Congratulations to the C/O 2013

I have been very fortunate to have made so many  friends throughout the graduate school experience and to have created connections with students in different programs.  So glad to have met all of you!

It doesn’t take a scientist (although I am one, actually a Master one) to notice all the graduation ceremonies popping up on Facebook.  So while we all  ”hood up” and celebrate our accomplishments, Maps & Genes wants to extend a “Congratulations!” to all of us, including the First Years becoming Second Years and the NEW First Years who were recently accepted.

I (Jade) also have  to post a “We Did It!” photo of my classmates and I on Graduation Day!

Coming Up: Perhaps some reflection posts (although we might be too tired to reflect, so no promises), and also a “What’s Next for m&g” post!

Genetic Counseling Thesis: An Interview with Olivia ((Interviewed by Jade))

Tweeted… document from X-Men: Days of Future Past (Copyright: Twitter/@bryansinger)

A whole lotta blood, sweat, and tears goes into graduate school, but, to a certain extent, the workload is relate-able.  We have been accustomed to exams for ages now.  We know how to work a library. We are not afraid of extracurricular opportunities, and even PubMed searches are becoming like an old friend.

However, at least for those of us earning our first master’s degree, Thesis is uncharted territory.   It is not required by all GC programs, but it is by most, and finished projects range from 50 to well over 100 pages of scientific goodstuff.   I decided to interview Olivia to provide some insight into the process, as well as a better understanding of the immense amount of work and re-work that the project demands.

1. Olivia, summarize your thesis in 3 sentences or less.

Fertility technologies such as sperm, oocyte, or embryo cryopreservation have recently been applied to assist cancer patients at risk of infertility due to cancer treatment or for gene positive individuals for whom removal of reproductive organs is indicated (think: BRCA carriers).  Because genetic counselors often see patients who are of reproductive age who may be candidates for these procedures, termed fertility preservation, I surveyed counselors for their interest and education needs regarding this topic. Overall, counselors were open to incorporating this subject into their sessions and wanted to learn more so they can be prepared to help guide an interested patient.

2. Why did this topic interest you?

 I really am intrigued by the application of new technology in the clinical setting. I used to work in a translational lab where the goal was to carry bench science findings into  eventual development as drug therapies for cancer patients and the curiosity has continued!

3. Were your results significant/What was learned?

Oncofertility is entering the realm of treatment and management of cancer care, the oncologist’s zone usually, so I wasn’t sure how open counselors would be to incorporating this discussion into their sessions. However, they were incredibly curious and eager to learn more, especially regarding subtopics that would help them identify who was most at risk and where to find resources. Developing an educational tool for any counselor to access when needed would be the next step in the project but it would also be interesting to hear the patient’s perspectives as well.

4. What part of thesis-writing made you want to pull your hair out?

I think thesis is difficult because it requires that you are aware of not only details (citations, making coherent sentences) but that you don’t lose sight of the big picture (goal of the thesis/hypothesis, take home message). It can be tiring zooming in and out again. Plus, it’s like a marathon. I don’t think I’ve ever worked on a project that long, ever.

5. What part of thesis-writing made you think maybe it was worth pulling your hair out?

 It felt really great to hear the responses to my survey and to my final paper. I’m a newbie to the field but I really am eager to show that I can contribute in some small way. It was a great introduction to research and to professional issues.  I look forward to continuing this project and doing a pilot of an educational tool in the (near) future.

6.  Impart some words of wisdom for future thesis writers.

 Be dedicated and try not to be discouraged. Set a writing schedule and a no-writing schedule (aka time to recharge) and STICK TO IT. Also, get someone who knows stats programs really well and become best friends.

Get more info here and here and, hey, here, here, here.  {These links provide examples of past student works from different programs.}

Francis Crick Interview (1993)

Thinking in a scientific way is not necessarily a natural way, it just happens to be a very effective way.  It’s not even very effective for one person, it must be groups of people.  Otherwise you get trapped in your own errors…One person is fallible.

