Students pursuing a career in genetic counseling build unique experiences as they
prepare for graduate education. Each of our students has something special to offer
from their undergraduate, post graduate and extracurricular experiences as they merge
to become a team of learners.
What Does it Mean to be a Genetic Counseling Student?
At the University of South Carolina it means you become part of the team from day one: an engaged learner in our genetics
center. You'll have an experienced faculty who are open door mentors in your preparation
for this career. You'll have access in the classroom and in the clinic to the genetic
counselor faculty and geneticists in our rotation network of twelve genetic centers.
The world of genetic counseling will unfold for you in two very busy years.
Our goal is to provide a strong foundation in genetic concepts and interpersonal communication
to prepare our students for the dozens of roles open to genetic counselors today.
Upon graduation, our students will demonstrate advanced knowledge in genetics, genomics
and psychosocial skills and will be equipped to collaborate with an interprofessional
team to provide patient centered care in a variety of settings.
Laura Ciccarelli is from Charleston, South Carolina and graduated from Clemson University
in 2023 with a B.S. in Genetics and a minor in Spanish. At Clemson she worked in a
research lab focused on identifying genes involved in the process of senescence in
maize plants. She also developed genetics lesson plans for middle school students
in South Carolina through a Clemson creative inquiry project. She was an active member
of the National Community Service organization Alpha Phi Omega where she served as
quartermaster. Beyond Clemson, Laura participated in the Medical University of South
Carolina Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP). She worked on validation studies
for a novel pancreatic cancer drug and presented her research at the SURP symposium.
Following graduation, she trained and tested to become a registered behavioral therapist.
She worked with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and learned about the lived
experiences of people with neurodevelopmental disabilities. She is thrilled to be
a part of the University of South Carolina Genetic Counseling Program and LEND fellowship.
She is happy to answer any questions about the program, fellowship, or application
process!
Laura.Ciccarelli@uscmed.sc.edu
Ashton Farmer
Ashton Farmer is from Manchester, Kentucky. She graduated with her B.S. in Biology
and Public Health from University of the Cumberlands in 2024. Ashton began her journey
to genetic counseling in high school when she shadowed a genetic counselor for the
first time. She interned for Camp UNITE in 2020, a free camp for middle schoolers
that is focused on substance abuse education. From 2021 through 2024, she volunteered
during the summer with Children’s Center of the Cumberlands, a child advocacy center
that provides resources for children who have experienced abuse. She also served on
her university’s Campus Activities Board for 4 years, helping to plan and work during
campus events. Ashton is most passionate about improving health literacy and advocacy
in rural Appalachia where she was raised, and she hopes to work there as a genetic
counselor one day. She would be happy to answer any questions from prospective students
at ashton.farmer@uscmed.sc.edu!
Katie Fix
Katie graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2022 with a B.S. in Public Health
and a minor in medical humanities. At UARK she was involved in several organizations,
including Hogz End Alz, the Honors College ambassador program, and Ronald McDonald
House Charities. She also volunteered as a peer mentor for EMPOWER, a program that
helps students with intellectual disabilities improve academic, independent living,
and social skills. During her senior year, she was an intern for the Campus Sexual
and Relationship Violence Center where she led on campus awareness and advocacy events.
After graduation, Katie moved to Dallas, Texas and worked at a domestic violence agency
doing educational sessions with children living in the emergency shelter and with
teenage girls on probation. During this time, she also volunteered with the Crisis
Text Line. To gain exposure to the field, she conducted several informational interviews
and shadowed genetic counselors throughout multiple Dallas hospital systems. Katie
is very excited to be a part of the USC Genetic Counseling Program and the LEND fellowship
and is happy to answer any questions! katie.fix@uscmed.sc.edu
Cammi Galley
Cammi Galley is from Baltimore, MD and earned her B.A. in Psychology from Loyola University
Maryland in 2022. Much of her initial knowledge of genetic counseling came from interviewing
several Genetic Counselors, then landing a GC summer internship with Johns Hopkins.
Fueled by her pursuit of genetic counseling, she completed research on social perceptions
of Huntington’s Disease in undergrad. She then worked as a Genetic Counselor Assistant
at the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine for two years where she learned much
about the important intersectionality of fertility and genetics. She also volunteered
with Therapeutic Recreation in Colorado, a program that facilitates adaptive activities
for individuals with a variety of disabilities. UofSC drew Cammi’s attention because
of the program’s emphasis on community engagement, and throughout the entire application
and interview process, she knew that UofSC was where she wanted to match. Cammi is
thrilled to be a part of the USCGCP Class of 2026 and is happy to answer any questions
about the program or application process!
