Our fellows come from residencies around the U.S. and outside the country. Learn what a few of them have to say about our program.

Elizaveta Flerova, M.D.

Medical school: Pavlov State Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russia

Residency: Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA

Background: Dr. Elizaveta (Liza) Flerova was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia. She obtained their medical degree at Pavlov State Medical University in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Her residency was completed at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. In her spare time, she enjoys birdwatching, hiking, and exploring new places.

Why did you chose Mayo Clinic for your fellowship? I chose Mayo Clinic for my Hematopathology Fellowship because of its patient-centered approach, high professionalism standards, and a strong commitment to trainee education. After my interview, I left feeling inspired , fulfilled, and confident that Mayo Clinic is ideal place for my professional growth. The diversity of cases, well-balanced and comprehensive curriculum, access to cutting-edge diagnostic assays, and opportunity to learn from the leaders in the field make training at Mayo Clinic a unique and enriching experience.

Teodora Popa, M.D.

Medical school: University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada

Residency: Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Background: Dr. Teodora Popa was born in Romania and grew up in the mining town of Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. She received her MD from the University of Sherbrooke in Sherbrooke, Quebec, and completed her diagnostic and molecular pathology (formerly anatomic pathology) residency at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, serving as chief resident in 2022-2023. During her residency, she discovered a passion for medical education and the promotion of pathology as a medical specialty. She developed learning tools for residents and gave multiple educational lectures to medical and undergraduate students, including at the University of Cambridge in the UK. This year, she is excited to join the Division of Hematopathology at Mayo Clinic as a fellow. Outside of pathology, she enjoys cooking, painting and martial arts, and holds a first-degree black belt in the goju-ryu style of karate.

Why did you chose Mayo Clinic for your fellowship? Although I was initially unfamiliar with the Mayo Clinic fellowship programs, I was very impressed with my interview process. The Mayo Clinic Hematopathology fellowship program stood out to me for its growth mindset, emphasizing education, mentorship, and trainee support. The program offers unique resources such as access to education specialists and physician extenders, in addition to the experienced Hematopathology faculty, to ensure that trainees are always supported in their learning and academic endeavors. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to train in a collaborative environment that allows me to focus on becoming not only an excellent hematopathologist, but also a well-rounded professional.