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Initially drawn to the field by a pathology lecturer in medical school, Cliff Sullivan, MD, discovered one of the critical roles pathologists play in healthcare—that of teachers. That revelation piqued Dr. Sullivan’s curiosity, and the lectures demystified pathology, and motivated by this, he decided to delve deeper into the world of pathology by undertaking an elective in his third year of medical school. This experience provided Dr. Sullivan with invaluable insights into the clinical aspects of pathology, further enhancing his fascination with the specialty.  

Here, Dr. Sullivan, Associate Professor at Emory University School of Medicine, Laboratory Director of the Cellular Therapy Laboratory, and Co-Director of the HLA Laboratory, shares his thoughts on three questions (and a bonus!) on his path to pathology, his involvement with ASCP, and more.  

Can you share a specific experience or moment that solidified your decision to choose a career in the laboratory?

Choosing a career path is often shaped by pivotal moments that serve as a testament to one's passion, aptitude, and dedication. For me, such a defining moment occurred during my first elective rotation in pathology, an experience that solidified my decision to pursue a career in the laboratory. 

I vividly recall the day when one of the attending pathologists handed me a slide with a straightforward yet challenging directive: examine the slide, identify its contents, and report back with my findings. Given that my exposure to histology and pathology had been limited to basic lectures during my initial years in medical school, I felt a little apprehensive. 

Upon examining the slide, I discerned that it showcased a particular type of epithelium. However, determining its origin proved to be a more intricate task. The cells appeared regular and organized, alleviating concerns of malignancy. Drawing from my foundational knowledge, I began to meticulously compare the slide with examples of normal histology from various organs. After careful scrutiny and comparison, I deduced that the slide depicted normal ureteral epithelium. 

With a blend of anticipation and nervousness, I returned to the sign-out room to present my findings. To my satisfaction, my analysis was correct. While this task might seem rudimentary to some, it was a significant milestone for me. With minimal guidance, I had successfully identified the tissue type, reaffirming my burgeoning interest in pathology. 

This experience was emblematic of the essence of pathology—a discipline where keen observation, deductive reasoning, and analytical skills converge to unravel diagnostic mysteries. It underscored the profound satisfaction derived from solving such puzzles and showcased the potential impact of meticulous examination on patient care. 

Moreover, this episode instilled a newfound confidence in my abilities. It served as a poignant reminder that with dedication, perseverance, and the right tools, I was capable of many things. It was at that juncture, amidst the microcosm of cells and tissues, that I realized my future lay in the realm of laboratory medicine. 

Have you had any mentors or role models in the field of pathology who have influenced your career choice? If so, how have they impacted your journey? 

Throughout my journey in pathology, I have been fortunate to encounter individuals who have not only shaped my understanding of the field but also guided my career choices. Two such individuals, Drs. Howard Gebel and Robert Bray, stand out as pivotal figures in my professional trajectory. 

Before starting residency, my exposure to pathology primarily centered around anatomic pathology, which had initially ignited my passion for the discipline. Clinical pathology remained largely uncharted territory for me. However, during the early days of my residency, my first rotation in Transfusion Medicine presented me with a case of suspected platelet transfusion refractoriness. This particular case necessitated HLA testing, an area I was unfamiliar with. Eager to grasp the nuances, I sought guidance from Drs. Gebel and Bray, who were the co-directors of the HLA laboratory at Emory.  

Upon meeting them, their shared enthusiasm for HLA testing was palpable. Their interactions, filled with animated discussions and complementary insights, were reminiscent of a seasoned duo who had honed their craft over years of collaboration. Their depth of knowledge was inspiring, and their passion was infectious. I was quickly drawn into the intricacies of HLA and opted for an elective. 

During my elective, I had the distinct privilege of collaborating with them on a review paper for a prestigious journal. Their willingness to entrust me with first authorship was both an honor and a testament to their faith in nurturing young talent. The process of researching and writing that paper was enlightening, consolidating my resolve to specialize in HLA. 

From the outset of my training, Drs. Gebel and Bray exemplified mentorship at its finest. Their stature in the HLA community was undeniable, yet they remained approachable, generous with their time, and unwavering in their commitment to fostering my growth. They actively involved me in meetings, entrusted me with projects, and even facilitated my participation in national committees. 

In retrospect, meeting Drs. Gebel and Bray was more than a stroke of luck; it was a defining moment that steered my career towards HLA. Their mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my journey, and I remain profoundly grateful for their guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support. 

How did you first get involved with ASCP? 

Getting involved with ASCP was a serendipitous journey for me. It began when one of my attending physicians encouraged me to apply for the ASCP Resident Subspecialty Grants. Fortunately, I was successful in securing one of these grants. A few months later, while I was presenting my work at the USCAP meeting, Dr. Jenn Stall, who was the Resident Council Chair at that time, approached me. She recognized my name from my grant application and introduced herself. We had a brief conversation where she mentioned, "You should think about applying for the Resident Council." At that moment, I didn't give it much thought. However, upon reflection after the conference, I decided to take a chance and apply. To my delight, I was selected. 

Fast forward two years, and I found myself as the Chair of the Resident Council, followed by a term on the Pathologist Council. Throughout this journey, Dr. Stall became more than just a mentor; she became a guiding force in my ASCP involvement. With her extensive experience, she introduced me to the workings of the American Medical Association (AMA) through the ASCP delegation. Drawing from my past experiences in student government, I quickly found a passion in representing pathology within the AMA. This role allows me to showcase the pivotal role pathologists play in patient care to our clinical colleagues in the House of Delegates. 

I owe a significant portion of my involvement and growth within ASCP to Dr. Stall. She opened doors for me to participate in various councils and committees, such as Patient Champions, Scholarship, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Her guidance has been invaluable, both professionally and personally. In Dr. Stall, I not only found an exceptional mentor but also a cherished friend. 

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the laboratory? 

Here's some insight from my perspective as an attending at an academic center, where I've had the privilege of interacting with numerous medical students and Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) students. 

Firstly, I often find myself sharing with them the unparalleled impact that laboratory medicine offers within the realm of healthcare. It's a unique field where your daily contributions directly influence the care of countless patients. Think about it: every test you conduct, every diagnosis you assist in, plays a pivotal role in patient outcomes. The significance of that responsibility is both humbling and rewarding. 

One of the standout aspects of training in laboratory medicine is its incredible diversity and depth. Whether you're a medical student or an MLS student, you're in for an enriching experience. The rotations, ranging from microbiology to chemistry to blood bank, provide a comprehensive view of the intricacies of the field. Each rotation offers its own set of challenges, learnings, and rewards. My time in residency felt like a continuous journey of discovery, with each day presenting new opportunities to learn and grow. 

Furthermore, the field of laboratory medicine is ever evolving, driven by advancements in technology and research. This ensures that professionals in the field are always at the forefront of medical innovation, making it an ideal environment for those with an insatiable curiosity and passion for learning. 

Lastly, from personal observation, those in laboratory medicine often exude a genuine sense of job satisfaction. It's rare to encounter a pathologist who isn't passionate about their work. I believe this speaks volumes about the field's inherent rewards and the fulfillment it offers to those who choose this path.