Meet Our Students

2026

Stephanie Alsay

Undergrad: Florida International University, Liberal Studies

Stephanie Alsay was born and raised in the Philippines. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Florida International University in 2020 with a BA in Liberal Studies. Her upbringing shaped her global identity and passion for diversity of both patients and providers in clinical genetics. As a postgraduate, Stephanie has traveled all over the US helping hospitals implement their electronic health record. As an implementation manager, Stephanie's desire to play a more integral role in healthcare led her to the University of Miami, where she supported geneticists and genetic counselors. She has volunteered with Crisis Text Line, the Lupus Foundation, and the Williams Syndrome Association. During her downtime, Stephanie indulges her adventurous spirit through scuba diving, culinary exploration, and the serenity of yoga.

Mirela Birta

Undergrad: Business Administration

Mirela Birta was born and raised in Romania. She came to the U.S. in 2001 after receiving a BA in Business Administration. She completed her prerequisites at Oakton Community College, Harper College, and Northwestern School of Professional Studies. While taking the prerequisites, she interned with the Lurie Cancer Center in Neurosurgery. Mirela has volunteered at orphanages in Romania, working with children with disabilities. Her mother's legacy in helping others catalyzed her founding of the Spera Foundation. This organization grants scholarships to disadvantaged Romanian children. She also co-founded the Romanian United Foundation, where she teaches math to elementary school students. Mirela serves on the Symposium Committee of the Illinois Society of Genetic Professionals. In her leisure, she enjoys power walks and spending time with her family and friends.

Allie Casey

Undergrad: Arizona State University, Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology), Minor: Spanish

Allie Casey graduated from Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University, in 2024 with a BS in Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology) and a Minor in Spanish. At ASU, she worked as a Student Success Coach, supporting hundreds of students in navigating college life through academics, finances, personal struggles, and more. Additionally, she was a Devils' Advocate tour guide for three years and served on the executive board as a senior, where she trained two hundred tour guides to share their stories with prospective students and families. In 2023, she furthered her passion for genetics by interning with Columbia University through their Pre-Genetic Counselor Experiential Practicum. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, crocheting, watching "New Girl" on repeat, and hanging out with friends.

Kylee Chenault

Undergrad: Indiana University, Community Health, Minors: Gerontology and Social Sciences and Medicine

Kylee Chenault graduated from Indiana University in 2023 with a BS in Community Health with double minors in Gerontology and Social Sciences and Medicine. During her undergraduate studies, she interned on the crisis line at Middle Way House, a shelter for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking and participated in public health research, analyzing social media and mpox. She also volunteered for Indiana University Dance Marathon, a student-led philanthropy that fundraises for Riley Hospital for Children. After graduating, Kylee continued involvement with Riley by working as a genetic counseling assistant for their inpatient genetics team. There, she was an integral part of their whole genome sequencing project. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, live music, and trying new foods.

Kuri Cho

Undergrad: Boston College, Biology, Minor: Sociology

Kuri Cho graduated from Boston College in 2024 with a BS in Biology and a minor in Sociology. She worked as an EMT, Crisis Counselor, Planned Parenthood Counseling & Referral Specialist, and music director for her all-female identifying a capella group. During her time in undergrad, she completed independent research through the McNair Scholars program focused on the ethics of CAR T-cell immunotherapy clinical trials and the intersection of BIPOC health equity. She also worked as a research assistant at Ascension Health Center in Baltimore and focused on the echocardiogram outputs and COVID-19 patients. She found her passion for genetics and health equity through the culmination of her life, academic, and professional experiences. She loves to explore new restaurants, karaoke with friends, and be active.

Zel Djukic

Undergrad: University of Illinois at Chicago, Biology, Minor: Psychology

Zel Djukic graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2019 with a BS in Biology and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she held multiple positions on her sorority’s executive board and continued her passion for volunteering through Ronald McDonald House Charities, the MS Society, and the Crisis Counseling Hotline at UIC. Post graduation, she was a research technologist for the Northwestern Medicine Transplant Department where she gained an interest in expanding genetic counseling services for transplant patients and their families. She transitioned into a role as a genetic counseling assistant at a PGT laboratory where she was responsible for all incoming case reviews and coordination. In her free time, Zel enjoys baking and staying active through weightlifting, hiking, and playing tennis.

