Meet Our Students
2027

Pooja Banglorewala
Undergrad: University of Western Ontario, GeneticsPooja 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 BiologySavannah 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, BiochemistrySamantha 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 PsychologyCorinne 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: PsychologyNicole 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 AnthropologyGraduate: 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, BiologyAdrian 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, ZoologyGraduate: 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, BiochemistryGraduate: 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 Counseling, 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 PsychologyAngela 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 HealthSophie 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 MentoringAllison 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: SpanishMadeline 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 BiologyMeghan 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: PsychologyRea 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, MarketingRachael 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 ProfessionsAlexandra 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 SciencePaige 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 SpanishCaroline 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.
2028

Carly Banks
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoCarly Banks graduated from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo in 2017, with a B.S. in biological sciences. After moving to Colorado, she began working in a molecular pathology laboratory before moving to a technologist position at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment in March of 2020, working her full-time position in the Newborn Screening unit while assisting with COVID testing during the early days of the pandemic. Through newborn screening, she engaged with genetic counselors while calling out abnormal results for babies, and she served as a peer support counselor to other public health employees after becoming the supervisor to seven technologists. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing, snowboarding, golfing, and camping with her partner and their two dogs.

Abbey Burris
Undergrad: Purdue UniversityAbbey Burris graduated from Purdue University in 2026 with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Psychology. As an undergraduate, she served as the Vice President of Risk Management and Mental Health for her sorority, gaining experience in crisis counseling and advocacy. She was also a board member for the Genetic Counseling Prospective Student Network, helping expand awareness and access to resources for prospective students. Abbey spent two years performing CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing on yeast species and working as a teaching assistant. Having a family member with a disability, she grew up observing the importance of empathetic patient care and advocacy. These experiences pushed her to pursue a career in genetic counseling. Abbey enjoys concerts, watching baseball (Go Cubs Go!), and playing golf.

Alexa Davey
Undergrad: North Dakota State UniversityAlexa Davey was born and raised in Minnesota. She graduated from North Dakota State University in 2025 with a B.S. in Biological Sciences and minors in Chemistry and Psychology. While at NDSU, she worked as a Patient Care Technician in Sanford’s Rehabilitation Unit, shadowed genetic counselors at Mayo Clinic, and gained experience as a research assistant in a USDA lab. She also volunteers as a youth mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters and serves survivors of violence as an advocate at the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center. All these experiences shaped her passions for patient-centered care, advocacy, and bridging gaps in healthcare. Outside of genetic counseling, she enjoys exercising, spending time with friends and family, baking, traveling, and trying new coffee shops!

Amira Ellison
Undergrad: Pennsylvania State UniversityAmira Ellison graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 2022 with a degree in Biology. As an undergraduate, she participated in multiple research experiences but primarily focused on studying chromosomal inversions in Drosophila populations. She continued her research pursuits as a post-baccalaureate researcher at Baylor College of Medicine, where she worked on optimizing polygenic risk scores. Amira has also worked as a clinical research coordinator, helping facilitate studies focused on improving food allergy diagnostic testing. In addition to her research experiences, she has served as a teaching assistant abroad in Madrid, where she helped children learn English. She also volunteered for a crisis hotline and volunteered as a rape advocate. In her free time, she enjoys visiting art museums, trying new restaurants, and spending time with friends.

Lydia Fink
Undergrad: University of ArkansasLydia Fink graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Spanish. During her undergraduate studies, she concentrated on laboratory work in pathological diseases while also engaging in advocacy work through several organizations, most notably Days for Girls. After graduation, Lydia began working at a social and emotional learning facility and a cardiovascular clinic, where she gained extensive experience in patient-centered education. Through her work at the cardiology clinic, she was introduced to cardiovascular genetics and its significance in preventative healthcare. Lydia considers herself a caffeine-fueled, crazy cat lady who enjoys taking her two cats on stroller rides and painting in her free time. She also loves all live music, any new food, and time spent with her friends.

Emma Kellogg
Undergrad: University of ArkansasEmma Kellogg graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2023 with a B.A. in Biology and a minor in Anthropology. During her undergraduate studies, she conducted research in ecology and biological anthropology labs, worked as a homeschool tutor, and volunteered as a peer mentor for students with cognitive disabilities through the EMPOWER program. Since graduation, Emma has worked in New York’s craft beer industry while running her vintage store on the weekends. She also volunteers as an advocate with the Domestic and Other Violence Emergencies (DOVE) Program at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, where she discovered her passion for advocacy and patient-centered support. In her free time, Emma enjoys visiting craft breweries, vintage shopping, reading, and watching 1960s films with her cat, Monty.

