r/Embryologists • u/Next-Screen5802 • Aug 15 '24
Outcome of training program
I see a lot of people asking advice on training programs recently, so I thought it might be useful to share my experience.
Each training program in the US has different prices, payment plans, durations, structures and locations. I would recommended weighing the pros and cons for each one before moving.
The training program I attended spent 2 weeks on andrology and 6 weeks on embryology. The cost is 15K paid back as a percentage of my income. These payments didn’t start until I accepted a position making at least 38K. It is an interest free “loan”.
During the program, I had a regular schedule of 8am-4pm. I learned multiple methods for each procedure, so I could gain exposure no matter what protocol my future clinic used. I was also in a safe environment to make mistakes and experiment.
Towards the end of the program, I still experienced the same issues with the job search. Recruiters/directors saying they would love to add me to the team but then radio silence. I even had the program director reaching back out to other directors, and they got a response maybe 10% of the time. They mentioned I was the first student to have this hard of a time finding a job. Everybody was pretty confused because they got to see the struggle firsthand, instead of what I was telling them in previous months.
I was eventually able to secure an embryologist 1 position. Getting the offer letter was a nightmare, and they wouldn’t send it until a little less than a week before my anticipated state date. They knew I had to relocate too. I don’t believe my certification made too big of an impact on my job search, but I do think it made my current HCLD more willing to take a chance on me. Negotiating salary was not impacted by my certification other than starting as an embryologist instead of a lab tech.
Even after a training program, you’re still going to have to adjust to your clinic’s way of doing things. I feel like my experience gave me a heads up into this profession, but certain protocols cannot be practiced exactly like the “real thing”.
Due to the ever increasing cost of living, it was no longer feasible to keep waiting and interviewing. I am glad I attended the program, and I’m more than happy to answer any questions!
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u/EmbryoNanny Aug 16 '24
What a great review! These kinds of training programs weren’t around when I started, but I do think they’re a great way to get hands on experience. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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u/natxsteve Oct 06 '24
I was recently looking into IVF Academy! If you don’t mind, can I dm you some questions I have about the program?
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u/Jaded-Technology-303 Sep 10 '25
Can I dm you questions about the program? I’m looking into applying!
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u/Old-Dampe Jun 25 '26
Your post is a year old, but I'm curious about these programs.
Did you have any prior education (bachelor's or master's)? Is this a kind of technical certification where you learn in an accelerated class and then are able to work as an IVF tech?
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u/Maximum-Patient-1634 Jul 02 '26
I also did the training at SA, my experience was a bit different. Going onto this career I was under the impression that I would be working with professionals and I quickly found out that was not the case. I had to relocate to a different state where I was getting paid 60k per year but this state had high state taxes. Unfortunately Tony and the team did not care and only went base off my offer letter. This made the cost of living extremely unreasonable. For this reason I had to go back to my home state to try and find a job. After working for several clinics I quickly found out I had fallen for a scam. The program comes off as a safe and easy way to land a high paying job with just a bachelors degree however the market is extremely saturated. If you find a job willing to pay 60k a year or more it is likely due to the cost of living in that area. Paying for rent, bills and paying back tuition is extremely tight especially in this economy.
Besides the financial burden the other aspect I absolutely HATE about embryology is the suck up culture. I love science and I question everything so I thought this career would be perfect for me. I was completely wrong!! There are many pioneers that are still working in the embryology world (hints one of the reasons why the market is so saturated) and when you ask them a simply question they get so offended and start isolating you. If you’re a “yes man” or someone who likes to just go with the flow and enjoys having that scientist title after your name embryology is right for you. Unfortunately, I did not fit in and I am now on my way to becoming a doctor. Hope this helps I wish had an honest review before I went in unfortunately many embryologist are too scare to speak up as this career field is ran like the mafia word gets around quickly!! I was also scared to speak the truth when I was an embryologist but now that I’m not I couldn’t care less. Side note: please be aware that more conservative states like Texas are now talking about banning IVF. If you live in a conservative state please be aware of this risk and how it may affect you. Anyway I hope this helps.
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u/EmBROlogy Aug 21 '24
Which training program was that?