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| Courtney Hannum, class of 2022 |
Choosing a genetic counseling graduate program is challenging. While the major components remain the same between programs, each offers unique opportunities. A defining factor in my decision-making process was the diverse clinical rotations offered to Cincinnati Genetic Counseling Graduate Program (GCGP) trainees. Not only do the rotations span across specialties and institutions, but students are also encouraged to create their own 5-week elective rotation experience.
Prior to my time at the Cincinnati GCGP, I found a passion for neurogenetics. For this reason, I knew I was interested in exploring the genetic counseling profession as it relates to neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions. I felt that the best way to experience a wide variety of neuro-related indications was through creating my own elective neurogenetic rotation. Fortunately, I was met with great support and excitement from my program faculty, genetic counselors, and neurologists.
The process for designing my rotation began with outlining my goals and relating the plans to the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) competencies. I decided that my primary goals were as follows:
- To gain exposure to a wide variety of clinical presentations relating to the field of neurogenetics. Specifically, to encounter patients with epilepsy, neurometabolic conditions, and neurodevelopmental disabilities.
- To increase my understanding of and to practice counseling on common psychosocial issues faced by families who have children with neurogenetic conditions.
- To spend time shadowing neurologists/physicians to increase my knowledge of both the diagnostic process and necessary follow-up.
To complete this rotation, I was paired with a pediatric genetic counselor to be my supervisor. I was responsible for creating my schedule each week and reaching out to the providers I planned to work with. Each week I spent 2 full days on clinical responsibilities. Throughout my experience, I counseled children with various neurodevelopmental indications in a GC only clinic and shadowed providers in epilepsy, neurosurgery, neurometabolic and movement disorder clinics.
My most memorable experience was observing within the neurosurgery clinic. Here, I was able to witness how various surgical options, along with the benefits and limitations, are presented to families. I was not previously aware of some of the options, such as a functional hemispherotomy. This is a surgery where one hemisphere of the brain is completely disconnected in order to isolate abnormal brain activity and prevent seizures. Unfortunately, (and unsurprisingly) such surgeries come with great risks that caregivers must weigh on behalf of the child. The opportunity to observe these conversations provided me with valuable insight into the psychosocial needs of children with epilepsy and their families.
In addition to being a genetic counseling trainee, I am also a Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities (LEND) trainee. One overarching goal of LEND is to appreciate and promote interdisciplinary healthcare. I felt that this elective rotation really allowed me to dive into interdisciplinary care. I was able to practice communicating with a variety of different providers, learn about the roles of those providers, and advocate for the genetic counseling profession. The feedback received from other providers was very positive. So much so, that this will hopefully become a standing rotation option for future GC students.
I am grateful for the unique learning opportunities afforded to me by the Cincinnati GCGP. I look forward to starting my position as a clinical genetic counselor at the Christ Hospital here in Cincinnati, as I hope to supervise future trainees.
- Courtney L. Hannum, Class of 2022
