Genetic Counseling Students
Class of 2027
Taylor DePolo
Pennsylvania State University
BS, Psychology, Life Sciences Track (2023), Minor: Biology
Taylor DePolo (she/her) is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her passion for genetics began in her childhood, when her grandmother was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. Her first-hand experience with the disease sparked an interest in genetics which was solidified in college. During her time as an undergraduate student, Taylor was a research assistant for the Empathy and Moral Psychology Lab studying how cultural dehumanization, attitudes, stereotyping, and in-group beliefs affect perceived dehumanization and the mental health of the studied population. She is working on a manuscript that focuses on the dehumanization of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. Additionally, she was the Tapestry Dance Company Leader for THON, a student-run philanthropy, and a teaching assistant. Upon graduating, Taylor became a Clinical Trial Research Assistant for Neuroendocrine and Thyroid Cancer at the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Ohio State University. With genetics playing a huge part in cancer research, Taylor was introduced to genetic counseling and never looked back. Volunteering has also been a huge part of Taylor’s post-grad experience. She is a community educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, for which she visits local living facilities giving presentations to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their family members. Additionally, she is a crisis counselor for The Crisis Text Line, where she has gained invaluable experience learning skills involved in de-escalation and applying these skills to crises in real time. In her free time, Taylor loves to hike, take cycling classes, bake, and play with her cat. She is excited to pursue a career about which she is passionate and looks forward to being a genetic counselor that provides her patients with a safe and accepting environment. She cannot wait to make her dream a reality at Kean!
Jaya Dhadda
Texas Woman’s University
B.S., Biology (2024), Minors: Chemistry, Psychology and Philosophy
Jaya Dhadda is from Dallas, Texas. Her early volunteer experience at a domestic violence shelter sparked a lifelong interest in connecting with others through empathy and support. That moment of realizing the shared humanity between herself and those she served laid the foundation for her future in genetic counseling. Jaya graduated from Texas Woman’s University with a degree in Biology and minors in Chemistry, Psychology and Philosophy—an intentional blend that reflects her dedication to understanding both the science and the stories behind every patient. While pursuing her degree, Jaya worked in various roles for hospitals such as Baylor Scott & White and Texas Health Presbyterian, gaining insight into the inner workings of medical facilities. On campus, Jaya served as the Volunteer Chair of the JNIWL Legacy Leaders scholar program, and contributed to philanthropic efforts of her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, by attending volunteer events. During her senior year, Jaya returned to the domestic abuse treatment center where she first volunteered, this time interning under a professional Advocate. After graduating, she worked as an Academic Enrichment Specialist for Communities in Schools, teaching almost a hundred students in under-resourced schools. To deepen her understanding of the field, Jaya shadowed various genetic counselors across pediatric, cancer, and prenatal specialties around the Dallas area at Children’s Health, Medical City, Baylor Scott and White, and UT Southwestern. She also completed the GC Immersive program at Color, a fully remote course designed to expand the knowledge of aspiring, diverse genetic counselors. Inspired by the balance of science, communication, and compassion that the profession requires, Jaya is thrilled to continue her journey toward becoming a genetic counselor. She chose Kean University for its focus on community, innovation, and commitment to training well-rounded, culturally aware counselors. She’s excited to take this next step surrounded by a passionate cohort and supportive faculty!
