The ASCLS-Michigan Student Symposium is a one-day professional development event designed specifically for medical laboratory science students who are preparing to transition from the classroom to the clinical laboratory. In-person lunch and spotlight discussions are complimentary for all in-person mock exam participants. Online registration for 2026 is open!

Start the day by taking a comprehensive mock MLS-level certification exam* using a computerized platform. This experience allows students to assess exam readiness, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and gain confidence taking a computer-based exam in a low-stakes testing environment.

Prizes are awarded for the top three individual exam scores and the top three team exam scores! Winners will be announced during the award ceremony at the ASCLS-Michigan Annual Conference on Monday, April 13, 2026 and will be given a certificate and a monetary prize (amount based on number of participants).

*For students that are not able to attend in person, students may still register and take the mock exam in a proctored setting at their own facility. Lunch and spotlight discussions will be for live, in-person registrants only.

Lunch with the Board of Directors

Enjoy an informal lunch with members of the Board of Directors, offering a unique opportunity to learn about leadership and professional involvement, ask questions about career paths and the profession, and make new connections with experienced laboratory professionals.

Spotlight Discussions

In the afternoon, students will be able to choose mini roundtable sessions focused on career-related topics relevant to new and future medical laboratory professionals. These small-group discussions are interactive and designed to encourage dialogue, questions, and shared experiences.

Session topics for 2026 are yet to be announced. Example topics based on past years include:

• Interpreting benefits packages
• Preparing for your first MLS job
• Resume building and interview tips
• Career pathways in the clinical laboratory
• Interpreting paystubs
• Dealing with difficult people
• Starting points for filing taxes
• Communicating effectively with other healthcare providers
• Budgeting
• Identifying mentorship opportunities
• Using social media professionally

Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort
6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd, Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

Register online by February 27, 2026. Payment must be received by March 13, 2026 to secure your spot.

• Individual payments may be made by credit card at time of registration or by check following registration (instructions and mailing address included in registration process).
• Group payment may be made by first having each member of the group register online, selecting "Generate invoice for cash/check." Following completion of all registrations, email exec@ascls-michigan.org with the names of all registrants to be included in group invoice. A group invoice will be sent, with options to pay by credit card or by check.