Cohort of 2023
My name is Madison, and I was born and raised in Windsor, Ontario. Prior to moving to Vancouver, I had lived in Windsor my entire life. I completed my BSc in Biology at the University of Windsor, where I graduated in 2021. I discovered genetic counselling toward the end of my undergraduate degree, after returning from an exchange semester in New Zealand. I was provided the opportunity to take an advanced genetics course during my time there; this class allowed me to expand my knowledge on both the etiology of various genetic conditions, and the relevance of this information in patients’ lives and experiences. Once inspired to pursue genetic counselling, I engaged in my community as an Outreach Worker for Family Services Windsor-Essex following graduation, where I worked closely with individuals experiencing homelessness. I assisted clients in obtaining and maintaining affordable housing, as well as accessing mental health services. I also spent over one year volunteering for Crisis Text Line as a Crisis Responder, which increased my desire to connect with others psychosocially. Other activities that have assisted me in preparing for graduate school in genetic counselling include volunteering for My Gene Counsel LLC, the Bulimia and Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA), the John McGivney Children’s Camp, and shadowing various cancer and prenatal genetic counsellors. I am extremely excited to have moved to such a beautiful city and cannot wait to embark on my genetic counselling journey throughout UBC’s phenomenal program.
In my free time I enjoy physical activity such as hiking, yoga, and playing tennis. I also love to read and bake new recipes!