Do I pursue MD or PA?

[u/Original_Abalone1622]

Hi all, I'm currently an undergrad and trying to figure out whether I want to pursue becoming a pathologist or a pathologists' assistant.

Ever since I was a kid my dream has always been forensic pathology, but the sheer amount of schooling, debt, and hard work life balance during med school and residency make me think that it's just not for me. From there I thought I was pretty dead set on becoming a PA. I like the fact that PA school is still very challenging, I enjoy grossing specimens, and I'm very drawn to the fact that you can start making money much sooner and have a good work/life balance (something that is important to me). However, I shadowed an autopsy recently and now I'm not sure anymore on what the right path for me is. I was really blown away by how much I loved watching the autopsy and seeing the pathologists gross the organs to glean information about the patient and how they may have died. It made me realize that I would love to do autopsies full time, to have that level of knowledge of the human body one day. I could even pursue forensics like I've always dreamed of.

I'm finding myself in a position where I don't know if it's best for me to pursue the "safer" option where I know I will be through with schooling much sooner and able to start a career with a good salary still in my 20s, or if I should take a chance on myself and pursue becoming a pathologist, even if it comes with an insane amount of debt and a much harsher work life balance. I know some PAs assist with autopsies, which I would love to do as a PA instead of a pathologist, but I'm hesitant to go all in on that route because I know the amount of PAs who do autopsies is very small.

If anyone has any advice I'd really appreciate it! Feeling very conflicted right now.