Get to Know Francesca Polit, MD

Francesca Polit, MD
Pathology Resident at Mount Sinai Medical Center 
Miami, Florida

What is your current role?
I'm a fourth-year Pathology Resident at Mount Sinai Medical Center.
 
What is the best part of your occupation?
The best part of my occupation, I would say, is being involved in medical science, something that has always fascinated me. I also find it deeply rewarding to witness not only my own professional growth but that of my colleagues, and to know that I’ve played a small part in that process.

How did you become interested in pathology?
I became interested in pathology during my senior year of medical school while working on a thesis about thyroid imaging, correlating cytology and ultrasound findings. Initially, my research was focused on the imaging aspect, but as I delved deeper, I found myself captivated by the mesmerizing colors and patterns of the cells, almost like intricate mosaics of art. It was at that moment that I decided to shift the focus of my research towards pathology. Later, I completed rotations in the United States to experience the practice firsthand, and it took just one day for me to realize that this was what I truly wanted to pursue.

How did you become involved with the FSP?
I became involved with the Florida Society of Pathologists early on. At the time, I was an observer seeking a residency position and was kindly invited to attend one of their congresses back in 2021. Since then, I haven’t missed a single FSP meeting, eight and counting!

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?
Community is such a big part of what being an FSP member means to me. Since pathology is already such a specialized field, keeping those connections strong and fostering real friendships within our community feels especially meaningful. It has also opened doors to amazing experiences, like attending the CAP House of Delegates and Pathologists Leadership Summit and Hill Day in Washington, D.C., in April 2025, an incredible chance to get involved in policymaking that impacts all pathologists. And one more thing worth mentioning, my favorite part of FSP conferences is the puppy break!

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 recognition for pathologists, both from our medical peers and patients. Pathology is the key to successful patient care. Once patients and policymakers, fully understand this, our specialty will finally receive the spotlight it deserves. I also hope to see more direct involvement between pathologists and patients. Being able to speak with them, explain a diagnosis, and walk them through our thought process. I believe this would give them comfort and even confidence to adhere to certain treatment plans in a more positive way. Those interactions would bring a deeper sense of purpose and meaning to our work.

What are your hobbies outside of the office?
In my spare time, I enjoy going to the beach and spending time outdoors, it helps me recharge and stay balanced. I value time with family and friends. I like attending live events whether it is concert or sports, especially hockey games --> Vamos Gatos!. I'm also interested in graphology and enjoy creative projects, such as growing milkweed plants and observing the butterfly life cycle. 

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you?
I make a mean baklava.

Is there anything we didn’t ask that you’d like included? 
Born and raised in Ecuador, moved to the States for my dream career: pathology.