Dear Dr. Penno:

First, permit me to thank you for encouraging me, and for your support throughout my endeavors to succeed in this field. Thank you again for your patience while I gathered my thoughts and composed this letter. In this letter, not only will I address how I became interested in becoming a laboratory technician, but also acknowledge those people who have most inspired and encouraged me along the way.
As I reflect on how I became interested in bio-technology, there were many influences on that "road". I remember deciding to go back to school and earn a degree. When I began working for Johns Hopkins, in housekeeping, I found out that I could pursue a degree at JHU. Although I was considering medicine, I was not certain what avenue to take; there are so many different specialties. Every "path" seemed to lead to laboratory technology. The people who most influenced and inspired me were involved in bio-technology. Each time I encountered anyone involved in the field, my desire to know more grew. My inquiries were answered with more than words. Eventually, I was invited to view, and later, participate in, some lab procedures. I knew then, the more I was shown, the more I wanted, needed, to learn.
As I mentioned earlier, there were a lot of people who I will "hold responsible" for helping me. Several of them I met while working in the housekeeping department. One them is my friend, Ted Pierson, who took me into the lab because it was easier for him to show me than explain (I think he thought I must have been a visual learner.). Sometimes, I would go to the lab on Saturday and visit with Ted, and learn more. There was also Chris, who answered a multitude of questions. And Sue, who allowed me to dissect a mouse. (Awesome!!) Then there is Karen, who answered unending questions about DNA and RNA. Karen remembered my inquisitiveness and forwarded an application to me for the Bio-Tech Institute. I applied, took the TEST, and passed (whew! !)! There's also you, Dr. Penno, who as I said before encouraged and inspired me, not only with words, but also actions. My mother always told me, "Don't give up just because things get tough, keep going". And then my family, who put up with me through the application, selection, and interview process ( I drove them crazy.)
While taking the required classes, I realized that there was so much more to know about bio-technology. Sometimes it seemed like I couldn't make it. It was difficult attending class early in the morning, working the late shift, and not getting home until the wee hours of the morning. But, I knew this is what I wanted to do, my heart's desire. Everything had been placed on this road for me. There was no way I could stop pursuing my dream. At times it is hard to believe that everything is falling into place the way it has. But, this is reality, and it is a joyous feeling to realize my dreams.

Sheila

Laboratory Technician
Morgan State University

Sheila is successfully employed at Morgan State University as a laboratory technician.