Student Corner
Claudia Cerezo is a member of the BCM Genetic Counseling Class of 2025. The Michigan Native received her undergraduate degree in Genomics and Molecular Genetics with a minor in Bioethics from Michigan State University in 2023. In her time at Michigan State, she worked as an undergraduate researcher in a cancer immunology lab and led various advocacy and education efforts on-campus. Through these experiences, she was drawn to a career in genetic counseling, where she hoped to advance the field of genetic medicine through research and patient-centered care.
As a genetic counseling student at BCM, Claudia has continued to pursue these passions. Her master’s thesis, Defining the Spectrum of PPFIA3-Related Disorders: A Genotype-Phenotype Study, focuses on reporting the clinical presentation of individuals with rare PPFIA3 variants to support the development of diagnostic tools and management recommendations. She was also selected to participate in the Texas Society of Allied Health Professions Student Leadership Development Initiative, where she contributed to discussions on common challenges, strategies, and solutions faced by leaders within the medical field. Following her graduation, she hopes to continue her work in the rare-disease space and lead efforts for accessible and equitable genetic services.
McKay Shumway, a member of the Genetic Counseling Program class of 2025, is a Utah native who completed his undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University. While at BYU, McKay’s leadership in the Best Buddies program ignited his passion for advocating for individuals and families impacted by genetic conditions. Excited to advance his career in genetic counseling, he moved his family to Houston to train at Baylor College of Medicine. McKay’s favorite aspect of the BCM Genetic Counseling Program is its location in the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, where he benefits from opportunities to collaborate with Baylor Genetics, Texas Children’s Hospital, and a large, supportive community of genetic counselors in the Houston area.
Each year, students visit the Texas Newborn Screening Lab to see firsthand how the screening is performed and results are communicated. They also learn about the Texas Cancer Registry and the Texas Birth Defects Registry.
Student Success Resources
We recognize that even the smartest, most passionate students need and deserve help and support to reach their full potential. Baylor College of Medicine provides academic and support services to promote academic excellence, health and wellness, and student engagement.
Beyond the classroom and the clinic, our students have robust opportunities to explore other interests and balance other aspects of their lives whether raising a family, honing musical or artistic talents, competing in sports, or leading community service initiatives.
The College sponsors many activities for students ranging from formal ceremonies and award programs to social events, community service events, and special activities. There is an athletic facility on campus – the Baylor Wellness Center (Baylor login required) – as well as intramural leagues for those interested in sports.
Our location in the heart of Houston, the nation’s fourth-largest city, provides many opportunities to pursue outside interests as well. Hermann Park, next door to the Texas Medical Center, offers trails, a public golf course, the Houston Zoo and an outdoor amphitheater. To the west are Rice University and the Rice Village Shopping Center. Directly north are the Museum District’s 18 art organizations, and just five miles further north is downtown, the hub of Houston’s restaurant, clubs, theaters, and sports stadiums.
As the mother of a toddler, I learned to balance my school responsibilities with the requirements of my life outside of school. The staff in Student Success Services were really helpful with this.
School of Health Professions
The Genetic Counseling Program is under the auspices of the School of Health Professions. Visit the school’s site to learn about other programs and academic and support services available to students, view the School of Health Professions Student Handbook, school-related news, and more.
Admissions
Ready to begin your journey to becoming a genetic counselor? Learn about our admissions process and get started today!