Today is Pathologists' Assistant Day! To celebrate, we're highlighting one of the students in our MHSc in Laboratory Medicine program, Sophie Gosselin.
What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?
I'm currently enrolled in the Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Pathologists’ Assistant program. My interest in this field began with my mom, who works as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) at the hospital in Sudbury. Growing up with that exposure, I developed a deep appreciation for the critical role medical laboratories play in patient care.
Through my studies, I’ve become fascinated by the complexities of human pathology and its impact on diagnosis and treatment. I enjoy the meticulous nature of examining biological specimens and the opportunity to contribute to patient care behind the scenes. The role of a Pathologists’ Assistant aligns perfectly with my passion for detail-oriented work and my desire to make a meaningful impact in healthcare without direct patient interaction.
I’m especially drawn to this field because of its constant evolution - it requires ongoing learning and adaptation, which I find exciting. I know this career will continually challenge me and keep me engaged for years to come.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?
One of the most meaningful and eye-opening experiences I’ve had at LMP so far has been the anatomy dissection course. Having the opportunity to work hands-on with human anatomy has given me a much deeper appreciation for the complexity of the body and the importance of careful dissection. Each week, we focus on a different anatomical region, allowing me to explore structures in incredible detail and truly understand how everything connects. This experience has strengthened my technical skills and reinforced that I’m definitely on the right career path.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is from my dad, who always told me “It doesn’t matter what you do in life - just be the best at it”. This has always stuck with me, whatever path I choose, I am to put in my best effort, keep improving, and be proud of what I do.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
An important learning experience for me was during my undergrad. I realized it’s okay not to excel at everything, and that failure is a normal part of the learning process.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
I'm incredibly lucky to have three influential people in my life - my parents and my sister. I couldn't ask for a more supportive trio; each of them has guided, encouraged, and pushed me to become the person I am today.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
Although I'm known for being one of the pickiest eaters, what surprises most people is just how much I love extremely spicy food. My entire family shares this love for heat, and it's always a bit of a shock to others when they find out how much I enjoy it!
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Hiking, camping, and since I live in Toronto now, I’m going to as many Blue Jays games as possible.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
Album: American Heartbreak (Zach Bryan)
Movie: Any Harry Potter movie
Novel: I haven’t read many novels lately in my free time. At the moment, my favourite book is our Grants Dissection Manual (this is my anatomy lab textbook), which I find myself going through almost every day this semester.
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
My dream dinner would be with José Bautista and Kevin Pillar, with my sister there too. They were a huge part of our childhood baseball memories, so getting to sit down and talk with them would be pretty special.
Where/what is your favourite place?
Manitoulin Island, my mom and all her siblings own property there, so we have about 30 family members in total. I’ve spent most of my summers there as a kid, and my cousins, who are my age, have been my best friends. It’s always the best time there. Definitely a second home.
If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?
I would need a gallon of sunscreen because I burn in about 3 seconds in the sun. Also, probably a Nintendo switch to keep me entertained (mainly just for Animal Crossing).
Help us bust the myths of Lab Medicine!
Laboratory Medicine is often misunderstood by the general public. They seem to think many us spend our time in basements, not speaking to anyone, or that we don’t play a role in patient care.
This Laboratory Medicine Week we are busting some of those myths! Join us on LinkedIn or Instagram every day from this Laboratory Medicine Week (13 - 19 April, 2025) to see how some of our pathologists, residents and microbiologists tackle common myths!
