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Master of Medical Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling

Julie Rice

Julie Rice

  • Job Title/Company or Program/School: Emory University School of Medicine – Master of Medical Science in Human Genetics and Genetic Counseling
  • (Undergraduate) Graduation Year: 2019
  • Neuroscience Major: Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience

What is your role currently? What do your day-to-day tasks look like?

I am currently in my first year of a two year genetic counseling training program. I am involved in didactic coursework, clinical rotations, and research for my thesis. My research involves patient and familial understanding of a 22q11 Deletion Syndrome Diagnosis. I hope to gain knowledge that will inform how we can provide better genetic counseling for these individuals, particularly for 22q patients with intellectual disabilities.

How did your education within the School of Neuroscience prepare you for your current role?

My education in the School of Neuroscience was critical in preparing me for my graduate education. It stimulated my interest in science and provided me the study skills that are allowing me to be successful.

It has provided me with a knowledge base that is unique from some of my classmates and will allow me to pursue some neuroscience-based genetic counseling.

What are your ultimate career goals? When you first started college, was this your first career choice?

My goal is to become a practicing a genetic counselor. I hope one day to be involved in the neurogenetics or psychiatric genetic counseling and potentially education of future genetic counselors or research.

When I first started college, I had no idea what I wanted to do when I graduated. Throughout my time at VT, I discovered genetic counseling and knew that it was the right fit for me.

As cheesy as it sounds, you can do anything you set your mind to. Keep working hard and you will get to where you want to go. I never imagined I would be here when I started college, but here I am. Talk to a lot of people and never be afraid to ask for help. The journey is not easy, but you can do it!

julie Rice