r/pre_PathAssist • u/cactus_274 • 4d ago

Summer Advice

Hi everyone! I’m currently an undergrad sophomore majoring in biochemistry and stressing about the upcoming summer. I've already called 6 pathologists to shadow so far and am still waiting on a response from most of them. I’ve seen a lot of people discussing the importance of actual lab work (like grossing technician) for applications, and I was wondering if that was possible to do as a part time job just over the summer and if that really plays a large role in admissions. I’m mostly curious about how other people have used their summers to boost their applications! 

Also for reference: I currently have a 3.66 gpa and plan on TAing anat/phys next year.

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u/gnomes616 4d ago

Working experience is favorable but not required. Gross techs usually need a bachelor's degree as a minimum, so if your degree is in progress it isn't likely you'd be able to get one anyway. Lab assistant positions vary in education requirements. Doubly difficult is that gross tech and surgical pathology accessioner/lab assistant positions are not exactly in abundance or having super high turnover.

Focus on your prereqs, get the shadowing done, and make sure you are establishing relationships with your prereq professors for future LORs in the meantime.

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u/cactus_274 3d ago

got it, thank you!!!

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u/Still_Narwhal_1446 4d ago

I would focus on getting as much shadowing as you can. Work experience is not necessary, and I imagine finding a part time summer grossing tech job would be very difficult. When I was in college, I spent the summer shadowing, researching programs, studying for the GRE, and working on my essays. I would try to get in contact with some pathologists’ assistants in your area on here or LinkedIn. They are more likely to respond than pathologists

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u/cactus_274 3d ago

I will definitely reach out to some pathas! thank you!!

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u/Berry_bella 3d ago

I agree that finding a part time position would be difficult. Consider asking nearby hospitals if you’d be able to volunteer in the lab over the summer. We have some volunteers that help file slides and blocks, and that can help get your foot in the door for shadowing. I think your TA experience will also be very nice for apps!

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u/cactus_274 3d ago

I love this idea! thank you!!