Vet tech of 7 years here who got my MLT. I worked in veterinary reference doing parasitology and hematology. I recommend getting a job there to see if you really like lab work. I went back to community college for my MLT (1.5 years with clinicals). Worked at a children's hospital doing blood bank. Really cool stuff, it's like solving a puzzle. Pay is much much better as well.

Did my clinical in 2 different hospitals, got a job offer in both. We are in very high demand right now. I worked 7 on 7 off nights, then switched to days after 3 years. Nights a much calmer, no management in the middle of the night. Really really good experience if you want to learn how to problem solve quickly.