Cammi.Galley@uscmed.sc.edu
Anna Girten
Anna Girten is from Geneseo, Illinois. She attended the University of Northern Iowa
and graduated with a B.A. in biology and a minor in psychology in May of 2024. At
UNI she was involved in TriBeta Biology Honor Society, the College of Humanities,
Arts, and Sciences Dean’s Advisory Board, the Learning Center, and the University
Honors Program. She completed her senior honors thesis on the perceptions surrounding
pharmacogenomics. One of her favorite undergraduate experiences was her involvement
in the Spectrum Project, a music, movement, drama, and art program for children with
differing abilities. Outside of school she enjoyed volunteering at House of Hope,
a transitional housing program for single mothers. She applied to USC because of their
emphasis on community engagement, supportive faculty and staff, and close-knit cohort.
She is excited to be a part of the class of 2026 and is happy to answer any questions!
anna.girten@uscmed.sc.edu
Teeya Mercer
Teeya Mercer was born in Reynoldsburg, Ohio but frequently moved around due to her
parents being active duty in the Army. She spent the last 11 years in Jacksonville,
Florida and graduated from the University of North Florida in December 2022 with a
B.S in Behavioral Neuroscience. During her time at UNF, she was an active member in
the UNF Best Buddies Club where they worked towards creating friendships and connections
with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as raising
awareness for the cause of the organization. She also worked as a teacher’s assistant,
chemistry tutor, and participated in the UNF International Peer Mentorship program.
Before her final semester, she was an intern for an organization called Yoga4Change
where she was able to learn about the method used to create trauma informed yoga curriculum
to aid specific populations such as veterans, incarcerated individuals, youth, and
those living with mental health conditions. Outside of school, she was involved in
various volunteer activities that focused on providing support to individuals with
autism. Her advocacy to help those with disabilities began when her younger brother
was diagnosed with autism when she was only 4 years old. She was a Special Olympics
Unified Partner for bowling and participated in a peer mentorship program with Center
for Independent Living Jacksonville. Teeya also volunteered with the Autism Society
of Florida where she frequently worked at resource fairs that were for families and
individuals living with autism. For this organization, she also was responsible for
managing a monthly social group for individuals with autism that helped facilitate
peer connections by gaming together. After she graduated, she worked at University
of Florida Health hospital in their Neuroscience department as a customer service
representative. Apart from shadowing and conducting informational interviews with
genetic counselors, she also is a GOLDEN Genetics Mentee which is an organization
that is dedicated to raising awareness for the profession of genetic counseling to
African American students. She is delighted to be a student of the USCGCP class of
2026! Feel free to reach out to her with any questions!
Teeya.Mercer@uscmed.sc.edu
Sydney Price
Sydney Price is from Manasquan, New Jersey. She graduated from Randolph-Macon College
in 2023 with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. During her time as an undergraduate,
Sydney was president of the equestrian team, a genetics and biology tutor, and a
volunteer for the Crisis Textline. While at R-MC Sydney got involved in research focused
on developing a non-lethal genetic assay to determine sex in Brook Trout. This research
led Sydney to her first publication as well as multiple conference presentations.
After graduating, she worked as an Environmental Scientist, getting to risk assess
the effect of pollutants on human health. She also spent some time as a Medical Assistant
for a surgeon, focusing on the patient provider interaction. Following college, she
also enjoyed volunteering at an equine therapy program in her local community. Sydney
is very excited to be a part of the class of 2026 and is happy to answer any questions.
Sydney.Price@uscmed.sc.edu
Mary Claire Sherman
Mary Claire Sherman is from Moncks Corner, South Carolina. She attended Clemson University
and graduated in May 2024 with a B.S. in Genetics and minors in Biological Sciences
and Social Sciences. While at Clemson, Mary Claire acted as a Student Ambassador within
the College of Science, served as Events Coordinator for Clemson FCA, and was a part
of the College of Science Student Advisory Board. She participated in undergraduate
research in a biochemistry and genetics lab where she investigated eDNA in places
at Clemson and researched its implications for public health. An additional experience
she had at Clemson came from her summer study abroad learning Bioethics in Pamplona,
Spain! As a part of her advocacy work, Mary Claire volunteered with the Julie Valentine
Center acting as a Victim Advocate for survivors of sexual assault and child abuse.
