Research opportunities in the MSGC program: A student's journey in precision health

The Master of Science in Genetic Counseling (MSGC) program at MUSC offers students unique research opportunities, including involvement in community health research projects like In Our DNA SC. With support from MUSC’s Precision Health Research Program, students like Sarah English, MSGC Class of 2025, can pursue their passions in precision health and gain valuable skills and experiences that prepare them for their future careers as genetic counselors.

Tell us about a research project you've been involved in during your time in the MSGC program.

During my time in the MSGC program, I have been involved with genomic screening research through the In Our DNA SC community health research project at MUSC. Through my experiences with In Our DNA SC, I opted to focus on data from the population genomic screening program for my MSGC thesis research project. My thesis research is investigating the return of results process for patients who receive a cancer-related result, as well as potential downstream clinical outcomes. Dr. Caitlin Allen is my thesis advisor and welcomed me into the Precision Health Research Program, along with other like-minded students who are passionate about precision health. The Precision Health Research Program applies implementation science methods to develop, deliver, and evaluate precision health and genomic interventions alongside community partners.

What have you enjoyed most about this research experience? How has it shaped your perspective on genetic counseling?

I have thoroughly enjoyed getting an exposure to the network of research and researchers who are passionate about precision health. In a field like genetics that is relatively small, it is extremely motivating to meet like-minded people within the community who share the same passions, interests, and goals as you. Meeting these people along the way has reaffirmed my love for the genetic counseling community, which I am so excited to be a part of!

What do you think sets the research opportunities in this program apart from others? How has the program supported your growth as a researcher?

MUSC is the only comprehensive academic health sciences system in the state of South Carolina. Along with educating healthcare professionals, prioritizing research in the health sciences is at the core of MUSC’s institutional mission. The MSGC program embraces MUSC’s mission of advancing education and promoting research by providing students with essential support and unique resources to accomplish meaningful, ethical, and impactful research. Throughout my time in the MSGC program, I have always felt inspired and encouraged by faculty and staff to pursue my interests and passions through research. Having the support and resources from a research-motivated institution and academic program has allowed me to think outside of the box and feel confident in my abilities as a student researcher.

What advice would you give to incoming students about making the most of the research opportunities the program offers?

In order to truly make the most of the research experience, I would encourage incoming students to pursue a research question or topic that you are truly passionate about. It is really easy to get bogged down by all the potential avenues that you could go down; however, you want the time and effort you are putting into your research to be worthwhile. You’ll be surprised how much further you can go with your research when you are excited and passionate about the question or topic. Secondly, I would also recommend that you surround yourself with a solid thesis committee. Your thesis committee should be there to bring ideas and perspectives to your research, as well as guide you through the process. Lastly, I recommend incoming students to explore all the resources that MUSC has to offer! Since MUSC is such a research-motivated academic center, there are countless resources around campus for students to take advantage of (your thesis committee may also be a good place to start for identifying resources!).

How do you see the skills and knowledge you've gained from your research contributing to your future career as a genetic counselor?

Genetic counselors have a unique opportunity to be involved in a variety of genetics research, and I think it is important for genetic counseling students to be well equipped and ready to jump in at any time! Even though I came into the MSGC program with a research background, I believe the skills and knowledge I have gained through the program have given me more confidence and a well-rounded experience that I can translate to any future position as a genetic counselor.