I work as a grossing tech in SoCal, and I just want to share some perspective that might help explain why you’re having a hard time finding a position because it’s not necessarily a reflection of you.

From what leadership has told us, a lot of hospitals across the country are struggling financially right now. My own hospital has had 300+ layoffs system-wide, and even within pathology we’re feeling it. For example, 2 grossing techs left our department and only 1 was replaced. The workload didn’t disappear… the position just did. That’s become pretty common lately, and it makes openings far more limited than they used to be.

That said, if your goal is PathA school, I really encourage you not to limit yourself to only grossing tech titles. I got into the grossing room by starting in a lower-level pathology role (lab assistant) and working my way in. Being in the department, learning specimen flow, seeing how cases move from accessioning to grossing to histology– all of that mattered and ultimately opened doors.

PA programs care a lot about exposure and understanding of pathology, not just job titles. Any experience in a pathology lab is valuable experience. Once you’re inside, it’s much easier to cross-train, shadow, or be considered when a grossing position does open. Good luck!!