Ariana Flores
Ithaca College
B.S., Biology (2022), Minor: Counseling
Ariana Flores is from Lyndhurst, New Jersey. At Ithaca College, she was a Martin Luther King Jr. Scholar, a highly selective program focused on leadership, social justice, and academic excellence within underrepresented communities. This experience helped shape her passion for advocacy and her drive to make healthcare more inclusive. As an undergraduate, she conducted developmental genetic research on De Barsy Syndrome using C. elegans, deepening her scientific understanding of rare genetic disorders. This research combined with her interest in working directly with people led her to decide that the field of genetic counseling was the right fit for her. After graduating, Ariana joined the High Risk Cancer Genetics Program at NYU Langone/Bellevue Hospital as a Genetic Counseling Assistant. In this role, she was the first point of contact for patients, managing referrals and scheduling appointments. Ariana primarily worked with underserved and non-English speaking patients, many of whom were Spanish-speaking. She often recognized a sense of relief from patients when they realized she spoke Spanish. It not only allowed her to clearly communicate what genetic counseling was, but also helped build trust and rapport with patients. This experience made Ariana realize how crucial language is in healthcare, as it directly impacts patients’ understanding and comfortability in a healthcare setting. As a certified Spanish medical interpreter and proud Cuban American, she is committed to bridging the gap in healthcare access and understanding for underserved communities. She is excited to join the Kean Genetic Counseling Graduate Program and become part of the 2% of Latino professionals in genetic counseling. Ariana looks forward to contributing to Kean GCGP’s strong community outreach efforts and helping expand awareness and access to genetic services. In her free time, Ariana enjoys traveling, going to the gym, reading psychological thrillers, and spending time with her family. A former competitive swimmer, she still finds joy in the water, whether a pool or the ocean.
Anna Lieberman
Pennsylvania State University
B.S., Biology (2024)
Anna Lieberman is from Pottsville, Pennsylvania. As an undergraduate, Anna assisted with research at the Child Health Study, examining the ways that different life experiences can affect a child's health and well-being. She also worked as a Patient Care Partner in the emergency department at Lehigh Valley Health Network in Pennsylvania. Anna was a student volunteer for two years at Penn State THON, a student-run philanthropy committed to providing emotional and financial support to children and families impacted by childhood cancer and ensuring funding for critical research. She worked year-round to fundraise, spread awareness, and helped run the 46-hour dance marathon that culminated the school year. Her work with the THON children and families inspired her as she began to work as a Genetic Counseling Assistant (GCA) in Allentown, Pennsylvania at the St. Luke's University Health Network Cancer Center where she supported a team of cancer genetic counselors and maternal fetal medicine genetic counselors. In her free time, Anna enjoys reading, cooking, watching sports, and exploring local coffee shops and businesses. Her passion for genetic counseling has grown with each new experience, and she is thrilled to be joining the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program as a part of the Class of 2027!
Melody Lin
Stony Brook University
B.S., Psychology (2023), Minor: Biology
Melody Lin (she/her/hers) is from Rockland County, New York. In college, she was an Undergraduate Team Leader in research on autism spectrum disorder. She found immense passion in working with families directly so became involved in the launch of SPARK for Autism as the Assistant Site Coordinator at Stony Brook University. She also was a trainee with the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program at Stony Brook University. These experiences led her to participate in the Warren Alpert Foundation Genetic Counseling Internship at Sarah Lawrence College. After graduation, Melody began working as the Genetic Counselor Assistant at Weill Cornell Medicine OB-GYN in New York, a role in which she was able to practice direct patient counseling, coordinate testing, and shadow multiple specialties within the New York Presbyterian hospital system. In her free time, Melody enjoys volunteering, exploring historical landmarks and museums, and playing video/tabletop games with friends. Melody is enthusiastic about pursuing her interests of patient care and health equity at Kean University and is incredibly excited to join the field of genetic counseling!
Sarah Montagna
College of William and Mary
BA, Biology (2022)
Sarah Montagna is from Mountainside, New Jersey. At the College of William & Mary, she conducted research in a functional genomics lab, investigating the role of the CG11180 gene in Drosophila stem cell development. Additionally, she was the President of the William & Mary Swim Club as well as a freshman resident assistant. After graduating, Sarah worked as a medical assistant at an otolaryngology medical practice. This provided her with firsthand experience working in a clinical environment and further solidified her passion for working directly with patients. She then accepted a genetic counseling assistant position at New Jersey Perinatal Associates (NJPA), a maternal fetal medicine office in Livingston, NJ. In this role, she worked with prenatal genetic counselors to coordinate genetic testing and assisted in providing prenatal care. Her experience as a genetic counseling assistant provided her with extensive exposure to both the clinical and interpersonal facets of genetic counseling. Sarah is also deeply committed to advocacy work. She volunteered at the Children’s Specialized Hospital, providing adaptive swimming lessons to children with disabilities. She currently serves as a trained crisis counselor for Connect & Breathe to support individuals navigating post-abortion experiences. These experiences have refined her ability to listen with empathy and support individuals’ needs. In her free time, Sarah enjoys running, trying new coffee shops, and spending time with her dog. She is thrilled to join the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2027!