Jillian Kiernan
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-MadisonJillian Kiernan graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2025 with a B.S. in Genetics and Genomics and a certificate in Business. During her time at UW-Madison, she volunteered as a peer advisor for the genetics department, served as a crisis counselor for Crisis Text Line, and worked as a student research assistant studying vertebrate embryogenesis. She also worked with neurodivergent children at a summer camp and led adapted recreation programs through Madison School and Community Recreation. Since graduating, Jillian has been working as a Genetic Counseling Assistant for the High-Risk Cancer Genetics Program at NYU Langone Health, where she has further developed her passion for patient-centered care. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outside, exploring coffee shops, and running.

Emma Martin
Undergrad: Purdue UniversityEmma Martin graduated from Purdue University in 2026 with a B.S. in Genetics and minors in Chemistry and Psychology. During her undergraduate studies, she conducted research in the Aguilar Lab, focusing on the pathology of Lowe syndrome. Additionally, Emma supported over 56 students living in University Residences as a Resident Assistant, helping enrich her crisis-intervention and interpersonal skills. Driven by a passion for mentorship and advocacy, Emma served as a committee chair for the Women in Science Program (WISP), supporting women in STEM fields. Through her research experience and leadership roles, Emma was inspired to pursue genetic counseling. In this field, she hopes to advance health equity for underrepresented communities in Chicago. In her free time, Emma enjoys attending music festivals, reading, and scrapbooking.

Erin McCraw
Undergrad: University of North Carolina at Chapel HillErin McCraw graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Medical Anthropology. When she was not cheering on the Tar Heels basketball team, Erin spent much of her time forming relationships with members of her Chapel Hill community through her work as a direct support professional and membership in Best Buddies. Erin developed lasting friendships with individuals of all backgrounds and abilities, which she has continued to grow even after moving to Charleston, SC, to work as a genetic program assistant. She can typically be found on the beach, enjoying live music, or trying new restaurants with friends, and is excited for the new experiences that Northwestern will bring!

Hallie Moeller
Undergrad: Purdue UniversityHallie Moeller graduated from Purdue University in 2022 with a B.S. in Genetics and Psychology. During her undergraduate years, she was an active member of the Pre-Genetic Counseling Club and volunteered as a crisis intervention specialist with Mental Health America, where she supported individuals experiencing mental health crises. After graduation, Hallie moved to Chicago and joined Tempus, where she currently works as a science analyst evaluating RNA fusions detected from genetic testing for clinical reportability. Outside of work, she volunteers with PAWS Chicago, walking dogs and assisting potential adopters. In her free time, Hallie enjoys taking walks by the lake, spending time with family and friends, reading, and exploring new coffee shops and restaurants throughout the city.

Rachel Podhajsky
Undergrad: Colorado State UniversityRachel Podhajsky graduated from Colorado State University in 2025 with a BS in Zoology and a minor in French. During her undergraduate studies, she worked as a tutor for a variety of chemistry and biology courses. Outside of her studies, she served on the executive board of her sorority and volunteered as a RamWelcome orientation leader. She gained insight into working with individuals in emotional stress as a Crisis Text Line volunteer. Since graduating, she has worked as a pharmacy technician for the University of Iowa where she has developed patient communication skills. Her own family’s experience drove her interest in genetic counseling. In her free time, Rachel enjoys reading, trying out new coffee shops, and crocheting.

Lena Przybocki
Undergrad: University of Missouri-ColumbiaLena Przybocki graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2020 with a B.S. in Biological Sciences, with an emphasis in Medical Science and Human Biology. Her research project testing efficiencies in gene alteration methods helped her t0 graduate with Departmental Honors. After graduating, she volunteered as a Crisis Counselor with the Crisis Text Line. In 2024, she relocated to Springfield, IL, where she worked as a medical office associate with the SIU School of Medicine-General Internal Medicine department and attended evening classes to become a Certified Medical Assistant. She enjoyed the close patient interaction and the opportunity to advocate for patients. In her free time she enjoys crafting, walking her dogs, and listening to audiobooks.

Adriana Roman
Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignAdriana Roman graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2025 with a B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology. As an undergraduate student, she gained experience in patient advocacy and crisis intervention through roles with Crisis Text Line, Carle Foundation Hospital, and as a Resident Advisor. Additionally, Adriana conducted undergraduate research which focused on bioactive compounds in legumes and their role in preventing Type 2 diabetes. Following graduation, she worked as a phlebotomist at a plasma donation center, where she further developed skills in patient communication and emotional support. These experiences have given her exposure to how often individuals are left without adequate support or clear information and have strengthened her commitment to improving accessibility in genetic services. During her free time, Adriana enjoys going on runs, hikes, and spending time with loved ones.

Jonathon Ross
Undergrad: University of MinnesotaJonathon Ross graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2021 with a B.S. in genetics, cell biology, and development. While an undergraduate student, he became an EMT and served as a volunteer EMT for the university during the Covid pandemic. He was also a teaching assistant, teaching students about physiology and medical devices. After graduating, Jonathon became a full time EMT with MHealth Fairview in a pre-procedure anesthesia clinic, preparing patients for surgery while volunteering as a crisis counselor with Crisis Text Line. These experiences combined with a passion for genetics motivated Jonathon to become a genetic counselor. Outside of work, Jonathon enjoys sports, playing chess, video games, and collecting stained glass.

