Could you tell us a little bit about your educational background?

I become interested in science and genetics in high school. I attended Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island where I focused my efforts on choosing majors that directly correlated with genetic counseling. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Applied Psychology.

What first got you interested in the healthcare field as a career choice? There are a lot of career options in the field -nursing, physician assistant, etc., what made you decide that genetic counseling was the right practice area/career choice for you?

Although I have always enjoyed school, science has been the subject that consistently holds my interest. It wasn’t until ninth grade biology that I was introduced to genetics. I immediately latched onto this intriguing and exciting subject and my future seemed to finally come into focus. The joy I got from learning this specific subject set forth my journey to find the right career path and that is when I stumbled upon genetic counseling. I loved that it combined aspects of biology, psychology, and sociology. It is a privilege and honor to be able to empower patients through education of their genetic status.

What type of obstacles have you had to overcome on the road to getting your education and in particular in pursuing your Genetic Counseling degree?

What most people don’t know is that Genetic Counseling is an extremely competitive program to get into. I applied right out of undergrad and unfortunately didn’t get in that round. I took this pretty hard and it was difficult to wrap my mind around going through another application cycle. I ended up moving to Indiana to pursue a position as a genetic counseling assistant. This was an incredible learning experience, but it also meant another year of not being close to home. The second application cycle was difficult, but this extra year allowed me the opportunity to apply to KGI. Even though it was tough, I am thankful for the extra year of experience.

Once you decided to pursue a Genetic Counseling degree, how did you know that KGI was the right school for you?

I decided to apply to KGI because of its progressive approach to genetic counseling, as well as it being located in Southern California where I eventually want to work as a genetic counselor. The moment I knew KGI was for me though, was when I attended the on-campus interview. Meeting with faculty and staff gave me a glimpse of how supportive this program will be with students’ goals of becoming successful genetic counselors.

What are you most looking forward to about beginning your Genetic Counseling studies at KGI?

I am excited to finally start learning about the profession that I have been after for nine years. I am looking forward to creating bonds with my fellow classmates and starting clinicals at exciting facilities throughout Southern California.

What is one fun and interesting fact about you?

I played Division I softball at Bryant University as a pitcher/3rd baseman. When I exhausted my NCAA eligibility, I was able to stay on another year as a student assistant coach.