Emily Newman
Clark University
B.A. in Biology, Concentration in Health, Science, and Society (2025)
Emily Newman is from River Edge, New Jersey. As an undergraduate, Emily pursued a range of academic and extracurricular experiences that deepened her passion for genetic counseling. She contributed to research as a laboratory assistant studying the genetic diversity of Basidiobolus. She also volunteered in a cancer genetics lab, gaining insight into the clinical applications of genetics research. Emily has always been passionate about fostering inclusive environments, especially for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities – a passion sparked by her time as a Teacher’s Assistant in a special services school district. This commitment continued through her work as a behavior technician in an autism services clinic, her involvement with Best Buddies, and her volunteer role with Rising Kites. On campus, Emily served as a Peer Educator Intern at her university’s Center for Counseling and Personal Growth and volunteered as a counselor for the Crisis Text Line. She served as President of the Challah for Hunger club, where she advocated for food insecurity awareness and action. She was also a teacher’s assistant for American Sign Language (ASL) courses, promoting communication accessibility and inclusion. In addition to her academic and volunteer commitments, Emily served as the captain of her NCAA DIII volleyball program. In her free time, Emily enjoys dancing, watching Friends, and playing daily word games. She was drawn to the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program due to its emphasis on diversity, advocacy, and compassionate care. Emily is thrilled to be part of the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2027 and is excited to take the next step in her journey toward becoming a genetic counselor.
Sarah Rogillio
UNC – Wilmington
B.S., Biology (December 2024)
Sarah Rogillio is from Austin, Texas. She discovered the field of genetic counseling during a high school biology course and has aspired to become a genetic counselor ever since, aiming to assist patients on their diagnostic odysseys. As an undergraduate, Sarah was a student-athlete on the University of North Carolina-Wilmington swim team and a member of the Honors College. She shared her passion for swimming by teaching it to children. She enjoyed interacting with children from all backgrounds and building relationships with them, which fueled her desire for patient care even more. Additionally, she established the first chapter of Morgan’s Message on her campus to encourage mental health awareness among student-athletes. This initiative earned her an invitation to represent her campus at the inaugural student-athlete symposium as part of the NCAA Inclusion Forum. Sarah also conducted research for her undergraduate thesis on the metabolic processes of C. elegans in anaerobic conditions. In her spare time, she enjoys art and crafts as well as spending time outdoors. Sarah is excited to embark on her journey to become a genetic counselor in the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2027!
Savannah Rowden
Colorado Mesa University
B.S. Cellular, Molecular, and Developmental Biology (2023), Minor: Chemistry
Savannah Rowden (she/her) is from Fort Collins, CO. While studying at Colorado Mesa University (CMU), she discovered genetic counseling and was immediately intrigued. Pursuing her interest in genetics, Savannah participated in the GEP Pathways Project, annotating genes in the insulin pathway of two Drosophila species. At CMU, she held leadership roles in the Graduate Education in Medical Sciences Club and served as Special Projects Manager on the Sustainability Council. Dedicated to supporting others, Savannah volunteered as a patient companion with HopeWest Hospice. After graduating, she completed a six-month genetic counseling internship at Grand Valley Oncology, during which she shadowed professionals, reviewed oncology-related genetic research, and explored the administrative side of the field. She later worked as a Medical Imaging Assistant in Northern Colorado, gaining experience with both inpatient and outpatient radiology patients. She also volunteered for the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate Center’s hotline serving Northern Colorado. In her free time, Savannah enjoys hiking, swimming, crocheting, cooking, attending concerts, and reading. She is thrilled to join the Genetic Counseling Graduate Program at Kean University, and chose Kean for the welcoming faculty and students, urban location, and commitment to increasing diversity in the field.
