Zhaoyi “Joey” Wang, a rising fourth-year medical student in Spokane, has been awarded the 2025 College of American Pathologists (CAP) Distinguished Medical Student Award—a national honor given to just one student per medical school who demonstrates exceptional interest, aptitude, and involvement in pathology.
“From exploring recreational genetic testing in high school, to shadowing pathologists during college, and completing pathology rotations in both academic and private practice settings,” says Wang, “my curiosity about the root causes of disease has continually grown.”
Nominated by a regional faculty member, Wang was selected for his sustained commitment to the field and his broad exposure to the many ways pathology shapes modern medicine. The award, presented by the CAP—the leading organization for board-certified pathologists in the U.S.—recognizes students who show early and meaningful engagement with the specialty.
Wang adds, “The CAP Distinguished Medical Student award is such an affirmation of my dedication to the field of pathology since the very beginning of my journey in medicine!”
As he continues his training, Wang remains excited about where pathology can take him next—and grateful for the mentors who helped guide him along the way.