Quotes from Recent Graduates of the UT GC Program

The UT-Houston genetic counseling program is a wonderful training program for genetic counselors. The program provides its students with a very knowledgeable and supportive faculty and diverse clinical experiences. I enjoyed my time in the program and felt very prepared to begin work as a practicing genetic counselor upon graduation. – Sandra Darilek ‘03

The clinical experiences that I had at the Houston Medical Center were incredible. Rotating through renowned centers that attract patients from all over the world (in the largest medical center in the world) truly sets Houston's program apart from others. I saw rare conditions that I may never see again, as well as plenty of practice with more routine indications. Additionally, the experience of working with a multi-culturally diverse population and utilizing the assistance of translators was a helpful and very real world applicable skill. Houston has an outstanding faculty of genetic counselors as well as PhD and MD geneticists that work closely with the students. The faculty went out of their way to ensure students are included in interesting cases. Thoughtful and helpful feedback is given after every case I participated in, and the faculty encouraged and valued student participation in discussing cases. The faculty and second year student assigned to new students helped with the adjustments to graduate school. The professional and personal relationships developed in the program are exceptional, and in a small field such as genetic counseling, these relationships are always proving helpful in the “real world.” The city of Houston provided plenty of escapes from the grind of school – great restaurants, sports, museums, bars, shopping, theme parks ... basically anything you could think of wanting when needing to enjoy some well deserved breaks from school. – Carolyn Wilson ‘03

I thought that the program was well organized and gave the students plenty of opportunity to participate in all areas of genetic counseling such as counseling, research, presentations, and teaching. I liked that classes were primarily contained to the first year, so that the second year can focus on counseling skills. I also feel that the instructors are open to communicating with the students on a personal and professional level, preparing students for interactions with their peers and supervisors in the work setting. – Colleen Buechner ‘04

The program provides a student with the background information and confidence they need to become a practicing genetic counselor, in all aspects of the field. Throughout my training, I received support and guidance from the supervisors on how to improve my skills as a genetic counselor. In addition to providing students with the skills needed in clinic, the program allows for opportunities to explore the role for genetic counselors within non-traditional roles as well as in greater society. – Carol Linsner ‘04

The UT program provides a foundation in genetic and psychosocial counseling by creating a wonderful and supportive learning environment. I had valuable experiences that have helped me both on a professional and personal level. – Alice Schindler ‘04