Hometown: Victoria, B.C.
Program: MSc, Genetic Counselling – Victoria
Year in Program: 2
What inspired you to pursue your program?
As someone who loved genetics and medical sciences from a young age, genetic counselling perfectly aligned with my drive for lifelong learning. Genetics is a constantly evolving field (pun intended) and I am excited to be able to learn and grow with it. The genetic counselling values of patient autonomy and education resonated with me equally. The challenge of being able to meet every patient where they are at and explore their values and emotions to help them move forward in the best way for them, is an aspect of genetic counselling that has been the most rewarding so far.
Why did you choose UBC?
UBC’s genetic counseling program was perfect for me both in location and program format. The emphasis on clinical experiential learning aligned with my learning style. Additionally, the well-rounded curriculum of research and coursework made me feel confident to enter the field prepared. The location of Vancouver offers hiking, biking, backpacking, kayaking and cultural experiences year-round, which are all things that were important to me to maintain my mental health while in a challenging program.
Tell me about your research.
For individuals with a genetic condition that increases their risk of ovarian cancer, removal of their ovaries can be an effective way to reduce their risk. However, doing so causes immediate menopause (surgical menopause) which can have negative impacts on quality of life and health. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective treatment for menopause symptoms, however, many patients report seeing contradictory safety information in the media and experience fear of long-term health effects of HRT. My research aims to explore the experience of people when deciding to use HRT to treat surgical menopause with an aim to improve patient resources and counselling for HRT.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
As the first cohort in UBC’s genetic counselling program in Victoria, I am looking forward to learning in a new environment and learning from the amazing genetic counsellors on Vancouver Island. I am eager to grow and feel more independent as I complete this last year to become a board eligible genetic counsellor. I am also looking forward to welcoming in the cohort of 2024, reuniting with my amazing classmates and making more lasting memories.