Email

aeran.melancon@bcm.edu

Positions

Genetic Counseling Student

SCHOOL OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS
Baylor College of Medicine

Education

BS from University of Louisiana at Lafayette

12/2019 - Lafayette, Louisiana United States

Medical and Allied Health Sciences

Professional Statement

I was born and raised in south Louisiana. I graduated in December 2019 from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a B.S. in Biology and a concentration in Medical and Allied Health Sciences. Throughout my undergrad years, I held roles including a research assistant in an ecology lab, a CNA in a long-term care facility, a substitute teacher through my local school district, and a cytotechnology assistant in a pathology lab.

After graduation, I began a new role as a behavioral health assistant at a therapy clinic that specialized in autism spectrum disorder and developmental delays. Here I saw a new breadth of patient and familial empowerment as well as personal and community advocacy. In 2022, I began volunteering at a sexual assault response organization as a crisis hotline advocate, and this turned into a full-time position as a response advocate. Working alongside the legal and counseling departments, I was able to support survivors at every stage of the healing process. As I engaged with clients, I saw the direct impact of strong emotional and social support for those in crisis or healing from trauma. These experiences will serve as the foundation for my development as a student and future genetic counselor.

I am so excited to be a part of the Baylor College of Medicine Genetic Counseling Program. I had never lived outside of my home state before moving to Houston for school. I love trying new coffee shops and restaurants and checking out all of the music and theatre events around the city. Please feel free to reach out with any questions about the application process, BCM, or life in Houston.