Karissa French
Tell me about your background before pathology/medical school
Undergraduate degree in Forensics and biochemistry at the University of Windsor, Masters degree in research biology at the university of Cardiff in Wales. I did medical school here at Western.
What made you choose pathology as a career?
Always interested in forensics, but originally wanted to do evidence analysis or toxicology, but at a work placement in the Medical Examiner's office in Detroit during undergrad a staff there tossed a slice of heart at me and explained all the information he could gather from that single piece of tissue. Which at the time seemed almost magical, divining great secrets from tissues.
What attracted you to Western's pathology program?
The vibes were right. I did my medical school here so I got to spend a little more time in the department than most. I found it immediately welcoming, the residents are kind and quick involve me in discussion, excellent at asking questions for my skill level or squabbling over the latest video games, tv shows, cars, fashion etc. When some of the staff joined in I realized that by joining this group I would have fast friends and support from people who have already gone through the process which is key for a transition to residency.
What are some specific things that you like about Western's AP program?
LHSC is a regional forensics unit, so all cases happen in the same hospital as the pathology department so all autopsy training is given by forensics pathologists even with hospital cases.
The staff are all excellent. As residents our main focus is learning the many many many facets of pathology and the staff have guided many a wayward resident in the ancient ways of the H&E stains. The atmosphere is supportive and it is clear to see that everyone is invested in your success no matter what path you chose. The whole lab is on the same floor so you don't only interact constantly with staff, but the laboratory technicians and the pathology assistants. As a training site for pathology assistants is it nice to always have someone moving through the same process as you.
Often time we will go out as a group for patio evenings, AYCE sushi, trivia night, bowling or any other activity we decide on.
What are your hobbies outside of medicine?
The one most people are interested in is that I like to track race my car when the weather permits. Once, what felt like many many many moons ago I used to like travelling. When at home I like to play video games and dote on the furry little jerks I share my house with. At work there is a great cute cat photo swapping ring so getting some good shots of them playing or sleeping often takes a bit of doing.
What are your academic interests?
I've been interested in forensics since high school and knew that I wanted to work in that capacity in some way. I think a lot of people disregard the impact of death on families, and sometimes comment that it is a waste of a medical degree, I live to prove them wrong. I also like to organize talks and teaching to try and highlight how pathology interacts with other parts of medicine because a lot of physicians consider it a magical black box, tissue goes in and a diagnosis pops out, there is a lot of frustration there when something goes wrong so I like to try and do as much teaching as possible so as to avoid these situations.
What are your career goals?
I'm in the middle of applications for a forensics fellowship. After that a job would be nice, I've been playing the long game here and am excited for the next stages of my career.
What is something you would like to tell students who may not be able to do an AP elective at Western?
A residents group is made of lots of diverse personalities and interests, and I personally hope that we have made a place here inviting and engaging because pathology is a long elective, but I think we work hard and have fun together, help each other succeed as a whole department. It's a little hard to get across in words but I have tried my best. Here at Western you will get a quality education and even enjoy it.
