Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Katerina Raastad. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Katerina , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Looking back at internships and apprenticeships can be interesting, because there is so much variety in people’s experiences – and often those experiences inform our own leadership style. Do you have an interesting story from that stage of your career that you can share with us?

During my one year of forensic pathology fellowship, I’ve had a lot of “firsts”, which was both exciting and intimidating at the same time. We would never know what type of case we would be getting that day, so in a sense it was like Christmas every morning. And no, I’ve never had anyone wake up on my table (yet), but I’ve quickly learned that I absolutely hate gunshot wounds and much prefer stabbings and strangulations. I’ve definitely had some rougher days due to what I had seen and was exposed to, but it definitely made me appreciate life more and realize just how precious it is.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As far as my career as a forensic pathologist, I discovered the field during an elective summer rotation after my first year of medical school. I have always had an interest in forensics, and read a lot of murder-mystery books, as well as watched popular shows like Law and Order, Forensic Files etc. I actually almost went to law to practice criminal law. When I found forensic pathology during that summer I knew it was the right field for me, the marriage of medical science and investigative work. I love human anatomy, working with my hands, and having to solve a mystery of why/how each of my “patients” have departed. The best part is they never complain or talk back!!

As far as fitness and competing, I began lifting weights back in 2015. I’m a very thin person genetically, and I was tired of people constantly commenting on how skinny I was. I wanted to look strong on the outside just how I felt strong on the inside. I went onto bodybuilding.com, printed out a free program for women, and the rest is history! I’m a very competitive person and a high achiever, so stepping on the bodybuilding stage for my first show in 2017 was a natural progression for me. I have been competing ever since, with a total of 13 shows under my belt, with two more coming up before the year is over. My next goal that I will accomplish is earning my IFBB Professional status!

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

Definitely yes!! I am so lucky and grateful that I have found forensics as it is truly something I have a passion for! Moreover, I was able to secure my dream job in beautiful Hawai’i, which is my home. Create a strong vision for yourself and NEVER give up on your goals! If I can do it, so can anyone!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Sure can. Nothing in my life has ever come easy. I went through numerous “failures” and set backs on my journey, but regardless I have accomplished my goals. I actually did not get into medical school the first time I applied. It was heart breaking, and I felt like my dreams of becoming a doctor were being shattered. Instead of giving up and choosing a different profession, I improved my application and reapplied again the following year. I kept a positive attitude and my fingers and toes crossed, don’t ever underestimate the power of manifestation and a positive attitude! I was ecstatic when I got my acceptance letter. It reminds one of the happiest moments of my life to this day.

As far as bodybuilding goes, I have been on the journey of achieving my Pro status since 2019. It’s a very subjective sport, and you definitely learn to develop thick skin as you go through the journey. It is my next big goal, and I know I won’t stop or quit until I make it a reality!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @fit_kate_md

Image Credits
Roalyver Lopez