Florie Sambuis
Texas A&M University
B.S., Psychology (2024), Minor: Genetics
Originally from Nice, France, Florie Sambuis moved to the United States at the age of eight and discovered her passion for genetic counseling during her sophomore year of high school. She graduated summa cum laude from Texas A&M University, where she was actively involved in advocacy and research. For nearly three years, she served as a hotline advocate for the Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC), providing support and resources to survivors. Florie gained research experience as an assistant in two distinguished labs: the Social Cognition Lab, studying counterfactual thinking and behavioral consequences, and the Avian Quantitative & Functional Genomics Lab, where her work focused on age-related declines in broiler breeder fertility and semen parameters. She completed several specialized training programs, including the Color Genetic Counseling Immersive Program, the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Genetic Assistant Training Program, and the Advocate Genetics Grad School Prep Program. As part of the latter, she developed a bilingual counseling aid to simplify donor egg epigenetics and mentored interns on topics such as high carrier numbers, patient literacy, and fertility-related concerns. Returning to her roots, Florie completed two internships at Georges Pompidou European Hospital in Paris, where she shadowed genetic counselors in cardiology and oncology, assisted with pedigree building, and contributed to personalized risk assessments. She also volunteered with l’Escale, a nonprofit organization supporting social integration for young adults with autism and intellectual disabilities. After attending the 2024 European Society of Human Genetics Conference (ESHG), she completed an oncology genetic counseling internship at Medisyn, a clinical laboratory in Switzerland. Currently, Florie is a Genetic Counseling Assistant at GeneDx, specializing in accession checking for various tests, including exome, genome, array, and panel testing. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family, friends, and two Siamese cats. Florie is thrilled to continue pursuing her dream as part of the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2027 and looks forward to making a lasting impact as a future genetic counselor.
Class of 2026
Aciana Franco
Brigham Young University
B.S., Molecular Biology (2021)
Aciana Franco (she/her/ella) is from Heber City, Utah. During her time as an undergraduate, Aciana conducted bioinformatics research, worked as a summer youth counselor, and volunteered full-time for a year and a half in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Southern California serving Spanish speaking communities. She was also awarded the Student of the Year Award for her time with BYU’s Risk Management Department. Upon graduating, Aciana worked as a paraprofessional in a high school special education classroom where she helped students with complex medical histories or genetic conditions and grew her love for advocacy work. Aciana later took a position as an oncology genetic counseling assistant (GCA) at Intermountain Health where she took charge of an alternative workflow pathway for their clinic. While working as a GCA, Aciana shadowed genetic counselors and continued to volunteer with community groups such as Utah Foster Care and the United Angels advocacy group. She also volunteered regularly in the emergency department at a local children’s hospital. In her free time, Aciana loves to spend time outdoors or playing video games with her partner. Aciana is thrilled to join the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2026 and fulfill her dream of being a genetic counselor!
