Email

megan.washington@bcm.edu

Positions

Genetic Counseling Student

School of Health Professions
Genetic Counseling Program

Education

BA from Baylor University

05/2019 - Houston, Texas United States

Biology

AS from Houston Community College

05/2015 - Houston, Texas United States

Natural Sciences

Professional Statement

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. As a young girl, I would always be the most excited student when it came time for the science lesson. However, genetics took a special place in my heart beginning in high school. I became infatuated with heredity, gene variation, and working on Punnett squares and pedigrees. As an undergraduate student at Baylor University (Waco, TX), I continued my motivation to advance my career in genetics. During my undergraduate studies, I was also engaged in a community outreach program through various nonprofit organizations, such as the Harris Country Street Olympics, and the Harris County Y.E.T. Center. Other rewarding volunteer opportunities I have had the privilege to participate in include the Texas Prader-Willi Association ‘People With Smiles’ camp, and the Texas Children’s Periwinkle Foundation.
After graduating college, I accepted a position as a research technician in the laboratory of Dr. Brendan Lee at BCM and was enrolled in the Pre-Graduate Education and Training (PGET) Program of the Human Genome Sequencing Center. As a Research Technician, I assisted with various in vitro and in vivo experiments that further enhance my understanding of translational medicine. Learning analytical techniques to interpret statistically significant data has helped to strengthen my knowledge of translational research and the pathogenesis of many skeletal genetic conditions, such as O.I. This opportunity has helped me understand how genetic disorders are diagnosed and the importance of research in novel discoveries.
My passion is to contribute to therapeutic intervention by providing support to all patients regarding genetic anomalies. I think that treating families with respect and having integrity is a core component of genetic counseling. As a genetic counselor, I seek to work diligently and use my determination and drive to help others endure the shortcomings of their genetic diagnoses. I want to commit to providing the best care and resources to patients. My longing to help improve patient care and sincere attitude toward their well-being will help me succeed as a genetic counselor.