Program: MSc in Genetic Counselling
Hometown: Hamilton, Ontario
What have you enjoyed most about your experience with the MSc Genetic Counselling program at UBC?
I most enjoyed the clinical rotation experience. I really appreciated the diversity of the available rotations. The dedication of the clinical rotation supervisors made the experience even better. All of the clinical rotation supervisors provided amazing support and guidance; they always made time for their students and made us a priority.
What has surprised or challenged you?
I was surprised by how busy I was over the 2 years in the program. People will tell you how busy the program is before you enter; however, I don’t think I truly appreciated it until I was in the program. Being in the program is like having a full time job and being in school at the same time. What makes the busy schedule all worth it is that everything you learn in clinics and class is directly applicable to your career. No bit of time in clinic or class is time wasted. So even though the two years were incredibly busy, I enjoyed every minute of it.
What advice would you offer to incoming students?
Work together as a team. Your class of 6 students will spend a lot of time together between seminars, lectures, and working in your office. The two years can be demanding, but working together with your classmates and supporting each other through the program can make a world of difference. Your classmates will be experiencing similar challenges as you, which often means they can offer the best support.
What’s one thing that we might be surprised to learn about you?
I’ve moved 15 times in the past 7 years.
What’s next for you?
I’m working as a clinical genetic counsellor at a cancer centre in Santa Barbara, California.