Cohort of 2024
Hello! My name is Aparna Udiaver, and I am from Mississauga, Ontario.
I completed a Bachelor of Science degree with an honours specialization in genetics from Western University, as well as a Master’s degree in Public Health Genetics from the University of Pittsburgh. I was introduced to genetic counselling during my undergrad and was immediately drawn to the field because of my interests in medical genetics and the psychosocial components of health care. During my undergrad I volunteered with the Canadian Mental Health Association, where I developed supportive listening skills. I also got to learn about the lived experiences of children with genetic conditions through my volunteer work with ErinoakKids and The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh. For my Master’s practicum and essay, I worked with the Lynch Syndrome Screening Network to develop and conduct a research survey as well as interviews to understand Lynch syndrome screening practices internationally. Working on this project got me very interested in cancer genetics, as I learned the importance of tumour screening and germline testing in reducing the burden that inherited cancers can have on families.
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to pursue my genetic counselling education at UBC and look forward to contributing to this exciting field! Apart from my studies, I enjoy spending time in nature, travelling, journaling, and trying new recipes!