Should I Apply for a Lab Job Before Starting CLS Program?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision of whether to apply for a lab job before starting a Clinical Lab Science (CLS) program. Participants explore the implications of job commitment and honesty during the application and interview process, considering the balance between current job satisfaction and future educational commitments.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that being upfront about future commitments during the interview process is important to avoid potential issues with references later on.
  • Another participant agrees, recommending that the job seeker be honest in their cover letter or initial contact with the employer.
  • Some participants propose that employers may expect transient commitments from young applicants and may be more understanding than anticipated.
  • There is a suggestion that the job seeker could frame their situation positively, indicating flexibility in hours and the possibility of a part-time role during the school year.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of honesty regarding future commitments, though there is no consensus on the best way to approach the situation in terms of timing and presentation.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying opinions on the potential impact of honesty on job prospects, reflecting uncertainty about employer expectations and the nature of entry-level positions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering applying for jobs while pursuing further education, particularly in the field of clinical lab science or similar areas.

CRichard
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Hello everyone. I have a quick question, not really about any career field but about a specific issue in job interviews. I received my bachelor’s degree in biology in 2013, but plan to go back to school in the fall to study clinical lab science, with the goal of working in a hospital lab. Right now, I’m working part-time and taking 2 classes - one prerequisite for the CLS program and one bio lab that I took to review lab techniques. Although my part-time job is at a lab, I don’t have a lot of responsibility there, and also don’t really enjoy some of the working conditions. Recently I looked at my school’s career website, and saw a posting for an interesting lab position that’s close by. The job requirements include many of the techniques that I did in my lab this semester. It looks very interesting and is full-time, which I would be able to do soon as my classes are over next week. My problem is that I am starting the CLS program in the fall and won’t be able to work then. Should I submit a resume? If I do, and do get an interview there, should I mention that I would be leaving in the fall, or not mention it? I was thinking that mentioning it would hurt my chances of getting the position. I would probably be able to increase my hours at my current job once school is over and take on more responsibility. However, I was thinking I might like a fresh start if I could, since I don’t enjoy some of the working conditions, and also this job isn’t as related to CLS as the other job. Thanks for any input.
 
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During the interview process is usually the right place to bring up the term of commitment, if the employer has not already advertised it.

Personally I think it's best to be forward with your intensions and goals. Winning the job on a false statement (or purposeful omission) is the kind of thing that could come back to haunt you if you need a reference later on. As well, I suspect that most people hiring for an entrance-level lab position will be well aware of the transient nature of young applicants. It's a safe bet they will be looking out for candidates who may not want to offer the kind of commitment they want. What that means is that if you try to hide it, they're likely to spot it.

Be up front, but you could put a positive spin on it. As if they are flexible with the hours. Maybe it could turn into a part-time gig during the school year.
 
Agree with Choppy. Be honest about your situation. I'd even suggest being up front in a cover letter, or contacting someone to speak about them.

Who knows, you may find they have another temporary job open - or even that they could open one - that would suit you well.
 
Thanks for the responses! I'll follow your suggestions and be upfront and honest about my situation. Thanks again.
 

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