In her summers, she also volunteered with My Sister’s House, a domestic violence advocacy
group, to aid the Director of Finance. Mary Claire gained valuable experience in the
field from shadowing multiple Genetic Counselors at the Medical University of South
Carolina and taking the summer course, Careers for the Future, at USC! She is very
excited to be a part of the class of 2026 and welcomes any questions about applying
to GC school and participating in the PFF fellowship!
mcs26@uscmed.sc.edu
Rylan Sweitzer
Rylan Sweitzer attended The University of North Carolina Wilmington where she majored
in Biology and minored in psychology and neuroscience. She completed her honors thesis
on “The Effects of Expressive Writing Therapy in the Stress Response.” After graduation
she worked as a medical assistant for Anne Arundel Gastroenterology where she worked
with doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners to help patients get the
help they needed. These experiences showed her that she wanted to help and support
patients, not just treat them. So she looked for a new job that would apply to genetic
counseling more directly. She was lucky enough to work as the Helpline Coordinator
for Cancer Support Community where free resources are provided to anyone affected
by cancer. She chose USC because of their genuine love for their program and students
as well as the focus on community engagement.
Class of 2027
Maggie Andrews
Maggie Andrews is originally from Maiden, North Carolina. She graduated from Clemson
University in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and a minor in Psychology.
Throughout her undergraduate career, Maggie was actively involved both on and off
campus. At Clemson’s Academic Success Center, she tutored calculus and served as a
Tutor Mentor, where she trained and supported over 80 fellow tutors. She was also
a member of the IPTAY Student Advisory Board, advocating for the student experience
within Clemson’s Athletic Donor organization. Beyond campus, Maggie volunteered with
Safe Harbor, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic abuse, raising
awareness, and promoting equitable responses to domestic violence. She also gained
valuable hands-on experience as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at Levine Children’s
Hospital’s Pediatric Genetics Clinic. Maggie is thrilled to join the University of
South Carolina’s Genetic Counseling Program. She was especially drawn to the Preparing
Future Faculty (PFF) track and is eager to further explore her interests in higher
education and genetic counseling education. Maggie welcomes any and all questions
regarding the application process or USC’s program! Maggie.Andrews@uscmed.sc.edu
Lauren Campbell
Lauren Campbell is from Asheville, North Carolina, and graduated from the University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2024 with a major in Biology and a minor in Health
and Society. During her time at UNC, Lauren volunteered with the Orange County Special
Olympics as an assistant coach for the soccer and softball teams, and with the Boys
and Girls Club as a tutor for elementary and middle school students. These experiences
sparked her passion for community service. Lauren also worked as an in-home caretaker
with CareYaya, providing compassionate care to patients and their families. After
graduation, she gained additional counseling experience as a genetic counseling assistant
at Geisinger in Danville, PA. In this role, she supported five genetic counselors
in the medical genetics clinic and five in the prenatal and reproductive endocrinology
and infertility clinics. During her time at Geisinger, Lauren participated in Journal
Club, the Mentorship Program, and the Genetic Counseling Educational Series. She also
shadowed genetic counselors across various specialties to further deepen her understanding
of the field. Lauren was drawn to USC’s genetic counseling program because of its
emphasis on community engagement, supportive faculty and staff, and tight-knit cohort.
She is excited to be part of the Class of 2027 and looks forward to connecting with
future applicants!
Christina Koenig
Christina Koenig is from a small town north of Boston, Massachusetts. She graduated
summa cum laude with leadership distinction from the University of South Carolina
in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences & Psychology and a minor
in Spanish. As an undergraduate student, Christina was a member of the Tri Beta Biological
Honor Society and the Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology. She served
as a peer leader and orientation leader, volunteered as a crisis counselor, and tutored
organic chemistry, Spanish, and English as a Second Language.During her time at USC,
she got involved as an undergraduate research assistant in the SC Family Experiences
Lab with Dr. Jessica Klusek. Following her graduation, Christina continued with the
lab as a full-time research specialist, which allowed her to work with carriers of
the FMR1 premutation and mothers of children with Fragile X Syndrome. This experience
deepened her knowledge and passion for supporting families affected by genetic conditions,
and she looks forward to expanding this further as a member of the Class of 2027.
She is happy to answer any questions you may have! Christina.Koenig@uscmed.sc.edu
Mia Lane
Mia is from Lexington, South Carolina and graduated from the University of South Carolina
in December 2024 with a B.S in Biological Sciences and minor in Psychology. At USC,
Mia was an active member of the community service organization, Epsilon Sigma Alpha,
and co-instructed a leadership course for Capstone Scholars. During the summers, she
worked as a therapeutic recreation counselor at a summer camp where she further developed
her passion for working with adults and children with intellectual and developmental
disabilities. After graduation, Mia served as a one-on-one support in an elementary
school, working with a child with a genetic condition to promote communication and
inclusion. Mia solidified her interest for genetic counseling through shadowing, USC’s
Career for the Future Course, and her role as a genetic counseling assistant with
USCGCP. She knew USCGCP was a great fit after witnessing the support of the faculty
as the GCA and because of their emphasis on community engagement. Mia is so excited
to be apart of USCGCP class of 2027 and is happy to answer any questions about the
program or CDR graduate assistantship track!