Brady Evans

Undergrad: University of Denver, Biological Sciences, Minors: English & Literary Arts, Chemistry and Psychology

Brady Evans graduated from the University of Denver in 2022 with a BS in Biological Sciences and minors in English & Literary Arts, Chemistry and Psychology. As an undergraduate, she interned as a STEM Mentor and in Dr. Timothy Ley’s lab at Washington University in St. Louis studying mutations associated with acute myeloid leukemia. After graduating, Brady worked as a Clinical Research Associate at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSKCC) working on therapeutic and non-therapeutic clinical trials. She enjoyed collaborating with oncologists, geneticists, clinical trial nurses, and other research staff on investigational therapies in prostate cancer and loved volunteering on the pediatric oncology floor with MSK Kids. Beyond genetic counseling, Brady loves to spend time with family and friends, try new neighborhood spots, and teach yoga classes!

Jocelyn Fournier

Undergrad: Endicott College, Biology/Biotechnology, Minor: English

Jocelyn Fournier graduated from Endicott College in 2021 with a BS in Biology/Biotechnology and a minor in English. As an undergraduate, she worked per diem as a nursing assistant in the education department at New England Pediatric Care. After graduating, she worked as a Research Coordinator at Brigham and Women’s Hospital for the BWH Biobank while assisting with the development of a genetic study called eMERGE. She then worked for eMERGE for over two years. Additionally, she volunteered with a crisis text line, observed a support group through the organization FORCE, took an Intensive Elementary Spanish course, and volunteered as a teaching assistant for an Irish step dancing group. She enjoys spending time with friends, reading, traveling, and live music.

Roman Grossi

Undergrad: Michigan State University, Neuroscience

Roman Grossi graduated from Michigan State University in May 2021 with a BS in Neuroscience. During his undergraduate studies, Roman volunteered as an advocate and served on the executive board of the Center for Survivors’ Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention Team. After graduating, he continued volunteering as a crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line, worked as a clinical research assistant exploring the therapeutic effects of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and worked as a research assistant at Detroit’s Karmanos Cancer Institute aiming to reduce the financial burden of cancer treatment cost. Roman is passionate about providing personalized health education and maximizing accessibility to genetic counseling services. In his free time, Roman enjoys playing piano, watching old horror movies, and hiking.

McKenzie Hammer

Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Social Work

McKenzie Hammer graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2017 with a Bachelor’s of Social Work. Upon graduation, McKenzie joined the Peace Corps in Botswana as an HIV/AIDS Capacity Building volunteer. After completing her service, she received a certification of Advanced Studies in Biology from Northwestern University. She has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, most recently as a medical assistant in an OB-GYN private practice in Chicago’s south suburbs. McKenzie has a passion for service and is fascinated by the bio-psycho-social intersectionalities within patient care. She is committed to making medical innovation not only accessible to all patients, but also advantageous to their health and wellbeing. In her free time, McKenzie loves traveling to new places, concerts, and painting.

Zach Haugstad

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Genetics and Genomics, Neurobiology

Zach Haugstad graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2022 with a BS in Genetics and Genomics as well as Neurobiology. At UW-Madison, he worked as an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Akihiro Ikeda’s lab where he utilized mouse models to study genes involved in age-related diseases. After graduating, Zach went on to work as a clinical Genetic Counseling Assistant at the Mayo Clinic, where he supported General, Cancer, and Prenatal Genetic Counselors. He later helped develop a Pediatric GCA role and served on his department’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. Zach also volunteers with The Trevor Project as a Youth Crisis Counselor. In his free time, he enjoys playing tennis, going to concerts, and trying new coffee shops.

