Sidney Stanerson

Q: Where are you from? (city, state) 

A: Conroy, Iowa 

Q: Why did you choose Kirkwood? 

A: I already had a bachelor’s degree from University of Iowa in Interdepartmental Sciences-Health Sciences. However, the job that I wanted to pursue required a certain degree and certification. When I was looking at Medical Lab Tech programs, Kirkwood’s program was the only one that appealed to me. It was only a two-year program and it was close to home. When I went to the program conference, I knew I was making the right decision to go here.  

Q: What is your major and how did you choose it? 

A: My major is Medical Laboratory Technology. My mother is the reason why I went into the health science field. When I was a freshman in high school, my mother was diagnosed with brain cancer (October 2009). For me to cope with the news, I immersed myself in every science class my high school had to offered so I could learn more about her condition. I ended up falling in love with health science and wanted to pursue a career in this field. I began my college career at the University of Iowa, however, my degree from the University of Iowa did not meet the requirements for a Medical Lab Tech position. I researched what degree I needed and where I could obtain one and that is when I stumbled upon Kirkwood’s Medical Laboratory Technology program. 

Q:  What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood?  

A: I have a few proud moments at Kirkwood. My proudest moment at Kirkwood would be when I made the Dean’s list four semesters in a row. When I get the ‘Congratulations’ card in the mail for making the Dean’s list it makes me proud because it shows that my hard work is paying off. Another proud moment is when I became a member of the Honor Society and when I received the Outstanding Student award.  

Q: What are your plans after Kirkwood? 

A: My plan after I graduate from Kirkwood is to take the MLT (ASCP) board of certification exam and get a job as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT). Once I have gained enough experience as an MLT, I will be able to take the MLS (ASCP) certification exam to become a Medical Laboratory Scientist which will open up management opportunities in my field.  

Q: What inspires or motivates you? 

A: What motivates me is my parents. When I graduated from the University of Iowa, I was unable to get job as a MLT since my degree did not meet the requirements. I was frustrated that I spent all this time and money on a degree that could not help me land my dream job. Instead of going back to school right after I graduated from the University of Iowa, I started working at ACT the testing company. I worked at ACT for about two years while I debated on going back to school. My parents are the ones who encouraged me to go back to school. My father even helped me research different programs throughout Iowa to see which one would work for me. My parents motivate me to continue working hard and achieving my goals no matter what life throws at you. I honestly do not know where I would be if it was not for their support and encouragement. 

Q: Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood – hobbies, family, other interests, etc. 

A: I enjoy spending most of my time with my family and friends. Some of my favorite activities include traveling, canoeing, boating, watching movies, and going to concerts. Some of my favorite places I have visited are Salem, MA; New Orleans, LA; Colorado Springs, CO; Panama City Beach, FL; and St Lucia, South Africa. When my house is not filled with family and friends, I enjoy painting, reading books outdoors, and gardening.  

Q: What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you? 

A: To me, being named an Outstanding Student means all the late nights studying, stressing over deadlines, and reading textbooks for hours was not all for nothing. It makes me feel like all of my hard work is being recognized which encourages me to keep working hard to achieve my goals.