Yasmin Shihab
Graduate: University of York
Yasmin Shihab was raised in California and moved to the UK to attend the University of York. She graduated in 2026 with an honors Integrated Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, focusing on genetics and immunology. During her degree, she worked in the Coverley Lab to investigate sex-based differences in the expression of CIZ1, an epigenetic protein, as a factor in sex-specific diseases. Alongside her interest in genetics, Yasmin developed a passion for patient advocacy during her internship with Cancer Research UK, where she helped improve patient trust in medical research. She also volunteered at Kyra, a women’s shelter in York, supporting clients and facilitating drop-in sessions. In her free time, Yasmin enjoys reading, cooking, listening to live music, and exploring new places.

Sabrina Siegel
Undergrad: Santa Clara UniversitySabrina Siegel graduated from Santa Clara University in 2024 with a B.S. in Biological Sciences. As an undergraduate, she conducted cellular biology research and worked as a medical scribe and clinical trial assistant. She also volunteered as a teaching assistant, helping develop an accessible STEM program for students with learning disabilities, led workshops on gardening, nutrition, and sustainable food systems at a community garden, and captained the club lacrosse team. Since graduating, she has been working as a Patient Navigator at Spring Fertility in San Francisco, coordinating personalized treatment plans involving PGT testing and providing emotional support throughout complex fertility journeys. In her free time, she enjoys running, snowboarding, camping, painting, reading, traveling, and baking.

Kyndra Sparks
Undergrad: Lees-McRae CollegeKyndra Sparks was born and raised in Raleigh, NC. She graduated from Lees-McRae College with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2021. During her senior year, she completed an internship at Duke University Hospital in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she developed strong clinical skills caring for premature infants and neonates with a variety of congenital syndromes and disorders. After graduating, she earned a full-time position as a registered nurse in Duke’s NICU. Kyndra grew a passion for aiding families in crisis by helping them cope with extended hospital stays as well as preparing them for the intricacies of caring for medically complex infants. In August 2023, Kyndra moved to the Chicagoland area to work at Lurie Children’s Hospital in the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) where she gained experience with patients ranging from neonates to adults with congenital heart disease. While at Lurie Children’s, she engaged in quality improvement projects by serving on the Hospital Acquired Conditions Committee and the Quality and Safety Council. She also fostered her interest in family-centered care by contributing to the developmental councils at both Duke and Lurie Children’s Hospitals. Kyndra enjoys spending her spare time running outside, reading, baking and knitting at an amateur level.

Andres Vassaux
Undergrad: University of Colorado BoulderFirst, Last graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder with a B.A. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, along with a minor in Sociology and a certificate in Care, Health, and Resilience. He spent most of his undergraduate years conducting and publishing research on the molecular impacts of nicotine exposure and its implications for sleep, mitochondrial function, and prenatal development. After spending much of his youth in Guatemala with his family, Andy volunteered as a guest instructor for Spanish-speaking middle school science classes. The culmination of these experiences ignited a passion for teaching genetics and led him to the Genetic Counseling Program at Northwestern. Outside of the sciences, Andy enjoys spending time outdoors, going to the gym, playing video games, listening to and making music.

Anita Washburn
Undergrad: University of California Los AngelesAnita Washburn was born and raised in San Diego and is now based in Chicago. A 2024 UCLA graduate in Physiological Sciences, she worked as a medical scribe in a gynecologic oncology clinic, where the absence of a genetic counselor — and how profoundly patients and families needed that guidance — became her motivation to enter the field. She has since shadowed counselors in cancer, prenatal, and laboratory settings, and contributed to a Phase II ovarian cancer clinical trial. Fluent in Spanish and English, she volunteers as a medical translator with Chicago's Mobile Migrant Health Team and works in medical fitness with individuals with movement disorders and paralysis. Outside of work, she performs in a jazz and blues band and enjoys tennis, swimming, and rock climbing.

Sydnee Yap
Undergrad: University of PittsburghSydnee Yap was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2022 with a B.S. in Psychology, a minor in Economics, and a certificate in Global Health. After graduation, she volunteered with Crisis Text Line and worked as a Patient Navigator at the UCHealth Cancer and Hematology Clinic in Denver, coordinating care for oncology patients across multiple disciplines. Additionally, she joined the Oncology Pharmacogenomics Pilot at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, where she helped integrate pharmacogenomic testing for patients with GI and breast cancer to improve patient outcomes across eleven clinics in Colorado. In her free time, Sydnee enjoys trying new restaurants, playing tennis, and finding the best matcha in town.