Student Profiles

Cohort of 2024

My name is Kate and I am from Barrie, Ontario. I graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario with a BSc Honours in Biology in 2023. 

Upon graduating, I completed a summer internship at the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute. Here, I worked in the Gibson Lab where I investigated epigenetic regulation of SETD1B in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. After this, I spent a year working as a clinical assistant in the Genetics Clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa, Ontario.

Apart from work and school, I volunteered on a crisis line with the Sexual Assault Centre in Kingston and facilitated a support group for individuals with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and their caregivers through the Colleen Cunningham Foundation. Besides genetics, I enjoy hiking, swimming, and spending time with friends.

Cohort of 2024

Hi! My name is Grace, and I am from Toronto, Ontario. I graduated from Queen’s University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Honours Biology and a minor in Health Studies. At Queen’s, I had the opportunity to be a research mentorship student in the Bendena lab, where I studied the role of specific neuropeptides in a receptor pathway in C. elegans to better understand the pathways involved in narcolepsy. During my third year of undergrad, I discovered genetic counselling. I instantly knew from the profession’s combination of genetics and providing care to patients that I wanted to pursue the career.

Following graduation, I worked in marketing and volunteered for the Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit at Women’s College Hospital (WCH) to gain further experience in genetics-related research. After working in marketing for a year, I became a research assistant for the Rapid Genetic Testing 2 Study at WCH – this study provides rapid genetic testing to women at the time of breast cancer diagnosis. This job expanded my knowledge of cancer genetics, research genetic counselling and working in patient-facing roles and reaffirmed my desire to be a genetic counsellor.

Additionally, to prepare for genetic counselling school, I volunteered for Swimming with a Mission, where I taught swimming lessons to children with disabilities, the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston crisis line and Crohn’s and Colitis Canada’s monthly peer support groups (acting as a peer support facilitator). These experiences furthered my passion for connecting with and supporting individuals. 

In my spare time, I enjoy travelling, baking, running, and spending time outdoors. I am so excited about what is ahead and to be a part of UBC’s Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2024!

Cohort of 2024

Hi, my name is Amy and I’m from Victoria, BC. I graduated from the University of Victoria where I was a part of the co-operative education program and earned a BSc Honours in Biochemistry with a focus in genetics. For my undergraduate degree, I wrote a thesis on my research in Dr. Chris Nelson’s lab on the evolution of protein paralogs Fpr3 and Fpr4 in budding yeast. My creative outlet during school was my part-time work as a dance teacher for young children which I eventually expanded on to teach dance to children on the autism spectrum as a form of group therapy. As I was finishing my degree, I began volunteering at an emotional support and crisis chat line supporting youth across Canada, as well as working at a transition house supporting survivors of brain injury. All of these experiences pushed me to pursue a career in genetic counselling where I could combine my interest in genetics and passion for directly caring for and supporting others.

I continued my roles at the crisis line and with survivors of brain injury after graduation, and I supplemented these experiences by volunteering at a transition house for women and children escaping domestic violence which gave me a well-rounded understanding of different challenges people may face. In August of 2023, I started a full-time position at the Vancouver Island Medical Genetics Clinic as their first genetic counselling assistant after having volunteered in the clinic for a year. There, I gained valuable experience on the process of arranging genetic testing, on the dynamics of a genetics clinic, and shadowing genetic counsellors.

In my spare time, I love to be outdoors, read a good book, or do anything artistic and creative. I’m so excited to take the next step in my career and be a part of the UBC Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2024!

Cohort of 2024

Hi there! My name is Kennedy and I came to Vancouver from Edmonton, Alberta. I graduated from MacEwan University with an BSc in molecular biology and a minor in psychology. Throughout my degree I volunteered as a crisis responder with Kids Help Phone and spent time in a volunteer peer support role at an addiction treatment center. These experiences molded my interpersonal skills, and gave me the confidence to support individuals from all walks of life. Igained exposure to the field of genetic counselling by seeking out time at the Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) clinic in Edmonton, where I was able to feel the emotional intensity and social complexity of prenatal genetics. This experience truly refreshed my own understanding of my ambition to become a genetic counsellor through igniting my passion for the psychological facets of the patient experience in healthcare. I then spent half a year working as a Genetics Assistant at the Edmonton Medical Genetics clinic before making the move to BC to begin my studies. In my free time I enjoy anything outdoorsy; mainly hiking, camping, and swimming in every body of water I come across. I’m so excited to be a part of the genetic counselling cohort of 2024!

