Ivy Fu

Medical Laboratory Scientist, Surgical Pathology Unit, North Shore Hospital
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science

The hands-on experience and support throughout her learning journey were highlights of her time at AUT, says Ivy Fu who studied a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science, specialising in histology and haematology.

“We had plenty of opportunities to learn and practise in the university laboratories, which really helped us build our skills and confidence, and prepared us for clinical placements. The smaller class sizes also meant we had a closer connection with our lecturers, creating a supportive environment where we felt comfortable asking questions.

“My clinical placements played an important role in shaping my future goals. I had the opportunity to complete my histology placement at the Surgical Pathology Unit at North Shore Hospital and my haematology placement at LabPlus at Auckland City Hospital. It was my first time working in a real laboratory. Through these placements, I was able to experience different lab environments, dynamics and workflows. My time at North Shore Hospital consolidated my interest in a career in histology. These experiences were invaluable and helped me gain a clearer idea of what I wanted to do.”

Another highpoint for her was being a teaching assistant for a first-year histology class.

“It was a great experience where I got to help other students while reinforcing my own knowledge. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me see where I was lacking and where I could grow. I started to see myself as someone who could take on more responsibility. I also became more confident, not just in the subject but also in myself. This experience is something I look back on as a really meaningful part of my time at AUT.”

Making a positive impact
Since completing her studies in 2024, Ivy now enjoys working as a medical laboratory scientist in histology.

“My job mainly involves preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination. This includes tasks like grossing, tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, immunohistochemistry and quality checking. I like to think of us as the artists in the laboratory who help pathologists see the microscopic details of tissue. It’s our job to make sure specific tissue structures are highlighted and any abnormalities can be identified, so patients can receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.

“What I enjoy most about being a medical laboratory scientist is knowing that my work helps people. When I first learned about this profession, I was surprised by how little recognition medical laboratory scientists receive, despite our critical role in patient care. Medical laboratory scientists are the backstage crew of a production. We may not be in the spotlight, but without us the show can’t go on. While we don’t work directly with patients, our effort, knowledge, professionalism and responsibility directly impact their diagnosis and treatment.”

She says her degree prepared her well for the career she has today.

“What helped me the most was the amount of practical training I received at AUT. The university laboratory had equipment like a microtome, embedding centre and cryostat, and all the students were given plenty of time and opportunities to practise on them. I felt very well prepared when I started my clinical placement. The skills I developed and sharpened at AUT not only helped me complete my placement successfully but also helped me blend into my current job really well and contribute confidently to the team.”

Advice for other students
Ivy has some great advice for other students who are thinking about their own university journey.

“Choose what you love, even when people around you have different opinions. At the end of the day, your happiness is the most important. Don’t be afraid to make changes. For example, before I came to AUT I was a pre-med student, preparing to apply for a Bachelor of Pharmacy, when I realised that this wasn’t the right path for me, and that I preferred human anatomy, physiology and working in a lab environment.

“I know changes in life can be very scary and overwhelming, but sometimes they lead you to something better. Everything you learn and experience will shape you into the person you’re meant to become. Trust yourself, be resilient and keep moving forward. Things may not always go as planned, but that’s okay, you’ll figure it out along the way.”

There’s plenty of help if you need it while you’re at AUT, she adds.

“All the lecturers and teaching assistants I met at AUT were very friendly and approachable. My histology lecturer, Sharita Meharry, made histology really interesting and helped me develop a strong interest in that area. My haematology lecturer, Dr Jill Meyer, was always happy to answer my questions outside of class. Her visit during my clinical placement was very encouraging and helped motivate me through my final year. Their support meant a lot to me.”