Jenny Li

Undergrad: University of California, San Diego, Molecular and Cell Biology, Minor: Psychology

Jenny Li graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2022 with a BS in Molecular and Cell Biology and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she worked as a research assistant in the Wilkinson Lab studying the impact of gene regulatory circuits in reproductive health and in the Sigurdson Lab studying prion diseases. After graduating, she worked as a research associate at a biotech company developing AAV-based gene therapies and began volunteering with Crisis Text Line. She also volunteered with SHEKonnect, a local non-profit working with teenage girls experiencing the loss of their mothers, and with the UCSF Cancer Genetic and Prevention Program as a genetic counseling assistant intern. In her free time, Jenny enjoys dancing, ice skating, and watching K-dramas.

Krissy McGee

Undergrad: Northwestern University, Neuroscience and Biology

Krissy McGee graduated from Northwestern University in 2024 with a BA in Neuroscience and Biology. As an undergraduate, she was an engaged member of the Knight Community Scholars identity group and was recognized as a Trailblazer in the FGLI community. She assisted and conducted research in social psychology and educational policy at the Destin lab and served as a teaching assistant for introductory neuroscience classes. She worked with the eMERGE project as a research assistant and on the Osher NRC team as a Zoom Moderator. She interned in Northwestern’s Summer Experiential Workshop and as a GCA with Lisa Castillo, MS, CGC. In addition, she was the president and co-founder of the Genetic Counseling Club. In her free time, Krissy enjoys playing video games.

Keegan Miller

Undergrad: University of California, San Diego, Global Health

Keegan Miller graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2024 with a BS in Global Health. As an undergraduate, he volunteered for It’s on Us Survivor Support Director working as a peer liaison for survivors of sexual violence. In his time as a Peer Health Educator, Keegan helped lead substance abuse and sexual health initiatives on campus including a World AIDS Day event and Naloxone Distribution Program. Also a Lead RISE Ambassador connecting students with mental health support and education, he led a campus project to expand access to mental health resources for underrepresented and underprivileged students. In his free time, you can catch Keegan checking out live music, watching old rom-coms, or rock climbing.

Liliana Perez

Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Minor: Anthropology

Liliana Perez graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2021 with a BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology and a minor in Anthropology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered in hospice care and worked as a tutor at the campus office for minority students' affairs. After graduation, she moved back to Chicago and spent three years working as a hereditary cancer patient advocate at Myriad Genetics. As an advocate, she reviewed and assisted genetic testing orders placed by genetic counselors nationwide. During this time, her passion for reaching Spanish-speaking and minority communities grew. She loves to spend time with her family, binge-watch a new show, and explore the city.

Lucy Richards

Undergrad: Michigan State University, Genomics and Molecular Genetics

Lucy Richards graduated from Michigan State University in 2020 with a BS in Genomics and Molecular Genetics. As an undergraduate, she studied the adaptive immunity and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen commonly infecting individuals with cystic fibrosis. During this time, she discovered her passion for the field of genetic counseling. Following graduation, Lucy became a front-line worker as a laboratory aid in Northern Michigan during the COVID-19 pandemic. She then transitioned to become a genetic counseling assistant at Hoag Hospital’s Cancer Center in Orange County, California where she helped to advocate for patients with a genetic predisposition for pancreatic cancer. You can usually find her enjoying art, at a concert, or having a relaxing night watching movies in her spare time.

Sophia Salemi

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison, Genetics & Genomics, Minor: Global Health

Sophia Salemi graduated with distinction from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2023 with a BS in Genetics & Genomics and a minor in Global Health. As an undergraduate, she was a Pre-Genetic Counseling Organization executive board member, taught cooking/fitness classes to children with Down syndrome, volunteered with Northwest Special Recreation Association, was a student notetaker for McBurney Disability Resource Center, and volunteered at Central Wisconsin Center – an intellectual disability respite care facility. After graduation, Sophia was a research specialist in the Center for Human Genomics and Precision Medicine at the Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research. Additionally, she advocates for rare disease patients as a Wisconsin Young Adult Rare Disease Representative. When able, Sophia enjoys traveling with her family and trying new vegan recipes/restaurants.