Cohort of 2024

Hello! My name is Gabrielle Kowalchuk, and I am from Vancouver, BC. I graduated in 2022 with an Honours BSc. in Microbiology from the University of Victoria.

In the final year of my degree, I completed my thesis project at BC Cancer Victoria, where I investigated how alanine impacts T cell metabolism and function. After graduating, I continued to work in the lab as a research intern where I had the pleasure of designing and testing viral vectors for T cell genetic engineering. My research experience taught me so much about the value of collaboration, adaptability, and asking questions.

Around a year after graduating, I learned about genetic counselling, and quickly realized that it was exactly the kind of career I had been searching for. The discovery led me back to Vancouver, where I worked as a data entry clerk for the Provincial Newborn Screening Program. There, I had the opportunity to learn about screening, interact with diverse care providers, and work directly with a genetic counsellor. In preparation for the program, I also volunteered at both a crisis text line and women’s transition house. All of these experiences further solidified my desire to become a genetic counsellor.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, running, and relaxing by the water! I am so excited to be a part of the UBC program and look forward to learning from my instructors and peers.

Cohort of 2024

Hi, my name is Miya, and I am from Edmonton, Alberta. I graduated from MacEwan University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a minor in Chemistry.

During my undergraduate degree, I was employed as a Chemistry lab assistant and then as a research assistant working on microplastic quantification in environmental samples and, separately, antibiotic adsorption to sand. Although I was significantly involved in the chemistry department, I always felt called to biology, specifically genetics. I first heard about Genetic Counselling in a third-year genetics class that focused on social, ethical, and legal issues of genetic modification, prenatal testing, and other advancing technologies in genetics. Having a Genetic Counsellor guest lecture about how to work through an example case was a turning point for me, and I knew that was what I wanted to be. Additionally, after being introduced to informed consent in this same class, it resonated with me as an essential subject in the healthcare system. I decided to write an essay on this topic for another class, and my paper was published in the MacEwan University Student eJournal in 2022.

After graduating, I volunteered as a Victim Services Advocate, providing emotional support to victims of crime. This role honed my advocacy skills and taught me the importance of remaining calm and collected in high-stress situations. It was an enriching experience that reinforced my desire to become a Genetic Counsellor, a role where I can use my empathy and resilience to support individuals.

Most recently, I trained as a Clinical Genetics Technologist at BCIT. I learnt how to identify and analyze chromosomes with possible abnormalities and perform cytogenetic and molecular tests to be used by clinicians for patient diagnosis.

When I’m not immersed in the world of genetics, I enjoy reading, crafting, exploring coffee shops, and spending time with my loved ones. I am thrilled to join UBC’s Genetic Counselling cohort of 2024, where I can further my passion and contribute to the field.

Cohort of 2024

Hello! My name is Lauren, and I was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta. I completed my BSc in Honours Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at the University of Alberta in 2023. During my degree, I completed two undergraduate thesis projects studying bacterial genetics and RNA sequencing.

Throughout my undergraduate program, I had the pleasure of working on both local and national crisis lines with the Canadian Mental Health Association and 988 Canada, where I provided supportive listening and crisis intervention to people experiencing mental health crises in my community. Following graduation, I was lucky to have had the opportunity to work as a Genetics Assistant at the Edmonton Medical Genetics Clinic and be directly involved in patient care. I loved getting to know my patients, hearing about their experiences within the healthcare system, and observing the genetic counselling process in action. Both experiences helped to increase my awareness and understanding of the variety of backgrounds and perspectives that people can have, emphasizing the uniqueness of each person’s circumstances and the need for patience and compassion in patient-centred care.

In my spare time, I love spending time with friends and family, travelling, baking, figure skating, and being outside. I am grateful to be a part of the UBC Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2024 and I look forward to expanding my knowledge and genetic counselling skills over the course of my career.

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!

