Upon graduating from Ohio State last fall with her Bachelor of Science in Biology, Ohio State Marion alumna and Mount Gilead, Ohio native Kaitlynn Pfeifer parlayed her degree into an opportunity to study invitro fertilization as a career through her recent admission to ARTLAB in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
ARTLAB is a mock in vitro fertilization training lab designed to provide daily, hands-on embryology training. The program covers all laboratory procedures involved in embryology, fully preparing individuals who aspire to build a career in this field.
Pfiefer shared that she discovered her next career step, not on a job site, career fair, or searching schools, but through the social media platform TikTok.
“I discovered ARTLAB through social media, specifically TikTok. While scrolling, I came across @alease_the_embryologist, who shares advice, encouragement, and insights about the IVF process. She also introduced her audience to ARTLAB, which piqued my interest,” said Pfeifer.
According to Pfeifer, the ability to attend ARTLAB gained a great deal of traction when she received two generous scholarships to continue her education toward her goal of becoming an IVF specialist.
“I was fortunate to receive two generous scholarships,” said Pfeifer. “The first was the Schwarz Family Foundation Scholarship Program, awarded to children of employees at eligible companies, such as The Royal Group, located in Marion, Ohio, where my father has been a long-term employee. This scholarship totaled $10,000. The second scholarship was $2,500 Subway Fresh Start Scholarship from the Subway Cares Foundation, awarded to Subway employees pursuing higher education,” Pfeifer added.
Pfeifer recalled always being drawn to careers in the medical field, considering paths like pediatrics, obstetrics, and psychology, which changed during her last year of high school.
“During my senior year of high school,” Pfeifer explained, “I developed a strong curiosity about embryology and in vitro fertilization. I wanted a career where I could bring happiness and hope to others, and IVF does that by helping individuals and couples overcome infertility.”
IVF is Pfeifer’s preferred career area for a host of reasons.
“The demand for IVF procedures has significantly increased in recent years due to advancements in technology, improved accessibility, affordability, and evolving family planning,” said Pfeifer.
“This means there is a growing need for trained embryologists. Typically, fertility clinics require a bachelor’s degree in a biological field, with training lasting two to five years.
“By attending ARTLAB,” she explained, “I can fast-track this training in just ten weeks. Additionally, ARTLAB offers job placement assistance which will make me a strong candidate for positions in the field.”
“Working in a fertility clinic aligns perfectly with my aspirations,” said Pfeifer. “I will find immense fulfillment in helping individuals and families achieve their dreams of parenthood. Knowing that I play a role in such a meaningful journey will always inspire me.”
Beyond the strong background in biology, which is one of the complete Ohio State majors offered at Ohio State Marion, Pfeifer feels the campus has prepared her in other unique ways.
“The most valuable aspect of attending Ohio State at Marion has been the strong connections I have built with peers and professors,” said Pfeifer. “Their support has been invaluable. While the coursework was challenging,” she explained, “It provided me with the knowledge and skills I need to confidently enter my career field.”
Ultimately Pfeifer explained how the size and personal connections she was able to make at Ohio State’s regional campus in Marion, Ohio along with having earned a degree from one of the most respected universities in the country was the perfect combination to launch what will one day be a successful career helping others.
“Choosing The Ohio State University at Marion was an easy decision. Coming from a small town where community is essential,” she said. “I appreciated the close-knit atmosphere of this campus. From the very first day, it felt like a second home.”
Pfeifer now takes her degree and a sense of belonging to ARTLAB in North Carolina and knows her Ohio State education brings recognition and a tradition of academic excellence that will propel them into the next chapter of their life.
“Ohio State’s culture is incredibly unique. No matter where you go- a grocery store, a restaurant, or even out of state- you will encounter the pride and excitement people feel about being part of Ohio State,” said Pfeifer. “This culture extends even to the regional campuses. At Ohio State Marion, there is a palpable sense of pride in being part of such a well-known and respected university.”
Launching a career path began with inspiration as a high school student in Mount Gilead, Ohio, coupled with access to expert faculty and a degree from one of the world’s most respected research and teaching universities in the country, and finally culminating in a focused fast track training program in Rocky Mount, NC program that will allow Pfeifer to realize her eventual dream of helping young families achieve their “dream of parenthood”.