When I was named as an ASCP Forty Under 40 honoree, I was a second-year anatomic and clinical pathology resident at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Since then, I served as chief resident, became board certified by the American Board of Pathology, completed a general surgical pathology fellowship at Stanford University while serving as an elected fellow representative for the resident and fellow forum committee, and returned to Colorado as a hybrid bone and soft tissue fellow/clinical instructor, which is my current role. My clinical and leadership skills have advanced tremendously with this additional training and experience. I have also been empowered to pursue and complete complementary professional development courses, including a “Foundations in Equity” certificate program, and am actively involved in large-scale research initiatives. My career as an academic pathologist is taking shape, as I intend to remain at the University of Colorado as an Assistant Professor next year. While growing as an educator, I remain a life-long student committed to leading innovations within the profession.

The ASCP 40 Under Forty recognition so early in my career truly broadened my horizons and opened doors for me in terms of leadership opportunities, fellowship positions, and networking within a highly respected professional association. I have been able to discuss this recognition throughout my fellowship and job interviews, reflect on my personal and professional growth since receiving this recognition, and continue to learn from honorees that are recognized annually for their innovations and visions for our profession.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in the years since being named 40/40?

Since being named a 40 Under Forty honoree, the biggest lesson I have learned is to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth. The more I pursue challenges that could result in failure, the more I find myself succeeding.