Alana St. Pierre
“Professors are always helpful, and it's clear that they are invested in the future success of their students. The ability to rotate at clinical sites for a semester exposes students to real-world applications of what we investigate in the classroom.”
Why did you choose the Medical Laboratory Science program at the WVU School of Medicine?
I graduated from the School of Medicine in 2023 with my bachelor's degree in Immunology and Medical Microbiology. I later learned that I required additional certification and education requirements for the United States Air Force, specifically for my field. I had researched similar programs in the surrounding area, including West Virginia and Pennsylvania. WVU offered the fastest program track, and I was already familiar with the school. As a member of the service, I was also familiar with the specific benefits that made the program more affordable. WVU School of Medicine was my first choice in deciding graduate programs, and ultimately the only school I wanted to apply to.
What are your plans after graduation?
I commissioned through WVU's Air Force ROTC program when I earned my bachelor's in 2023. I was accepted into the Air Force as a biomedical laboratory officer, following successful completion of the MLS program and ASCP board exam.
How do you think the MLS program has prepared you for your future?
The MLS program provides extensive resources for student success. The faculty supply ample resources for review, studying and countless student laboratory hours. Professors are always helpful, and it's clear that they are invested in the future success of their students. The ability to rotate at clinical sites for a semester exposes students to real-world applications of what we investigate in the classroom. My favorite part of the program was working in the clinical rotation sites and gaining hospital experience.
What would you tell a prospective student about your experience in the MLS program?
I would tell prospective students that the MLS program at WVU is a wonderful and competitive program to consider. The academic work is challenging and requires consistent dedication to learning. However, the blend of classroom and clinical experience offers opportunities that translate into careers directly after graduation. While on my clinical site in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, I was offered a job four times in different departments of the laboratory. If it weren't for my military commitment, I would have accepted and stayed in the area. Additionally, the class size for the program is smaller and allows for ample one-on-one time with professors and advisors. There will never be an instance where professors won't respond or have time to interact with students.
What is your favorite memory from your time at WVU?
My favorite memory would be hiking along trails in the area, like Coopers Rock. I also liked being able to spend ample time outdoors on the Rail-Trail, for pleasure or running.
Which person at WVU has had the biggest impact on your college experience? How has that person helped you?
Michelle Witt, a teaching instructor in the Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology Department, has had one of the biggest impacts on my college experience. She has been a mentor for me during my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She has helped me work through some tough personal and academic situations with words of encouragement and wisdom.
As a soon-to-be graduate, what is your best advice for incoming students?
My best advice for incoming students is: yes, you can. A lot of students are afraid of doing too much while on campus due to academic constraints or other things. When I was an undergraduate, I participated in Air Force ROTC, Silver Wings and Blackbirds Club. We tend to get lost in stress and worry about big exams and projects, and we push our enjoyment to the side. I would tell any worried freshman this: if you take care of the little things, the big things take care of themselves. If you complete all those little assignments, the big ones aren’t so big. If you make the time during the days or mornings to hit the track, gym or participate in an organization, those little moments become the fun activities, bits of peace and lasting friends.
What will you miss most about WVU?
I love this state. I will miss the abundance of nature activities to do, including hiking. I met my fiancé here and adopted my dog, Wile E Coyote, from a shelter here. You often don’t realize where home is until it’s time to move on.