Guest Post: How to Get Into (and Thrive in) Genetic Counseling Graduate Programs ((By Sarah))

The following is a guest post by a First-Year in my (Jade) program.  We’re glad to hear from you, Sarah —  take it away:

 

Graduate School.  Sounded intimidating.  Sounded like something that would be impossible to get into and that would then consume my life.

Well, that is what I thought when I was going through the application process anyway.  After numerous applications (I applied to 8 schools) and interviews (I chose to interview at 4), I remember feeling like I would never get accepted.  And, after reading the student biographies some schools posted (including my own) I was CONVINCED I would not get in.   However, I made it, and I am so glad that I did.

 

So, how do you get in?  That is the question I am sure every student applying would love to have answered.  Here are 3 tips you might find helpful:

 

1. Be Genuine.  It is important for you to be who you are.   And, you will be happier in your program if you are.  Every program has its differences and similarities.  You want a program that fits who you are.  I knew I wanted to be able to relate to people well, so a strong psychosocial aspect was key for me.  But it’s not for everyone and you will “feel that out” through the interview process.  And of course, make sure who you are is reflected in your application.

 

1.  Dress the Part.  This may sound less-important, but allow me to explain.  Graduate schools want someone who is serious about being a Genetic Counselor, which is why it is crucial to demonstrate your professionalism through appearance.  First impressions are crucial, and your attire is part of that first impression.  So, dress professionally [blazer/jacket + skirt/dress pants].  Dressing the part makes you look like you really want a place in a program.  Also, I would recommend a portfolio, so you can take notes, or write down questions to review for yourself pre-interview.  This will also help your feel more prepared and organized.

 

Sarah’s Interview Picks: Long skirt at least to the knee, shoes with low heels, simple bag and minimal jewelry, shirt with a non-revealing neckline, and a professional blazer.  Remember, if you wear a watch, do not keep peering down at it during your interview – you do not want to appear bored or uninterested!

 

3. Prepare a LOT OF QUESTIONS.  Nothing was more difficult than running out of questions to the question: What questions do you have for us?  Particularly since you’re trying not to ask every interviewer the same questions.  You need to get as much information as you can, so prepare a variety of questions that also reflect the specific program.

 

My favorite question:

How did you get into this profession?

 

Another helpful tip:

If you meet anyone you love, or really “hit it off” with while at an interview, GET HIS OR HER CONTACT INFO!  I am currently roommates with one of the girls I met, only once, at our interview.  She was able to remember my name and find me online.  And, of course, it is GREAT to know someone when you move 14 hours away from home to a strange place and find yourself having to make friends all over again!

 

Recommended Undergraduate Experiences: 

1. Anything in a healthcare setting (including volunteer work!)
2. Any laboratory experiences ( biology or psychology are very helpful)
3. If available, consider taking these courses: developmental biology, embryology, any classes related to cancer, cell biology, and an array of psychology courses [in addition to your prerequisites... of course]

 

Best of luck in your application journey!

-Sarah

 

Guest Post: Applying and Interviewing Advice from the Trenches

Hello potential genetic counseling students!

My name’s Austin and I am currently a first year genetic counseling student. Olivia asked me to share some information and tips on the process of applying and interviewing at graduate programs, so I’ve spent the last few days trying to remember what was helpful to me during a process that feels like it occurred so long ago (time flies when you’re having fun, as they say).

The first thing to think about is where to apply. There aren’t an overwhelming number of programs, but some important things to consider and do some research on are: the program “character” or philosophy, the school itself, and the geographical location. It can be difficult to find a program that perfectly fits all three of these criteria, but there are usually quite a few that get close enough to consider. I would also encourage applicants to apply to at least three schools, even if you have a clear-cut front-runner that you are interested in. The interview process is a great way to get a better feel for the programs that weren’t necessarily your top choice, and extra interview practice never hurt anyone.

