Deborah Josko, PhD, SHRP '05, associate professor, SHRP Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, says, "I have spent 17 years of my life attending college part-time, going from an associate degree to a bachelor's, master's and finally my PhD just last year. This was all accomplished while working full-time. It was a long road and there were several times along the way when I was so exhausted from the pace I was keeping that I wanted to quit school. Fortunately, I had two professors who refused to let me give up. They talked to me, encouraged me not to quit and to stay focused on my goals. Because of these two caring teachers, I continued and ultimately went on to obtain my doctorate. I have been a professor at UMDNJ for almost 10 years and want to influence and encourage my students just as my professors did for me. Having a supportive mentor in one's life during college can make all the difference. I have such joy and admiration on graduation day when I see my students march on stage and receive their diplomas. I know how hard they have worked to achieve their goals. As Ana said so nicely, 'It is so worth everything,' for I too have found my true calling!"

Born in the Philippines, her family immigrated to Jersey City in 1992. She won not one but two scholarships from national organizations representing lab scientists as well as the 2006 UMDNJ-SHRP Clinical Excellence Award. And she hasn’t even begun graduate work yet. Like her mentor who was always encouraged by teachers to go further in her education, this student is passionate about learning.

My Degree: A bachelor of science in medical laboratory science from the School of Health Related Professions and Rutgers University, Class of 2006

Unforgettable Moment: At the end of a long day in a clinical rotation after I had drawn blood from 30 to 40 patients and the workload never slowed or stopped, I lay down on my bed — my back and feet aching — and thought: This is so worth everything. I have found my true calling.

Research Interest: Along with three classmates, I helped to validate a new instrument, the Vitek 2, which can quickly identify infections and patients’ susceptibility to the antibacterial agents that kill them. This is my very first project, which is why I’m so passionate about it. We looked at lots of data and studied many panels of organisms for the manufacturer. I understand that these mini-research projects weren’t always required at the baccalaureate level, but they are considered important here at UMDNJ now. Not only did we collect the data but we also presented it on SHRP Poster Day, an annual event during which students share the results of their research efforts.

Big Professional Milestone: When my professor asked me to draw blood from an AIDS patient in a phlebotomy clinical rotation. I was very nervous but calmed myself and followed procedures. Everything turned out fine.

Saddest Day: When I ruined my 4.0 average with a B in immunohematology.

Memorable Patient: He was really muscular and his veins were easy to see. We were in a phlebotomy outpatient clinic and I was about to pierce the needle into his arm when he asked nervously, “Do you know what you’re doing?” I answered resolutely, “Yes sir.”

My Dream: To publish my own research, and one day, to establish a center of excellence in laboratory science. I feel so confident and ready for the future because of UMDNJ’s wonderful and encouraging environment.

  My story. Our university.