Lydia Storm

Undergrad: University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Biochemistry, Minor: Psychology

Lydia Storm (she/her/hers) graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2024 with a BS in Biochemistry and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she conducted molecular genetics research, taught a general genetics laboratory, volunteered with Planned Parenthood, welcomed new students as an orientation leader, and participated in a Pre-Health study abroad trip to Rwanda, Africa. Additionally, Lydia was a Co-Founder and President of the Pre-Genetic Counseling Club and a participant in the Genetic Counseling Career Research and Exploration Workshop offered by the Medical College of Wisconsin. She is passionate about advocacy, which she incorporated as a peer educator providing information on sexual assault and relationship violence. Beyond genetic counseling, Lydia loves traveling, playing board games, and spending time with friends/family.

Mikayla Walsh

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin–Madison, Genetics and Genomics, Certificate: Health and the Humanities

Mikayla Walsh graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2022 with a BS in Genetics and Genomics and a certificate in Health and the Humanities. As an undergrad, she worked on the Tiny Earth Research Project and volunteered with Badger Cru as a connect group leader and peer mentor. Upon graduating, Mikayla worked at Invenra, a biotech company focused on discovering and developing therapeutic bispecific antibodies. Mikayla also served as the Survivor Support Specialist for the EmBark Foundation, where she counseled local trauma survivors and supported their rescue animal adoptions and Emotional Support Animal certifications. In her free time, Mikayla enjoys reading and puzzles, attending concerts and finding new music, going on walks, and spending time with friends and family.

Chiu Yuan

Undergrad: Boston University, Biology

Chiu Yuan was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan. She graduated cum laude from Boston University in 2019 with a BA in Biology. As an undergraduate, she worked as a learning assistant for a physics course and volunteered at the Zhi-Shan Foundation in Taiwan during the summers. Following graduation, Chiu-Hsiang served as a research assistant at the Boston University School of Medicine, worked as a clinical research assistant at Penn Medicine, and volunteered at the American Red Cross. Subsequently, she transitioned to a role as a genetic counseling assistant at Boston Children's Hospital. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, going for easy long runs, and spending quality time with friends and family.

2027

Pooja Banglorewala

Undergrad: University of Western Ontario, Genetics

Pooja Banglorewala graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 2024 with an Honors Specialization in Genetics. Although Canadian, she spent most of her life living in different countries across Asia. During her undergraduate years, she supported students as a residence mentor and volunteered with Crisis Text Line. She gained clinical experience through internships at the Victoria Hospital Genetic Clinic and SickKids, where she worked on projects involving prenatal testing and secondary findings. After graduation, she became a Genetic Counseling Assistant at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Leukodystrophy Center, where she supports families affected by rare neurogenetic conditions. Outside of work, Pooja enjoys city adventures, watching sitcoms, and drinking lots of coffee.

Savannah Bevill

Undergrad: Michigan State University, Human Biology

Savannah Bevill graduated from Michigan State University in 2023 with a BS in human biology. Throughout her undergraduate studies she volunteered as a sexual assault hotline advocate through the MSU Center for Survivors and worked as a nanny. After graduating, Savannah relocated to Chicago and began working full-time as a dermatology medical assistant, where she gained valuable experience in patient care and developed confidence interacting with patients and providers in a clinical setting. As an MA, she discovered her passions in healthcare which include decreasing gaps in knowledge/trust between patients and providers, increasing accessibility, and providing the best quality of care. Outside of working, Savannah enjoys trying new restaurants with her friends, listening to music, and going to the gym.

Samantha Bolter

Undergrad: University of Michigan, Biochemistry

Samantha Bolter graduated from the University of Michigan with a BS in Biochemistry and a pre-health focus in 2021. As an undergraduate she served as a site leader for multiple Alternative Spring Break trips on a variety of topics, sparking her passion for social justice and activism. She also served as her sorority president. Following graduation, she pursued a teaching certificate and spent three years teaching Chemistry and Forensic Science in Metro Detroit. Throughout her time as a high school teacher, she served as the after-school science club advisor and the building union representative. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with her cats, attending trivia nights, and going for long walks while listening to her favorite songs.