But before we get to interviews, there’s the fun and exciting application process. Different programs have different requirements, so it’s important to become familiar with what they are asking for, and I would say you can never start too early on these. This is your first impression to a school and you want to put your best foot forward, so make sure to be concise while still communicating what you want them to know about you. Most schools have a written autobiography portion of the application, and you really want to make sure to highlight things about yourself here that will set you apart from others and show that you will be a stellar genetic counselor (extracurricular or volunteer activities, participation in advocacy programs, etc.). I would strongly recommend having several people (preferably with excellent grammar and editing skills, or people who have previously applied to graduate school) take a look over your written materials and talk with them about any feedback they have for you. Don’t feel like you have to incorporate ever piece of feedback you get – these documents represent you and you want to feel comfortable with what you’re submitting.

 Next Step: the Interview! Each school has different qualities that they are specifically looking for that they feel would best fit their program and these factor into choosing who they want to meet in person. Interviews can be exciting and nerve-racking but I think it’s important to remember that not only are they interviewing you, but you are also interviewing them. Try not to be nervous (impossible task for most I know, myself included), but remember that these interviews mean that they like what they know about you so far and are looking to get to know more. Come prepared with background knowledge about the school and the program and be ready to ask any questions that you have – interviewers LOVE questions (I’d definitely put more emphasis on quality rather than quantity here).

My technique was to try to anticipate what kind of questions were going to be asked and run through mock interviews with friends. Some basics you can pretty much count on are:

• Why do you want to be a genetic counselor?
• What about this program interests you?
• What are some characteristics that you have that you feel will make you a good genetic counselor?

There will of course be many more questions than those three, but I can’t spoil ALL of the fun for you. I find, from my own experience and talking with my classmates, if you have a good understanding of and have really thought through these three major questions, all of the other questions they throw at you will be much easier to answer. Interviews are also a great time to talk about your experiences shadowing a genetic counselor (which I think all programs require, but even if they don’t, should be something you’re doing). I think it shows that you have a clear understanding of how the profession operates, and that you know what you’re getting yourself into.

Finally, what happens if you either don’t get an interview, or you don’t get in? It can be kind of disheartening, but it’s important to know that a lot of people need to apply to graduate programs more than once before they get accepted. Genetic counseling is a very competitive field, and there aren’t that many programs (and a lot of those programs only accept a handful of students). If you didn’t get an interview, I would suggest reaching out to the contact person (usually the program director) and letting them know that you are still very interested in genetic counseling and in their program, and ask what you can do to make your application stronger for next year.

The same goes for if you had an interview but didn’t get in – I would contact the interviewers (either by email or phone), thank them for the opportunity to meet with them, express that you are still very interested in their program and ask what you can work on to strengthen your application for the next cycle of admissions. This will show them that not only are you mature enough to accept rejection (which we all have to do at some point), but also that you are undeterred in your pursuit of genetic counseling as a career.

Well folks, it’s been great to have the opportunity to share what I have learned through the process of applying and interviewing to genetic counseling graduate programs with you. I hope you all find at least some of what I was able to pass on to be helpful.

Best of luck and keep your chin up!

–Austin

15-year-old Invents New Method of Diagnosing Cancer #PancreaticCancerResearch

Instead of taking ‘duck-face’ pictures of yourself online…or posting food on Instagram…you could be changing the world.

The following video is an immensely inspiring story about a 15-year-old’s quest in cancer research.  This is especially pertinent as he is investigating early detection of pancreatic cancer — a notoriously sneaky cancer that is often found too late due to few or non-overt symptoms.

Pancreatic cancer is also linked to BRCA1/2 gene mutations associated with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) syndrome.  While the HBOC risk for pancreatic cancer is increased above that of the general population, it is often disheartening to admit to patients that we are not that great at detection with our current science.

Some will also remember that Carnegie Mellon professor, Randy Pausch, lost his battle to pancreatic cancer.  He is the speaker/author of the inspirational Last Lecture.

