Get to Know Tricia O'Brien, DO, MBA- December Member Spotlight

Tricia O'Brien, DO, MBA
AP/CP Pathology Resident at University of Florida - Shands Hospital
Gainesville, Florida

What is your current role?
I am currently a first-year combined AP/CP Pathology Resident at University of Florida - Shands Hospital. 

What is the best part of your occupation? 
I love being able to learn every day! There is always something new to discover in pathology. My coresidents and attendings also contribute to a fun and supportive learning environment. Their enthusiasm for pathology is infectious!

How did you become interested in pathology?
In medical school, I didn't have much exposure to pathology. My med school friend convinced me to do an elective in pathology as a late fourth year medical student. During the elective, I was captivated by the cells I saw under the microscope and impressed by the work done in the clinical laboratories. Unfortunately, it was too late for me to apply to pathology. So, I ended up matching into a transitional year residency program and reapplied to pathology the next year. I'm grateful for my transitional year, as it gave me a great medical foundation and appreciation for clinical medicine. It also confirmed my desire to go into pathology by allowing me to rotate for another month in pathology.

How did you become involved with the FSP?
I heard about the FSP from my coresidents. The annual February FSP meeting is highly anticipated in our program. I knew I wanted to attend (and look forward to it). I also wanted to be up to date with what is happening in pathology in Florida and meet other Florida pathologists, so I thought joining would be a great opportunity.

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?
FSP's bi-monthly e-newsletter, Pathology Today, has been a great resource for familiarizing myself with current pathology-related news. Additionally, I am looking forward to the learning and professional development opportunities at the 2025 FSP Annual Conference.

What would you like to see occur in the field of pathology (i.e., scientific advances, greater awareness of the field, etc.) during your career?
 I would like to see greater digital pathology and AI use in the field. I think these advancements will compliment pathologists' skillsets and promote even more accurate and efficient work.

What are your hobbies outside of the office?
I have two chihuahuas, Lily and Nugget. I enjoy playing with them and taking them for walks. One of my new year's resolutions for 2024 was to read more books for pleasure, and I am happy to report that I have! My coresidents and I even started a monthly book club. Also, Legend of Zelda is my favorite video game series to play and watch videos about its lore.

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you?
When I was an undergraduate, I worked in a C. difficile lab. In the beginning, I joined the lab because becoming involved in research seemed like the check-box thing to do as a pre-med. However, the intellectual challenge and hands on skills that I practiced during that time really helped develop my confidence. I'm very grateful to my mentors for that opportunity. 

Is there anything I did not ask that you would like to mention in the article?
I am really excited to be a part of the Florida Society of Pathologists. I can't wait to meet more members and collaborate within the field of pathology together!