Corinne Child

Undergrad: The George Washington University, Biological Science, Minors: Chemistry and Psychology

Corinne Child graduated from The George Washington University in 2024 with a BS in Biological Science and minors in Chemistry and Psychology. During this time, she worked at a COVID testing lab as a research assistant for and NIH pediatric health and development study. Additionally, Corinne conducted independent research examining the effects of an induced mutation on an immunoregulatory protein. Since graduating, she has been working at Davita Kidney Care as a patient technician while volunteering on Crisis Text Line. Corinne’s passion for genetic counseling stems from these experiences, combined with a personal investment in her family’s genetic predispositions. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching her favorite shows, spending time with friends, and discovering new cafés andbookstores.

Nicole Debrauwere

Undergrad: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Minor: Psychology

Nicole Debrauwere graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2024 with a BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she was a founding member of the Pre-Genetic Counseling Club and secretary who helped plan events and boosted member engagement. After graduation, she worked as a Patient Service Representative in the Department of Genomic Medicine at Lutheran General Hospital. In her role, she collaborated with coworkers, helped educate and schedule patients, and shadowed in variousspecialties. Additionally, she volunteered as a program leader and math tutor at Gigi’s Playhouse and as a crisis counselor for Crisis Text Line. In her free time, Nicole enjoys traveling, gardening, and spending time with friends, family, and her dog.

Sabrina Dordevic

Undergrad: Grinnell College, Biology and Anthropology
Graduate: Western Governors University, Public Health

Sabrina Dordevic was the first person in her family to be born in the U.S., with her parents and older sisters immigrating from ex-Yugoslavia (Serbia). She graduated from Grinnell College in 2024 with a double majorBA in Biology and Anthropology with honors. Upon graduating, she became a volunteer crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line and continued working as a certified sterile processing technician for Advocate Aurora Health Condell Hospital in Libertyville, Illinois. She completed her prerequisites during this time at Oakton Community College and theUniversity of California, Los Angeles. Upon finishing these prerequisites, she began her Master of Public Health degree through Western Governors University in February 2025. Aside from her academic ambitions, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her friends, café-hopping, playing video games, and watching movies in her free time.

Adrian Farmer

Undergrad: University of Missouri–St. Louis, Biology

Adrian Farmer was born and raised in East St. Louis, Illinois. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Growing up in an underserved community shaped Adrian’s dedication to healthcare equity and inspired his pursuit of genetic counseling. He has volunteered with Crisis Text Line and the House of Mary, offering support to individuals facing emotional and life challenges. His experience as a crisis counselor strengthened his passion for patient-centered care. Adrian has also worked in quality control laboratories, where he developed systems to improve equipment management and workflow efficiency. In his free time, Adrian enjoys exploring new video games, studying Mandarin Chinese, and watching anime.

Laura Johnson

Undergrad: University of Guelph, Zoology
Graduate: Saint Mary’s University, Applied Science (Molecular Ecology)

Laura Johnson was born and raised in Canada. She earned her BS in Zoology from the University of Guelph and her MS in Applied Science with a concentration in Molecular Ecology from Saint Mary’s University. Following her graduate degree, she worked in wildlife genetics, managing molecular laboratories and contributing to population genetic research of insects and large carnivores. She also worked as a Forensic DNA Analyst, assisting law enforcement with poaching investigations and predator attack cases. Laura’s advocacy work has included volunteering as a crisis counselor with both the Crisis Text Line and RAINN, as well as supporting underserved populations as a pharmacy assistant at the Laramie Downtown Clinic. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, exploring new places, and spending time with family and friends.

Jasmeet Kaur

Undergrad: University of Hertfordshire, Biochemistry
Graduate: Imperial College London, Genomic Medicine

Jasmeet Kaur was born and raised in the United Kingdom, where she earned a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Hertfordshire and went on to complete an MSc in Genomic Medicine at Imperial College London. During her postgraduate studies, she explored the ethical, legal, and social implications of genetic testing in adopted children, examining whether their unique circumstances warrant such testing. Alongside her academic studies, she has volunteered for the Imperial Health Charity, engaging with patients in recovery. She currently serves as a listening volunteer for Samaritans, a crisis line, providing emotional support to those navigating mental health challenges. Beyond Genetic Counselling, Jasmeet is an avid traveler and a passionate foodie who enjoys playing video games and getting lost in a good fantasy book!