Cohort of 2025

My name is Janel and I’m from Kitchener, Ontario. I graduated from the University of Waterloo’s co-operative education program with a Bachelor of Science in Honours Biology and a specialization in molecular genetics. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I had the pleasure of working as a genetic counselling assistant at both Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in their Cancer Genetics and High Risk Program and at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in the Bhalwani Familial Cancer Clinic. A personal connection to hereditary disorders drew me to the field of genetic counselling, while my experience working in genetic clinics and interacting with patients strengthened my desire to pursue this profession. 

Following graduation, I volunteered at a local counselling organization, Compass Community Services, as a support line operator. Connecting with individuals and offering support deepened my ability to provide compassionate care. I returned to University Health Network in a volunteer capacity, assisting at Fred A. Litwin Family Centre in Genetic Medicine and again at the Bhalwani Familial Cancer Clinic. 

Recently, I began as a research assistant at Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael’s Hospital, focusing on identifying racial disparities in cancer genetic services. Increasing access to genetic services through understanding and addressing barriers to care, while centering diverse patient perspectives, is something I am so excited to contribute to. 

I’m an avid thrifter, and otherwise spend my time trying new recipes or playing board games with friends! I am thrilled to be a part of UBC’s Genetic Counselling program and to take the next step in my longstanding goal of becoming a genetic counsellor.

Cohort of 2025

Hello! My name is Melanie and I’m from Peterborough, Ontario. I graduated from Trent University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science Honours in Biomedical Science with a specialization in health sciences.

I learned about genetic counselling in grade 12 and was excited to find a field that combined two interests of mine: genetics and supporting others. As I learned more about genetic counselling, medical genetics, and patient care throughout my undergrad and other experiences, I knew that it was the career I wanted to pursue.

While finishing my undergrad and following graduation, I volunteered with a distress hotline, providing emotional support to individuals in distress, which helped me to expand my interpersonal skills and gain an understanding of challenges that people may face. I also volunteered with the Bhalwani Familial Cancer Clinic at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, which gave me my first hands-on experience and exposure to genetic counselling. Most recently, I worked as a Genetic Assistant at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, where my responsibilities included facilitating genetic testing by creating requisitions, arranging sample collection, and communicating with patients, family members, and laboratories. I was also involved in a research project investigating the impact of upfront genetic testing (“Mainstreaming”) on patient wait times; this project was something that I worked on throughout my time as a GA and deepened my understanding of research and quality improvement in genetics healthcare, which I will take with me into my career as a genetic counsellor.

Over the years, I had the pleasure of observing many genetic counselling sessions, which taught me about different genetic conditions, the structure of genetic counselling sessions, and more.  Each case that I observed solidified my decision to become a genetic counsellor because of my longstanding desire to support others and my fascination with genetics.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time outside, exploring new places, camping, reading a suspenseful book, and baking! I’m so excited to be a part of the UBC Genetic Counselling cohort of 2025 and look forward to furthering my education and contributing to the field.

Cohort of 2025

Hi! My name is Abby, and I’m from Toronto, Ontario! I graduated from McMaster University with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Genetics in 2024. At McMaster I discovered my passion for genetics, and conducted an honours thesis on the genetic basis of creativity. Outside of the classroom, I competed as a Varsity Athlete on the McMaster University Varsity Swim Team, and shared my love for athletics through my role as a swim coach. 

Throughout my undergrad and in the time following, I volunteered as a crisis responder for Kids Help Phone, and worked as a Research Assistant on the GENOMETRICS team led by Dr. Robin Hayeems at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). In this role I contributed to various studies exploring the impact of genomic screening and diagnostic technologies on clinical care, the patient experience, and the broader healthcare system. The opportunity to present this research at various conferences was an experience that introduced me to the collaborative spirit and forward-thinking nature of the genetic counselling community. This role strengthened my understanding of genetic testing and the patient experience, including the complexities of genomic decision-making.

In my spare time, I enjoy going to workout classes and trying new restaurants with friends, and am excited to explore everything that Vancouver has to offer! I’m thrilled to be starting this next chapter as a student in UBC’s Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2025!

Cohort of 2025

Hello! My name is Sarah Hay, and I was born and raised in St. Albert, Alberta. I graduated from the University of Alberta in 2025 with a BSc Honours degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. 

