MSc Genetic Counselling Program Hosts STEAM-D Students

The MSc in Genetic Counselling Graduate Program, in partnership with the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Design Program through the Office of Access and Outreach, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, recently hosted two genetic counselling outreach events for 50 students at the Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning (PGCRL) on the SickKids campus. 

Building on the success of a previous outreach event in February, we were invited to participate in the summer STEAM-D program, which is an experiential learning initiative focused on equity, targeting grades 10-12 students who identify with underrepresented groups in health sciences. The aim of the STEAM-D program is to broaden students' understanding of academic and career pathways in health sciences through interactive sessions. At the completion of the program, students earn a high school science credit, and are given a stipend. 

Our two half-day genetic counselling events were filled with engaging talks and group activities. Students navigated a simulated genetic counselling session, were taught how to draw their own pedigree, and participated in a hands-on experiment to extract DNA from strawberries. They also received an exclusive tour of the workspace of genetic counselling students, offering valuable insights into the profession and its environment. Throughout the day, students fostered a practical understanding of genetic concepts. 

These events were made possible thanks to the incredible support of Tamara Braid and Nishaat Misquita, genetic counsellors at SickKids, along with Carlos Giraldo, a current genetic counselling student, committed alumni and current students, and Riyana Babul-Hirji, along with other faculty of the U of T MSc program in Genetic Counselling. Their collective efforts continue to inspire and nurture the next generation of genetic counsellors. We plan to continue our outreach efforts next school year. 

Interested in genetic counselling?  Please see:  Information Sessions for Prospective Students | Molecular Genetics (utoronto.ca)