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Medical Director, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lowell General Hospital, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA; Adjunct Associate Professor, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine; Adjunct Associate Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine, USA

Biggest challenge in pathology? Recruiting talented and brilliant medical students (pipeline) into our specialty is an ongoing challenge that will impact our future. With molecular diagnostics that inform personalized care, advances in digital pathology, and many AI-powered algorithms emerging, our specialty is poised to be a major change agent in healthcare. However, many barriers, including a perceived lack of direct patient care, remain a challenge. Toward that end, the concept of pathology clinics that we have pursued is a step toward addressing that gap.

Book recommendation? “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz has inspired me as a servant leader, especially in helping me address my strategies toward my professional career and toward self care in allaying burnout. Although these principles are life lessons, they also give very practical tips on how to address a scientific question. I suggest those who choose to consider these, to ponder them and see if it is helpful.

Another gem that I have recently discovered is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. His inspiring words, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it,” have helped me persevere despite many challenges, as an immigrant woman, trying to balance a career and my family in this country.

Raising the profile? Visible pathologists should be involved in direct patient care, either in the form of "pathology clinics', or as direct consultants as patients navigate the complexity of their diagnosis. This will empower the patients and bring professional fulfilment. The Cures Act 2021 and access to the internet makes the “universe” poised to achieve this goal.