WellSpan Health offers a paid summer externship at select WellSpan Hospital Laboratories to introduce students to the field of Medical Laboratory Science (MLS). This competitive program provides students with valuable hands-on experience and insights into a hospital clinical laboratory as a potential career path.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be enrolled in a baccalaureate program at a college/university or have a bachelor’s and plan to apply to our MLS program.
- Preference is given to students majoring in Medical Laboratory Science (Medical Technology).
- Students in other laboratory-related fields are also encouraged to apply.
Key Details
- Application Period: January 1st - March 8th of each year
- Program Duration: Commitment to at least 11 weeks during the summer (May, June, July, August), typically 40 hours per week. Part-time and weekend-only positions may also be available.
- Location: WellSpan laboratories across the system.
Program Goals
The program is designed to:
- Develop and maintain an interest in hospital clinical laboratories as a career option.
- Familiarize students with the roles of medical laboratory scientists and other laboratory professionals.
- Build laboratory skills prior to the clinical year of training for MLS majors.
Areas of Opportunity
Externs may work in:
- Anatomic Pathology
- Blood Bank
- Central Processing or Core Lab (Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis)
- Clinical Microbiology
- Donor Center
Externs will have a primary assignment in one division but will also gain exposure to other areas of the laboratory during their externship as time allows.
Benefits
- Pay: The extern position is a paid role within WellSpan’s Department of Laboratory Services.
- Hands-On Lab Experience: Gain valuable lab skills as an employee of WellSpan Health.
- Educational Opportunities: Interact with laboratory managers and staff to review experiences, participate in supplemental activities, and discuss career goals.
Work Schedule
- Your schedule will be coordinated with the manager of your assigned laboratory division.
- Vacations should generally be planned before or after the externship. However, many departments offer flexibility, allowing for a week off or a long weekend during the externship, provided the full 11 weeks of work are completed.
- Flexible assignment options, such as part-time or weekend-only schedules, may be available depending on departmental needs.
Housing
- Housing is the responsibility of the extern. No on-campus housing is provided.
Application Process
Applications for the summer will be accepted starting January 1st through March 8th each year.
To apply, submit your application here: WellSpan Health Summer Laboratory Externship Program – Fill out form
If you have questions or would like to submit your resume, please reach out via email to MLSprogram@wellspan.org
Start your journey into the exciting and rewarding field of medical laboratory science with WellSpan Health.