During my undergraduate program, I had the opportunity to complete a thesis project under Dr. Andrew Waskiewicz studying neurodevelopmental genetics – specifically surrounding the growth and expansion of the craniofacial skeleton. In the final year of my undergraduate degree, I worked with Dr. Toshifumi Yokota alongside the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute, developing antisense oligonucleotide therapies for rare genetic disorders like Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This experiences allowed me to further understand how a genetic condition affects a patient and their family, and the unique role that genetic counsellors play in supporting and empowering patients through complex emotional and medical decisions. In combination with genetics research, I was also a supportive listener at the Peer Support Centre, providing emotional support to other members of the campus community and learning the profound impact a supportive listener can have on someone’s life. 

Apart from genetics, I love running, reading fantasy, and playing pickleball. I’m so excited to be a member of the 2025 UBC Genetic Counselling Cohort and look forward to the opportunities to come! 

Cohort of 2025

Hello! My name is Dania Kallas, and I’m from Vancouver, BC. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Experimental Medicine from the University of British Columbia.

During my Master’s, I had the opportunity to study a rare inherited arrhythmia known as catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT), which can cause sudden cardiac death in children. My thesis focused on identifying risk factors for early-onset disease and exploring potential genetic modifiers in pediatric CPVT. 

Since completing my degree, I’ve worked as a Cardiac Electrophysiology Research Coordinator at BC Children’s Hospital, where I lead and manage the International Pediatric CPVT Registry. Being surrounded by inspiring mentors and world leaders in cardiac genetics has shaped my deep interest in genetic counselling. I’ve been privileged to work closely with CPVT patients and their families, witnessing firsthand the challenges of navigating rare genetic diagnoses. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the critical role genetic counsellors play in empowering families with knowledge, compassion, and support.

I’m especially passionate about cardiogenetics, preimplantation genetic testing, and improving access to genetic care for rural and marginalized communities.

Outside of work, I enjoy discovering new coffee shops and going for walks in nature—with a cup in hand and loved ones by my side. I also enjoy skating and sewing, two hobbies I’m always trying to make more time for.

I’m very excited to be joining UBC’s Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2025 and look forward to learning, growing, and building meaningful connections with my classmates and mentors!

Cohort of 2025

Hello! My name is Beth and I am from Barrie, Ontario. In 2022, I graduated from the University of Toronto with an Honours BSc. in Genome Biology and Health & Disease. 

During university, I discovered genetic counselling after a guest lecturer from Princess Margaret spoke to my class. By the end of the lecture, I knew this profession was what I wanted to pursue in my life. 

After graduating, I had the opportunity to work alongside the same genetic counsellor who introduced me to this world as a genetic counselling assistant at the Bhalwani Familial Cancer Clinic at Princess Margaret. Following this experience, I continued my journey by working with the Donor & Surrogacy and Genetics team at Markham Fertility Centre. These roles allowed me to gain clinical experience in cancer and reproductive genetics, deepening my passion for genetic counselling. 

Throughout my work experiences, I also volunteered with Kids Help Phone as a crisis responder. I learned counselling techniques and enhanced my emotional intelligence while providing support to a breadth of individuals. 

My personal interests include biking, swimming, reading, and playing volleyball. I am so excited to grow personally and professionally in the UBC Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2025!

Cohort of 2025

Hello! My name is Crystal, and I am from Toronto, Ontario. I graduated from the University of Toronto in 2023 with an Honours BSc, specializing in Molecular Genetics and minoring in Psychology.

During my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to conduct research in the labs of Dr. Thomas Hurd and Dr. Miguel Ramalho-Santos, where I developed both my understanding of developmental genetics and my passion for research. Wanting to engage more deeply with communities beyond the lab and classroom, I began volunteering with the Toronto Rape Crisis Centre’s crisis line, where I developed a deep appreciation of counselling and psychosocial care. It was during this time that I realized my desire to pursue genetic counselling — a field that intertwines my passion for genetics with interpersonal connection and psychosocial support.

After graduation, I pursued an MSc in Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia in the lab of Dr. Anna Lehman, where I expanded my understanding of rare disease genetics. During my Master’s, I had the opportunity to characterize a novel congenital malformation syndrome and gained experience in variant reclassification.

In my free time, I enjoy being at the beach, exploring coffee shops around the city, and visiting local markets. As I enter the Genetic Counselling Cohort of 2025, I am excited to continue learning how to best support patients while deepening my understanding of medical genetics.