Anja Hall
Christopher Newport University
B.S., Cellular, Molecular, & Physiological Biology (2024), Minors: Psychology; Leadership Studies
Anja Hall is from Norfolk, Virginia. Her diagnosis with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in 7th grade drew her towards prenatal genetic counseling, in which she could help others who also battle reproductive-related diseases. Following her teenage self’s plan to pursue the field, Anja graduated from the Christopher Newport University Honors Program after studying Cellular & Molecular Biology and double minoring in Psychology and Leadership Studies. Anja worked as a restaurant server and as a research assistant in a molecular biology laboratory, where she assisted in developing a uniquely regulated plasmid to be used as a positive control for anti-bioterrorism gene expression studies. Throughout school, she also volunteered as a crisis counselor, youth group counselor, Planned Parenthood ambassador, and student tutor. Anja extensively shadowed various genetic counselors in the prenatal, pediatric, and cancer specialties at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters, and Virginia Oncology Associates. Motivated by patients’ stories, she conducted her senior thesis on “Demographic Disparities in Epigenetic Health Risks Fueling Transgenerational Cycles of Oppression.” In her free time, Anja enjoys hiking, weightlifting, drawing, and cozying up with her cats! Anja chose Kean because of the vibrant community and its commitment to being progressive and forward-thinking, two values she believes are essential to being an intersectional genetic counselor. Anja couldn’t be more ecstatic to be chasing her long-time dreams and living near NYC by studying at the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program!
Kelci Hill
Tarleton State University
B.S., Biology (2024), Minor: Psychology
Kelci Hill is from Murrieta, California. She discovered the profession of genetic counseling from a genetics class in her second year of college. Subsequently, she spent time shadowing genetic counselors, volunteering for rare disease organizations, and working as a tutor in college. Advocating and volunteering is a passion of Kelci’s; she volunteered with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Crisis Text Line, and the United Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency (MSD) Foundation. For the United MSD Foundation, Kelci served on the legislative advocacy, newborn screening, and diagnostic laboratory outreach committees. Kelci also volunteered with ENGin, a nonprofit organization which supports teaching of English to Ukrainian medical students. During her undergraduate years, Kelci was a student-athlete with the Tarleton State University softball team. She shared her passion for sports through volunteering with a baseball league for those with special needs in her college town. Kelci also served as a congressperson for the Tarleton State University Student Government Association and was a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. She was involved in a SETBP1 Society Community Outreach Research Study which focused on assessing the behaviors and characteristics of children diagnosed with SETBP1 haploinsufficiency disorders, along with the parental needs thereof. Kelci chose Kean University because of the welcoming atmosphere from both the staff and current students. She cannot wait to step foot on campus and begin working towards becoming a genetic counselor!
Alisha Jain
University of Virginia
B.A., Biology (2022)
Alisha Jain is originally from Sterling, Virginia. At the University of Virginia, Alisha volunteered with All Girls STEM Society, working with after-school programs to excite children about science. Additionally, she worked as a math tutor and a biology teaching assistant. These experiences truly propelled her passion for teaching STEM. She has also had many experiences in wet bench research with a focus on genetics. She furthered this interest by interning at HemoShear Therapeutics, a company dedicated to developing treatments for extremely rare metabolic genetic conditions. After discovering genetic counseling, she knew this was the career she wanted – the perfect amalgamation of her interests in science, teaching, and advocacy. She began shadowing and was impressed by the dynamic nature of the career, each patient presenting with a new issue to solve. To prepare, she volunteered as a bilingual counselor for Crisis Text Line and worked as a behavior technician in an early-intervention autism clinic. Although she did not match in her first cycle, she never wavered from her dedication and sought a Genetic Counseling Assistant (GCA) role to improve her application. She worked as a GCA in the Genomic Diagnostic Lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and Indian dance! Alisha was attracted to Kean for its interdisciplinary courses with students from the counseling department, and had an amazing interview experience in which she felt very welcomed by the faculty. She hopes to focus her future work on South Asian and Spanish speaking patients, helping them understand more about genetic health despite language barriers. She is beyond excited to embark on this journey at Kean University and finally live out her dream of becoming part of this inspiring field!