Evelyn Leary
Evelyn Leary is from Vernon Hills, Illinois. She graduated from the University of
South Carolina in 2025 with a B.S. in both biological sciences and psychology. While
at USC, she completed her Honors College thesis on genetic counseling as an emerging
global profession and worked as a genetic counselor assistant. She also worked as
a research assistant at the Neurodevelopmental Disorders Lab, where she coded videos
of children with Fragile X syndrome, children with autism spectrum disorder, and neurotypical
children. She was an active member of her service sorority, Epsilon Sigma Alpha, and
served as an officer for multiple years. Outside of school, she worked at a day camp
for children and teens with intellectual disabilities for six summers and carried
out leadership roles within the camp for four of those summers. She also volunteered
for the Crisis Text Line and completed USC’s Genetic Counseling: Career for the Future
summer course. Evelyn is so grateful to be a part of the USCGCP and LEND fellowship
and is happy to answer any questions!evelyn.leary@uscmed.sc.edu
Sophie Macner
Sophie Macner is from Plattsburgh, NY and graduated from Russell Sage College in 2023
with her B.S. in biology and a minor in psychology. As an undergraduate, Sophie was
a TA for Anatomy & Physiology Lab I & II, a physics tutor, and a volunteer for a local
pregnancy care center. Sophie also worked in her university’s lab assisting with a
research project that aimed at studying polymorphisms in the dopamine genes of spotted
hyenas and how certain variations could influence hyena personality traits. After
graduation, she moved to Vermont and began working as a clinical research coordinator
in the pulmonary and critical care division of the local hospital system. During this
time, she was a board member for the Genetic Counseling Prospective Student Network
and volunteered for the Crisis Textline and a local equine therapy program for children
with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Sophie is thrilled to be a part of the USC Genetic
Counseling Program Class of 2027 and is happy to answer any questions about the program
or the application process! sophie.macner@uscmed.sc.edu
Kathryn Maholick
Kathryn Maholick is from Nazareth, Pennsylvania. She graduated from the University
of South Carolina in May 2025 with a major in Biological Sciences and minor in Business
Administration. While at USC, Kathryn was a member of the Society of Pre-Health Professionals
in Genetics, where she served as the President and Social Media Chair. She was a Peer
Leader for the Fundamentals of Genetics Lab.During the summer of 2024, Kathryn worked
as a Genetic Counseling Assistant (GCA) with USC, and completed their online course,
Genetic Counseling: Career for the Future, where she gained valuable insight into
the career. In addition to her GCA position, Kathryn shadowed prenatal and cancer
genetic counselors in her hometown over summer and winter breaks which solidified
her love for genetic counseling. Outside of class, she volunteered with the Crisis
Text Line and Be My Eyes, an online organization that aids the visually impaired.
Kathryn is delighted to be part of the USCGCP class of 2027 and welcomes any questions.
Kathryn.Maholick@uscmed.sc.edu
Jade Mattress
Jade Mattress is from Anderson, SC, She graduated from Coastal Carolina University
in May 2024, where she completed a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Spanish for Health
Professions. During her time at Coastal Carolina she was a dancer for Teal Temptations,
a mentor for first-year students, and a member of TriBeta Biological Honors Society.
She also was a research assistant for SC Inbre where she looked for natural ways to
control bacterial blooms in bodies of water in tourists areas using bacteriophages.
After graduation, she was a summer intern at Greenwood Genetic Center where she was
able to shadow different genetic counselors and specialties. This experience is one
that was beyond valuable and will stick with her forever. Before starting the program
at USC, she worked as a special education teaching assistant for children with moderate
to severe needs at an elementary school in her hometown. Jade has always had a passion
for helping and volunteering for her community, and she has always wanted to give
a voice to those who are underrepresented. The reason she chose USCGCP is because
of their community engagement and drive to bring awareness of this profession to all
communities and backgrounds. She is elated to be a part of the class 2027, and she
welcomes any questions! jade.mattress@uscmed.sc.edu
Abby Patten
Abby is from Winston-Salem, NC, and graduated from Furman University in 2022 with
a B.A. in Psychology. During her undergraduate studies, she interned with SWITCH,
a nonprofit dedicated to combatting human trafficking in Upstate South Carolina, as
well as PRISMA Health, where she worked alongside cancer genetic counselors and discovered
her passion for the field. Abby also completed a thesis that explored the relationship
between alcohol consumption and physical activity among college students, which she
presented at the APA conference in Chicago. After graduation, Abby worked as a Registered
Behavior Technician and interned with the NBIA Disorders Association, deepening her
commitment to supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. She is thrilled
to join the USC Genetic Counseling Class of 2027 and serve as one of the LEND trainees.
She’s always happy to connect and answer any questions about the program!awpatten@uscmed.sc.edu
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