Angela Khong

Undergrad: McMaster University, Life Sciences, Minors: Biology and Psychology

Angela Khong was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She graduated from McMaster University in 2024 with a BSc in Life Sciences, Honors and a double minor in Biology and Psychology. During her undergraduate studies, Angela volunteered as a distress responder for the Distress Centre of Greater Toronto and as a Mentor with Empowerment Squared to help underserved youths. She also gained hands-on experience assisting patients at Grace Health Centre, a family medicine and psychotherapy clinic, under the supervision of Dr. Susana Huang as a Medical Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator. There, she founded the Compassionate Care Foundation to enhance volunteer-patient experience. After graduating, Angela interned with the John Hopkins Genetic Counseling Internship to further explore her interest. In her free time, Angela enjoys exercising, going to live concerts, exploring cafes and restaurants and trying new recipes in the kitchen.

Sophie Krantz

Undergrad: University of Michigan, Biology, Health, and Society, Minor: Gender and Health

Sophie Krantz graduated from the University of Michigan in 2025 with a BS in Biology, Health, and Society and a minor in Gender and Health. At UMich, she served as a crisis counselor at an at-risk youth shelter, advocated for accessible genetic testing as an intern with JScreen, and volunteered in the neurology ICU at Michigan Medicine. Sophie spent her summers gaining clinical experience as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Northwell Health Cancer Institute in Long Island. With a growing passion for pediatrics, she also worked as a camp counselor to teach science to elementary and middle school girls. Outside of genetic counseling, Sophie loves spending time outdoors, staying active, baking, and discovering new restaurants with friends!

Allison Meehan

Undergrad: Colorado State University, Biomedical Sciences (Anatomy and Physiology), Minor: Sociology, Certificate: Youth Mentoring

Allison Meehan graduated Cum Laude from Colorado State University (CSU) in 2025 with a BS in Biomedical Sciences, concentrating in Anatomy and Physiology, and a minor in Sociology. She also received a certificate in Youth Mentoring through her involvement with CSU’s Campus Connections program, which offers support and therapeutic services to local youth facing challenges. As an undergraduate, Allie interned as a genetic counseling assistant at Clover Genetics and contributed to genomics research in Dr. Leslie Stone-Roy’s lab, studying correlations between nematode ortholog mutations and human pathologies. She also volunteered at Banner Medical Center and on the crisis line at CSU’s Survivor Advocacy and Feminism Education (SAFE) Center. She enjoys exploring new restaurants, rewatching Grey’s Anatomy, and spending time with family and friends.

Madeline Morland

Undergrad: Lake Forest College, Biology, Minor: Spanish

Madeline Morland was born and raised in Colorado and graduated from Lake Forest College in 2023 with a major in Biology and a minor in Spanish. As an undergraduate, she was a member of the cross country and track teams, interned with Planned Parenthood, volunteered at Lake Forest Hospital, and supported biology students as a peer tutor. She deepened her interest in genetic counseling shadowing professionals at the Maternal/Fetal Center at Presbyterian St. Luke’s in Denver. After graduation, Madeline worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Northwestern University in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, where she oversaw weight loss studies. This role strengthened her passion for quality, patient-centered care. In her free time, Madeline enjoys running along the lakefront, reading, and exploring Chicago.

Meghan Nguyen

Undergrad: University of California San Diego, Marine Biology, Minor: General Biology

Meghan Nguyen graduated from the University of California San Diego in 2025 with a BS in Marine Biology and a minor in General Biology. During her undergraduate studies, she volunteered with several non-profit organizations, including the Crisis Text Line and the American Red Cross, and gained research experience as a lab assistant at the La Jolla Institute of Immunology under the Benedict Lab. Outside of academics, Meghan is passionate about bouldering, reading, Pilates, enjoying tea lattes, running, and watching baseball—activities that have led her to win two climbing competitions and complete two half marathons.

Rea Pittie

Undergrad: Boston University, Biology (Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics), Minor: Psychology

Rea Pittie was born and raised in Pune, India. She came to Boston University for her undergraduate studies. She graduated in 2023 with a major in Biology with a specialization in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, and a minor in Psychology. She was an International Peer Mentor, a Dean's Host, a Physics Learning Assistant, and an executive board member of the Art Club and the National Bone Marrow Donor Program BU Chapter. After graduating, she spent two years working as a research technician at the Massachusetts General Hospital, exploring biomarkers to inform radiation therapy for prostate, bladder and pancreatic cancers. She volunteered with adaptive sports and youth mentorship. In her leisure time, she loves traveling, concerts, crafts, and food!

