Convocation 2026: Morgan Jansma

Morgan Jansma

After discovering a passion for hands-on lab work during his first undergraduate degree at the U of A, Morgan Jansma entered the medical laboratory science program on a recommendation from his best friend. During his time on campus, he stayed heavily involved by collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to organize a massive hemorrhage protocol simulation for healthcare students. When he was not in the laboratory, Morgan fondly remembers spending his down time studying and socializing at the former John Scott Library.

Financial Support and Awards

Jason Lang Scholarship, Louise McKinney Scholarship, University of Alberta Community Builders Opportunities Award and University of Alberta Opportunities Continuing Award in Medical Laboratory Science.

What drew you to your area of study?

I found myself really drawn to hands-on work in the laboratory during the last two years of my first degree in immunology and infection. Just as I was finishing that degree, I was trying to figure out what to move on to next. My best friend who was in medical laboratory science (MLS) at the time recommended the program to me. I applied, entered the program and fell in love with it. I was able to use my passion for the science and apply it to providing care in the clinical laboratory.

What achievement, accomplishment or moment are you most proud of from your time in the program?

I think the accomplishment I was most proud of was organizing a massive hemorrhage protocol simulation. I did this as part of my work while on the Health Sciences Students' Association team, in collaboration with the amazing Health Sciences Education and Research Commons simulation team. I also had the privilege of guidance from different MLS faculty members contributing to this event. It felt like a great way to show nursing and MLS students a scenario that is (hopefully) not common in their field, exercise current skills and learn new ones.

What was your go-to spot at the U of A? Why?

I used to really like the John Scott Library as a place to study or hang out with friends, while it was still around.

What advice would you give to a student considering your area of study?

MLS is a difficult but rewarding program where you can apply knowledge and hands-on skills to provide care. If you are interested in healthcare but don't want as much patient interaction, MLS is a great option.

The MLS page on the U of A website has lots of info that you can use to apply. I would recommend taking the relevant biochemistry and physiology courses before the program, as the course load is already heavy.

What's next for you in your career and/or academic journey? What do you hope to accomplish?

I will be starting work as a medical laboratory technologist in a microbiology lab at Alberta Precision Laboratories in June. Once I get more experience, I hope to work on research in the field, contribute to interdisciplinary quality improvement initiatives or consider medical school.