Email

amanda.pastrano@bcm.edu

Positions

Genetic Counseling Student

School of Health Professions
Baylor College of Medicine

Professional Statement

I am originally from Houston, Texas, and I graduated from Texas A&M University with a B.S. in Biochemistry and Genetics and a minor in Bioinformatics. As an undergraduate, I worked as a research technician in an evolutionary genomics laboratory and spent a summer at Houston Methodist studying the function of RNA methylation readers in microglia. Beyond research, I volunteered as a crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line and coordinated a mentorship program for incoming freshmen.

After graduation, I moved to Northern Virginia and began working as a genetic counseling assistant at Inova Fairfax Hospital, where I supported a multi-specialty team of genetic counselors and geneticists. In this role, I gained experience working with a diverse patient population, engaging in psychosocial discussions, and learning about the complexities of billing and access to care. I also volunteered at Jill’s House, a nonprofit that provides short-term respite care for families raising children with intellectual disabilities.

I am thrilled to be continuing my education as part of the Baylor College of Medicine Genetic Counseling Program. I am excited to learn, grow, and contribute to the genetic counseling field!