Sydnee McIlvaine
Rutgers University
B.A., Genetics (2024), Minor: Psychology; Certificate: Genetic Counseling
Sydnee McIlvaine is from Millstone Township, New Jersey. She has loved genetics since childhood and learned about the career of genetic counseling as early as middle school. During her undergraduate years at Rutgers University, she was one of three people in her graduating class to earn a Certificate in Genetic Counseling. This program included coursework with genetic counseling master’s students, completing a year of crisis counseling, and shadowing a genetic counselor. Her experience shadowing five genetic counselors from GeneScreen solidified that this was the right career path for her. Sydnee founded the Genetic Counseling Interest Club at Rutgers, with the mission of increasing interest in the profession from a diverse population. Outside of school, Sydnee serves as Secretary on the executive board of the New Jersey chapter of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. She also worked in a biology lab processing test samples during the height of the pandemic. You will often find her trying out new pet-friendly places with her dog, Reed, whom she raised to be a guide dog through The Seeing Eye, or enjoying the Jersey shore with friends and family. Sydnee cannot wait to start her graduate education at Kean University!
Ryan Mendel
The College of New Jersey
B.A., Biology (2021), Minor: Statistics
Ryan Mendel is from Marlton, New Jersey. As an undergraduate, Ryan was involved in research as a member of a molecular biology and genetics lab that studied the impact of post-translational modifications in the model organism C. elegans. She also acted as a tour guide for the biology department for aspiring students and served as a teaching assistant and tutor for the introductory biology course at her college. Ryan was also heavily involved in volunteerism on campus, serving as the Chapter President of the national community service organization Alpha Phi Omega, as well as acting as a crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line. During her time as an undergraduate, Ryan became passionate about working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), working as both a classroom aide in a preschool autism program in her hometown, and as a direct support professional for adults with autism near campus. Upon graduation, Ryan worked at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) in the Mitochondrial Medicine Translational Research Group. During her years at CHOP, she worked to identify potential therapies for patients with Single Large-Scale Mitochondrial DNA Deletion Syndromes (SLSMDS) utilizing a C. elegans model of the disease, as well as train numerous undergraduate students in the art of laboratory research. She was also able to gain invaluable experience meeting patients with rare mitochondrial diseases, and discussing with their caretakers the impact a rare disease diagnosis has on their family. Ryan’s time at CHOP has given her insight on the importance of having a genetic counselor on the care team of individuals with complex diagnoses, and the role of the genetic counselor in both advocacy and furthering the research and funding of these diseases. In her free time, Ryan enjoys running, reading, eating sweets, and binge-watching reality television shows. Ryan was drawn to Kean’s program due to its passionate leadership and dedication to increasing the awareness and diversity of the field of genetic counseling. Ryan is excited to begin her journey as a genetic counselor as part of the Kean University Genetic Counseling Graduate Program Class of 2026!
Abigayle Nafus
Pennsylvania State University
B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2024)
Abigayle Nafus is from Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania. She first discovered her passion for genetics in a middle school science class. While pursuing her degree at Penn State, she honed her focus on becoming a genetic counselor through her involvement on campus and in the community. For almost three years, she worked in a lab studying inborn errors of purine metabolism and their effects on numerous rare genetic disorders. Abigayle specifically focused on the phenotypic responses of GART gene deficiencies and treatments for ADSL-deficiency, a rare disease that only affects ~80 individuals worldwide. She also spent time volunteering with Life Link-PSU as a mentor to young adults with special needs, served as a teaching assistant to an “Intro to Genetics” course, and was President of Penn State’s Chapter of the American Society for Microbiology. Off campus, Abigayle worked with Centre Safe, the local domestic violence and sexual abuse shelter. Her favorite and most rewarding experiences there included working on a sexual assault response team at the Mount Nittany Medical Center and facilitating weekly support groups for survivors. In her free time, Abi loves to read or do anything creative. She looks forward to joining the welcoming environment at Kean University and cannot wait to contribute to the ever-growing field of genetic counseling.
