Starting a new life as a Filipino medical technologist in the US is both exciting and nerve-wracking. After all the hard work back in the Philippines—studying, getting certified, and finally securing a job abroad—you’ve made it. But the first year in this foreign land comes with its own set of challenges. You’re adjusting not just to a new work environment, but to a whole new culture. It can feel overwhelming at times, but it’s also a year of immense growth. Let me share some practical advice on how you can not only survive but thrive in your first year as a Med Tech in the USA.
One of the first things you’ll notice is how different the healthcare system is in the US compared to what we’re used to in the Philippines. Everything here is more structured, and they emphasize patient-centered care. Although, as medical technologists, we don’t interact directly with patients as much, we still play a crucial role in making sure that the tests are accurate and timely. You’ll soon find out that even behind the scenes, your contribution is valued. So, take some time to understand the system and how your work fits into the bigger picture. The learning curve might be steep, but your training has prepared you for this.
When I arrived here, one of the biggest adjustments was the use of electronic health records (EHR). In the Philippines, we did have some digital systems, but here in the US, almost everything is digitized. You’ll be spending quite a bit of time navigating through EHR systems, entering results, and reviewing patient histories. It may seem confusing at first, but don’t worry—you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Just be patient with yourself, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if something’s unclear.
Now, about certifications. We all know that before landing a job in the US, we’re already ASCP certified—it’s a requirement to even apply for most Med Tech positions here. So, you don’t have to worry about taking the certification exam again. The real challenge is using your skills and knowledge in a new environment. Even if you’re confident in your expertise, working in a different country can feel intimidating at first. The lab equipment might be more advanced, and you might be working with people from different cultures. But don’t let that shake your confidence. Remember, you were hired for a reason. The key is to adapt and be open to learning new things.
One thing that really helped me adjust was building relationships with my coworkers. Here in the US, the work environment can be a bit different. People are generally friendly, but there’s also a professional distance that you might not be used to coming from a warm, close-knit Filipino culture. It’s okay to take your time getting to know people. Over time, you’ll find that they appreciate your hard work and dedication. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Americans value collaboration and teamwork, so if you’re ever unsure about something, it’s perfectly okay to ask.
I have to say, the first few months can feel pretty lonely, especially if you’re far from family. Homesickness is real, and there’s no shame in feeling it. What helped me a lot was connecting with fellow Filipinos. You’ll be surprised at how many Pinoys are working in healthcare here. Try to reach out through Filipino organizations or even online groups—there are plenty of communities on Facebook or other platforms where you can meet kababayans going through the same experience. Having people who understand what you’re going through makes a big difference.
Another thing that kept me grounded was staying connected to my faith. As a Christian, I found that leaning on God during difficult moments helped me stay strong. There are going to be days when work feels overwhelming, and it’s during those times that prayer has been my greatest comfort. Whether it’s praying before work or reading Scripture during a break, I find that it gives me the peace and strength I need to keep going. And if you can find a local church or a Christian community to join, even better. It’s a great way to meet new people and stay spiritually connected.
But while it’s essential to stay grounded in your faith and community, there are practical struggles you’ll need to be mindful of too—especially when it comes to managing finances. In the first year, it’s easy to fall into some traps because you’ll finally have that financial freedom you’ve always dreamed of. But here’s the thing: just because you have the money now doesn’t mean you should start spending it carelessly.
One common struggle that many new immigrants face is falling into credit card debt. Credit cards can feel like free money, and in the US, they’re easily accessible. You might think it’s harmless to swipe for a few things here and there, but those small purchases can quickly add up. Before you know it, you’re paying high-interest fees on things you probably didn’t need in the first place. My advice? Be disciplined with your spending. Use credit cards only for necessities and make sure to pay the full balance each month. If you start with good financial habits early on, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress in the future.
Another temptation is to spend on unnecessary travels. It’s understandable—you’re in a new country, and there’s so much to explore! While it’s great to take a break and see new places, don’t feel pressured to travel all the time just because others are doing it. Keep in mind that traveling can be expensive, and it’s easy to go overboard. Set a budget for leisure activities and prioritize saving, especially during your first year. There will be plenty of time to explore later on, once you’ve settled into your new life.
And let’s talk about buying things you don’t need. Once the paychecks start rolling in, it’s tempting to treat yourself. You might feel like you deserve that new gadget or those fancy clothes because you’ve worked hard to get here. While it’s fine to reward yourself occasionally, be careful not to make impulsive purchases. Ask yourself if you really need something before buying it. Remember that you’re in the US not just to earn, but to build a stable future—for yourself and often for your family back home. Keeping your financial priorities in check will help you avoid the regret of spending on things that don’t really matter.
Speaking of financial priorities, saving should be at the top of your list. One of the best things you can do during your first year is to establish a good savings habit. Open a savings account, set aside a portion of each paycheck, and build an emergency fund. You never know when unexpected expenses might come up, and having that financial cushion will give you peace of mind. It’s also important to think about long-term goals like retirement savings or investing. The earlier you start, the better.
While you’re balancing your finances, don’t forget to take care of yourself physically and mentally. The workload here can be demanding, and it’s easy to burn out if you’re not careful. Make sure you’re taking breaks when you need them. On your days off, do something that relaxes you, whether it’s exploring the area, trying out new hobbies, or even just resting at home. It’s important to maintain a balance between work and personal life, especially in the first year when everything still feels new.
It’s also a good idea to plan ahead for your career. While you’re settling into your new job, start thinking about your long-term goals. The US offers a lot of opportunities for career growth, and there’s always something new to learn. You might want to consider specializing in a particular area of medical technology in the future. Specializations in molecular biology, blood banking, or microbiology, for example, can open up more advanced roles with higher pay. Continuous education is key here, so always keep an eye out for learning opportunities or training programs.
Now, don’t forget the importance of rest and recharging, especially when work becomes demanding. I’ve learned that it’s easy to push yourself too hard, trying to prove that you can handle the job, but there’s no shame in stepping back when you need to. Taking time for yourself is important for your long-term success. And when you do take that well-deserved break, why not explore the beauty of your new surroundings? The US is vast, and there’s always something new to see. Whether it’s a weekend trip to a nearby park or a visit to a new city, it’s a great way to recharge and remind yourself that you’re living a new adventure.
And speaking of adventures, don’t forget to celebrate your achievements along the way. Getting through the first year in the US as a medical technologist is no small feat. Every milestone you reach—whether it’s mastering a new test, building strong relationships with coworkers, or simply adjusting to your new home—is worth celebrating. You’ve worked so hard to get here, and God has been faithful in bringing you this far. Trust that He will continue to guide you as you grow in your career and in your new life abroad.
In the end, thriving in your first year as a Pinoy Med Tech in the US isn’t just about work. It’s about finding balance, staying connected to your roots, managing your finances wisely, and embracing the journey. You’ve already overcome so much to get here—this is just the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities, challenges, and growth. Stay strong, trust in God, and take each day as it comes. Before you know it, you’ll look back and see just how far you’ve come.