Lily Price Skelly

Undergrad: Pitzer College, Biology (Religious Studies)

Lily Price Skelly was awarded highest honors from Pitzer College in 2024, earning a BA in Biology and an emphasis in Religious Studies. She developed an early interest in genetic counseling by publishing a paper on the ethics of preimplantation genetic diagnosis and subsequently served as Editor-in-Chief of an undergraduate bioethics journal. Lily volunteered as a Health Navigator at Friends in Deed, a shelter in Southern California, supporting unhoused individuals with diabetes through culturally appropriate nutrition education and language assistance. She also spent several years working in regenerative agriculture, a cornerstone of food justice and community health. Originally from Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Lily finds joy in nature, swimming in pretty much any body of water, practicing yoga, and making art from ethically sourced animal bones.

Rachael Smith

Undergrad: University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, Marketing

Rachael Smith earned her BBA in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 2015. She began her career at a financial relations firm in New York, supporting publicly traded companies with corporate communications and crisis management. After transitioning to the medical field, she discovered her fondness for patient care as a medical assistant at dermatology clinics in New York and Wisconsin. Rachael has volunteered as an English tutor for adult learners with Literacy Buffalo Niagara and Literacy Services of Wisconsin. Her volunteer work has also included supporting survivors of sexual violence through RAINN’s national hotline and providing in-person advocacy during hospital forensic exams with The Women’s Center. She spends her free time refinishing furniture, trying recipes with her husband, and hiking with their dog.

Alexandra Vargas

Undergrad: Marquette University, Biological Sciences, Minor : Spanish for Health Professions

Alexandra Vargas graduated from Marquette University in 2021 with a BS in Biological Sciences and a Minor in Spanish for Health Professions. During her undergraduate studies she worked with Western DuPage Special Recreation Association, an organization that aims to encourage diverse community integration with individuals with disabilities. After graduating, she volunteered as a sunshine caller with the Association of Individual Development to conduct wellness checks for clients struggling with mental health issues. Her interest in genetic counseling was explored through positions as a genetic counseling assistant with Insight Medical Genetics and Northwestern Medicine, assisting the cancer and reproductive genetics teams of both clinics. Beyond genetic counseling, she enjoys playing tennis, trying new restaurants, and exploring her creativity through crafts and pottery projects.

Paige White

Undergrad: Minnesota State University, Psychology, Minor: Military Science

Paige White graduated from Minnesota State University in 2023 with a BS in Psychology and a Minor in Military Science. She competed in cross country and track and commissioned as a Medical Services Officer in the Army through ROTC. During undergrad, she worked as a Recovery Advocate at an inpatient substance abuse treatment center, where she witnessed the transformative power of support. She later became a research assistant in the Human Auditory Development Lab at Boys Town National Research Hospital, primarily researching auditory function in individuals with Down syndrome. As a former exchange student in Germany, she values cultural inclusion in healthcare and is excited to apply this in her future practice. Paige enjoys playing the piano, hiking, reading, and is currently training for her first marathon.

Caroline Yager

Undergrad: Butler University, Biology, Minors: Chemistry, Psychology, and Spanish

Caroline Yager graduated from Butler University in May of 2025 with a BS in Biology and minors in Chemistry, Psychology, and Spanish. She conducted and published research on the therapeutic potential of plant extracts against RSV and cancer cell proliferation. Caroline also studied the relationship between mental health, disability visibility, and sense of belonging on college campuses. She served as a Camp Director for United Cerebral Palsy, supporting teens with disabilities. Caroline was involved in advocacy and inclusion through her leadership roles with Butler Ambassadors for Special Olympics (BASO) and Best Buddies. Through these roles, she coordinated campus-wide initiatives to promote accessibility and helped raise over $70,000 for Indiana Special Olympics. She enjoys running, spending time with friends, and traveling.