Where are you from?
Fremont, Wisconsin
Describe your path to the Emory Genetic Counseling Training Program
While pursuing my bachelor's in genetics at the University of Georgia (UGA), I had the opportunity to participate in some great research projects. However, I wanted to find a way to use my interest in genetics to help people in a more health care-facing setting. I joined a club at UGA called the Genetic Education Network and Experience Society (GENES). At GENES, I heard the previous program director of Emory’s Genetic Counseling Training Program, Cecelia Bellcross, talk about the field of genetic counseling. From that point on, I knew I wanted to be a genetic counselor. I began preparing for the application process by interviewing and shadowing genetic counselors and familiarizing myself with patient advocacy organizations such as Crisis Text Line and Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind.
After graduating from UGA, PreventionGenetics hired me as a laboratory genetic counselor assistant (GCA). My role at PreventionGenentics has allowed me to connect and learn from amazing genetic counselors and other GCAs. Additionally, I continued my advocacy work with Special Olympics Wisconsin, PDC Orenda Center, Marshfield Clinic Cattails Cottage and Promedica Hospice. My experiences in these roles further solidified my desire to help make genetics more accessible for individuals of all backgrounds and at all stages of their diagnostic or health care journeys.
What field do you plan to pursue post-graduation?
I'm excited to have accepted a multispecialty genetic counseling position for Hospital Sisters Health System St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Why did you decide to pursue a career as a genetic counselor and come to Emory?
Pursuing a career as a genetic counselor allows me to help end diagnostic odysseys for families while facilitating communications between patients, families and health care teams about how genetics may help improve their health care management.
During the application process, I often reflected on the first talk I heard about genetic counseling by Dr. Bellcross, so it felt right to attend the school that got me interested in the field in the first place. I also knew Emory had a reputation as a research-focused program, which I wanted to continue after enjoying my undergraduate research experiences. Additionally, early clinical involvement was essential to me, and I appreciated the wide spectrum of clinical rotations and the early start of getting involved in the clinic that Emory offered.
What would you want others to know about your years in the Emory Genetic Counseling Training Program?
My time in the Emory Genetic Counseling Training Program has been extremely challenging, but it’s also been rewarding. I’m really grateful for the support of my friends, family, partner, colleagues and classmates as I’ve been pursuing this long-time goal of being a genetic counselor. I couldn’t do it without them.
What did you like most about living in Atlanta?
I love that Atlanta is a large city with a lot to explore but still has a lot of great outdoor parks and nature. Being able to enjoy the farmer’s markets or concerts on the weekends with my friends are some of my favorite activities in Atlanta.