Dear Prospective Resident Applicants,
On behalf of the Pathology Department at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, we are delighted to extend our warmest welcome and gratitude to you for considering our esteemed program. We appreciate the time and effort you have invested in learning about the unique opportunities offered by our residency training program.
At Wake Forest, we take immense pride in our surgical pathology section, which handles a high volume of cases spanning from routine biopsies to complex diagnostic challenges. As a resident in our program, you will be exposed to a wealth of diverse and intriguing cases, providing you with a solid foundation for your pathology career. The department’s commitment to resident education is paramount and ensures that you receive the utmost attention and guidance throughout your training.
Our program also places a special emphasis on autopsy training, providing you with unique and comprehensive experiences, ranging from hospital autopsy cases to complex forensic investigations, including homicides. Those interested in a career in forensics may even be given the opportunity to observe crime scene investigations or courtroom testimony. No matter your future career goals, the training offered by our program will refine your skills and deepen your understanding of disease processes, shaping you into a well-rounded and competent pathologist.
In the field of cytology, our residents have the privilege of conducting on-site adequacy assessments and fine needle aspirations. Working closely with an experienced and supportive team of cytopathologists and cytotechnologists, you will receive personalized instruction and gain expertise in diverse cytology cases. This hands-on approach ensures a thorough grasp of diagnostic techniques and enhances your overall proficiency.
Within our clinical pathology division, you will have the opportunity to explore various disciplines, including microbiology, blood bank and transfusion medicine, hematopathology and flow cytometry, chemistry, lab management, and molecular pathology. This well-rounded exposure allows you to appreciate the intricacies of each specialty and acquire a comprehensive understanding of laboratory medicine. Rather than a passive learner, you will be treated like a junior medical laboratory director and empowered to participate in clinical consultation opportunities—with the guidance and support of your attending, of course.
Our faculty members are not only experts in their respective fields but are also committed to resident education. They have an open-door policy and consistently involve residents in their academic pursuits, often leading to presentations at national meetings and publications in impactful journals. Additionally, a formal mentorship program pairs each resident with a faculty member, enabling us to gain the most from our education and reach our career goals.
Not only is Wake Forest a great place to train, but it is also located in Winston-Salem, a fantastic place to live. This medium-sized city strikes the perfect balance of having everything you could need, while also feeling like a small town.
There is never a shortage of things to do. Shopping centers are plentiful, the culinary scene boasts diverse restaurants and bars, and the city offers numerous activities for every taste, such as sporting events, festivals, museums, and parks. For arts enthusiasts, there are numerous theatrical productions in local theaters and nearby cities like Charlotte and Greensboro. Winston-Salem also offers year-round live music events and community concerts by local symphonies and orchestras like the Triad Area Medical Orchestra (TAMO), which was established by a Wake Forest School of Medicine student.
Moreover, our location provides easy access to remarkable natural destinations for nature enthusiasts. We are only 30-40 minutes away from Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock state parks, offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Additionally, the Smoky Mountains, the beach, Charlotte, Raleigh, Atlanta, and Charleston are all within a short distance, allowing for memorable weekend getaways. If you have a farther travel destination in mind, there are three major airports within a 2-hour drive from which to choose.
Winston-Salem is also an affordable city to live in, with many residents able to purchase houses within an average commute of 15 minutes. This affordability allows you to settle comfortably into your residency, while enjoying the city's numerous amenities. Additionally, Winston Salem is a great place to raise a family, with excellent schools for children.
Once again, we want to express our sincere appreciation for considering the Pathology Residency Program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. We are excited about the prospect of welcoming you to our esteemed institution. Should you have any further questions or desire additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Sincerely,