Summer Internship

The Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling is proud to offer a Summer Internship in Genetic Counseling.

This unique internship combines lectures, field trips, discussion, and patient experiences to provide the interns a broader view of the genetic counseling profession and preparation for graduate school. We accept approximately 10 students for a one week internship, and 2-4 of these students will have the opportunity to stay in Chicago for an additional week to shadow genetic counseling at various clinics in the area.

Below are some examples of topics covered during the first week of the internship:

• What it’s like to be a genetic counseling graduate student
• First hand experience as a genetic counselor
• Grief counseling
• Thesis development
• Ethical and cultural issues
• Patient experiences
• Disabilities and illness
• Alternative careers for genetic counselors
• Public health
• Coping with stress in a health profession
• Preparing your application to graduate school and next steps

In addition, the students will embark on field trips to museums, support groups and tours of facilities for individuals with disabilities or chronic illness. Chicago-area genetic counselors serve as faculty, giving you exposure to professionals with a range of experience from across the country who work in varied specialties.

To apply, send one official copy of your high school or college transcripts and a 1-2 page essay addressing your interest in the field of genetic counseling, and how this internship will be beneficial to you. Please include your name, address, email and phone number on your essay. In addition, indicate if you are interested in Week I only or Week I and II (shadowing opportunities).

Upcoming internship dates and application deadlines will be announced in early 2010.

Please contact us for more information.