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 our residency opportunities.

At Wake Forest, we take immense pride in our Surgical Pathology Department, which handles a high volume of intriguing 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 intellectually stimulating cases, providing you with a solid foundation for your pathology career. Our commitment to resident education is paramount, and we ensure that you receive the utmost attention and guidance throughout your training.

Our program places a special emphasis on autopsy training, providing you with comprehensive experience ranging from hospital autopsy cases to complex forensic investigations, including homicides. This exposure 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 experienced 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, 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.

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 exploits, often leading to presentations at national meetings and publications in impactful journals. Additionally, our formal mentorship program pairs a resident with a faculty member, enabling you to gain the most from your education and reach your career goals.

Winston-Salem, the city we call home, is 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, with something for everyone to enjoy in the city and nearby communities. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful trails around mountains and lakes, perfect for hiking and biking. The culinary scene boasts diverse restaurants and bars, and the city offers live music venues, sporting events, museums, parks, and excellent schools for children.

Moreover, our location provides easy access to remarkable natural destinations. We are only 30-40 minutes away from Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock state parks, offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains, the beach, Charlotte, Atlanta, and Charleston are all within a short distance, allowing for memorable weekend getaways.

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 comfortably settle into your residency while enjoying the city's numerous amenities.

Once again, we want to express our sincere appreciation for considering the Pathology Program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. We are excited about the prospect of welcoming you to our esteemed institution and playing a vital role in shaping your future as a pathologist. Should you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Sincerely,

Alexandra Balmaceda, MD and Azad Bakht, MD