 

COMING UP NEXT MONTH: A guest post from a first-year classmate of mine regarding tips & tricks for interviewing with genetic counseling programs.  Many of our “m&g fans” have requested that we discuss How to Get In to Programs ….well, we hear you!

Happy New Year from M&G! How to Live Forever in 2013 and Other Medical Break-Throughs.

This is another info-graphic that we certainly cannot take credit for, but it seems like a fun way to ring in the New Year!  We wrote earlier about Living Forever, which is always a fun science-fiction topic that tip-toes towards real life application.

Living Forever.

Also from the World Wide Web, we bring you “Medical Innovations in the Next 10-20 Years.”  They discuss the developments in tissue regeneration and bionics (replacement eyeballs with 20/20 vision!).  To really glimpse into the astounding forefront of regenerative medicine, there is this Ted Talk that delineates where we’re headed.  Amazingly, we’re partly already there:

And what would a post about “The Future of (Genetics) Medicine” be without mention of human cloning.  Rightfully so, the controversy coats the application, however, they predict it could become reality by 2020.  Here, Discovery Channel talks Human Cloning.  I admit I have yet to watch the entire video, but the comments provide a glimpse of the emotionally-charged issue (again, rightfully so):

YouTube, Pinterest, and A Genetics Hodge Podge ((By Jade))

And…only one more semester to go!  (Anyone looking to hire two amazing genetic counselors, right out of the blocks?)

This post is simply a mash-up of genetics-related materials that I have been stockpiling.  And now that exams are over, and I have successfully driven 8 hours home, it is time to give WordPress a little attention:

To begin, this is a YouTube channel that I subscribed to in order to study for finals (it’s the new, mature way to study).  I believe this provides a clear description regarding epigenetics:

Next, here is a great new blog that details Genetic Counselling (the two “L” counselling) in South Africa.  I love their message of promotion.   They also tweet @GCNewsSA.

Thesis Update: I have proudly collaborated with the Hispanic Health Initiative at MUSC (Charleston).  I am so grateful to have their support and to collect some data from the participants.  Nothing has been analyzed thus far, but incoming data is a great boost during the long process that is thesis.

And finally, leave it to Pinterest to provide a clear explanation for Whole Exome Sequencing.

Jade + Olivia In Real Life! Plus, NSGC AEC Update

OK, so here’s our secret: Olivia and I had only actually met once in real life.  That time was during graduate school interviews, back in 2011.  But once was apparently enough, and we decided to become friends, keep in touch via phone and Skype, and start this blog.  (Is that weird??).  But (if that is, in fact, weird) as of last week’s NSGC AEC (Annual Education Conference) in Boston, we have officially met twice… and so we’re less ashamed to call ourselves long-distance-internet friends.  Now we’re just normal friends, and we have pictures to prove it.

In regard to the conference, we were both thrilled to not only see each other, but meet other students and professionals in the genetic counseling/medical genetics community.  And being in Boston wasn’t too bad, either!  The DNA Exchange put together a summary of some of the major emanating themes from the conference, including how we’re keeping pace with new technologies and our abilities to scale our competencies in niche areas.

In particular, I attended a lecture on pharmacogenomics (which Google still flags as a misspelled word because it’s so fancy).  The talk highlighted our initial misgivings about genetic counselors’ potential role in the field, but demonstrated how evolving medicine and pharmacology is providing greater than expected opportunities for our skills.  This, of course, melds with the increased availability of exome/whole genome sequencing and personalized medicine.  Essentially, personalized medicine is about to get a little more personal.

I’ll let Olivia add some more input about the conference and our experiences.  And since we have yet to post a single photo of us on this blog, I will now bombard you with 100 all at once.

 

 

 

17 Things You Should Know About DNA: from onlineeducation.net

We want to take credit for this…but, heck, that’d be wrong.  Dug this DNA infographic up from onlineeducation.net and thought it was worth sharing.  Enjoy!

via onlineeducation.net/dna