinkedIn 

Connect with Ms. Swails
Ms. Swails on Twitter 

Resources
USAJOBS
CAP Inspector Tools and Training
Affinity Groups at the US State Department
Inside the Lab in the ASCP Store