| Sumario: | Student connection to their future profession in medical laboratory science (MLS) is key for career readiness and ensuring high-quality professional practice. By encouraging a strong sense of identity and engagement with the profession, educators can better prepare students towards their careers as medical laboratory scientists. The aim of the study was to understand student perceptions of their career in MLS and to identify opportunities that will enhance their connection to the profession. The study was conducted in three phases. In Phase 1, an anonymous survey was distributed to undergraduate students enrolled in Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS) accredited programs to understand their perception of the profession. These results informed the development of a Phase 2 online learning module, designed to consolidate a deeper understanding of key areas of professional connection. Findings revealed that most participants were not members of professional organisations, were unaware of related continuing professional development (CPD) activities and expressed a need for a module featuring job advertisements, information about professional bodies and associated CPD activities. An open access online module was consequently developed. Evaluation of the effectiveness of the module occurred in Phase 3 through a second anonymous questionnaire and the feedback highlighted the effectiveness of the module in presenting information in a user-friendly platform. The module therefore successfully provided an accessible platform that consolidated key information, thereby enhancing students' sense of professional identity, connection and workforce integration.
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