October was a busy month for both first and second year students, but we all had opportunities to get to know each other more and have fun outside of class! Some of the first-years kicked off October with concerts in Columbia and Alpharetta, and enjoyed exploring Columbia’s music scene throughout the month!
We also took advantage of some events happening in the Columbia area to engage with the community. First-year Audrey organized our participation in the Team Hope Walk, a fundraiser held by the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. We helped to set up the event and got to participate in the walk!
More students also attended the Famously Hot Pink Half Marathon + 5k. We set up a table where members of the community could ask questions about genetic counseling. First-year Cassidy even ran the half marathon- go Cassidy!
As a part of our Introduction to Genetic Counseling class, the first year class took a field trip to the newborn screening laboratory. We toured the facility and had a Q&A session with the staff members!
Over fall break, the second-years attended the National Society of Genetic Counselors annual conference in Chicago, IL! They had a great time attending presentations, meeting others in the field, and reconnecting with classmates.
Of course, we made time to participate in some fall traditions, like apple picking and pumpkin carving! We also made sure to enjoy the fall weather by spending time outside and going on walks at Riverfront park. The first years had a great time designing the Hallogene costume for 2023, the “Barbie Genome!”
Other fun memories this month included attending the state fair, lots of study sessions, and movie nights! We are looking forward to what the rest of the semester will bring!
Through Our Eyes: Experiences from Genetic Counseling Students at the University of South Carolina 