Angelina Santini
East Stroudsburg University
B.S., Biology (2023)
Angelina Santini is from Harmony, New Jersey. During her undergraduate studies, she gained invaluable experience as a public health and research assistant at a wildlife genetics laboratory, where she educated clients about the prevalence of tick-borne diseases. Upon discovering her passion for genetic counseling, Angelina pursued various opportunities to shadow genetic counselors and conducted an independent research study on the evolution of genetic testing. Angelina received the Sigma Xi award for Outstanding Achievement in the Major of Biology for this study. Angelina actively serves as an in-person crisis response advocate for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, for which she uses her counseling skills to aid the safety and support of her clients. As a volunteer for both the Women in STEM Committee and Abilities of Northwest New Jersey, Angelina empowered individuals of all ages to explore possible career paths in science while emphasizing the importance of diversity in the workplace. In her free time, Angelina enjoys spending time with family, getting coffee with her dog, and helping out around her family farm. She is excited to pursue her dreams as a genetic counselor and exercise her personal mantra of “make every patient feel heard, understood, and valued”. She is grateful to be able to grow her experiences with fellow students and staff at Kean University and is looking forward to the journey ahead!
Class of 2025
Jade Gmitter
Genetic Counselor
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Moncrief Cancer Institute
Dallas, TX
Aubrey Lewis
Pending
Parva Mashar
Pending
Chelsea Munger
Genetic Counselor
Ferre Institute
Binghamton, NY
Jaycie Rickert
Genetic Counselor
Arkansas Children’s Hospital
Pediatric Department/Molecular Genetics Pathology Lab
Little Rock, AR
Audra Vanroboys
Genetic Counselor
Genetics and Personalized Cancer Prevention Program
Department of Radiology
Weill Cornell Medicine
Leah Westcott
Genetic Counselor
New Jersey Perinatal Associates
Livingston, NJ
Ashley Zavodnick
Pending
Class of 2024
Carolina Conti
Genetic Counselor
Bing Cancer Center
OhioHealth
Columbus, OH
Gabriel Koslow
Genetic Counselor
Aortic Disease Center
University of Florida Health
Gainesville, FL
Rebecca Hook
Genetic Counselor
Hackensack Meridian Health
Maternal Fetal Medicine
Hackensack, NJ
Carissa Huber
Genetic Counselor
NYU Langone Fertility Center
NYU Langone Health
New York, NY
Claudia Jackson
Genetic Counselor
Smilow Cancer Genetics
Yale New Haven Health
New Haven, CT
Madison Perry
Genetic Counselor
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Nuvance Health
Poughkeepsie, NY
Corinne Schenone
Genetic Counselor
Division of Genetics
St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital
Paterson, NJ
Dahlia Shaaban
Genetic Counselor
Lexington Oncology
Lexington Medical Center
Columbia, SC
Class of 2023
Janel Barbee, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Smilow Cancer Genetics
Yale New Haven Health
New Haven, CT
Makena Green, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism
Children’s Specialty Group
Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters
Norfolk, VA
Jessica Hopkins, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
St. Luke's University Health Network
Maternal Fetal Medicine
Easton, PA
Marissa Jensen, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
New Jersey Perinatal Associates
Livingston, NJ
Megan Keeney, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Pediatric Genetics
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital
Knoxville, TN
Debra Paul, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
NextGen Genetics
Santa Clara, CA
Amanda Rentas, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine
Department of Pediatrics
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, TN
Morgan Secoy, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute
Lehigh Valley Health Network
East Stroudsburg, PA
Class of 2022
Congratulations to our first class. All students employed prior to graduation!
First Graduates of Kean’s Genetic Counseling Program Have Jobs Waiting - Kean University
Maya Briskin, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Integrated Genetics
New Brunswick, NJ
Esther Choi, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
New Jersey Perinatal Associates
Livingston, NJ
Jamie Cormier, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
Division of Human Genetics
Department of Pediatrics
Lifespan - Rhode Island Hospital
Providence, RI
Monica Dillon, M.S.
Genetic Counselor
St. Luke’s University Health Network Cancer Center
Bethlehem, PA
Jessica Dowling, M.S.
Oncology Genetic Counselor
Advocate Christ Hospital
Chicago, IL
Rebecca Kelly, M.S.
Laboratory Genetic Counselor
Mayo Clinic
Hematopathology Division
Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
Remote position