Case Western Reserve University’s close proximity to world-class healthcare facilities is a draw for many students considering careers in medical settings. That was true of Rae Dwyer, who arrived on campus as an undergraduate student in August 2019.
Now a second-year student in the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program at the School of Medicine, Dwyer is taking full advantage of the opportunities available. This summer, she’s interned at MetroHealth with rotations in prenatal, cancer and cardiovascular clinics.
“The experience helped me grow more confident in my counseling skills and broadened my perspective on the role genetic counselors can play across different specialties,” she said.
Dwyer has come a long way since she first learned about genetics through Punnett squares in middle school, a lesson that sparked her interest in the subject. Her interest deepened after a shadowing experience with a prenatal genetic counselor in high school.
Once she began her undergraduate degree in biology at CWRU, Dwyer’s interest shifted toward the human aspect of genetics, such as how conditions affect families and shape their identities.
“I realized that genetic counseling was the perfect intersection of science, ethics, technology, and patient care,” she said.
Dwyer is heading into the second year of her genetic counseling program and her summer internship has given her insights into which specialty she might pursue once she graduates. General genetics appeals to her because of the varied nature of the work in supporting patients and providers seeking diagnoses.
“I have been surprised by how unique every case is,” Dwyer said. “Even with the same condition or indication, the family dynamics, psychosocial considerations, and patient priorities can differ drastically. It has taught me to approach each session with curiosity.”
Learn more about Dwyer’s experiences.
Answers have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
1 What initially drew you to CWRU?
CWRU stood out for its strong clinical focus, commitment to advocacy, and partnerships with world-class hospitals such as University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic, and MetroHealth, all close to campus. During my interview, I felt a genuine sense of community and knew I would be supported both academically and personally. The collaborative, student-centered environment gave me confidence that I would be well prepared for this career.
2. Why did you decide to pursue a master’s degree in genetic counseling?
I chose to pursue genetic counseling because the profession allows me to combine my passion for science with my desire to support people. I find it rewarding to explain information to patients and then observe them using that information to make informed decisions. This career offers a meaningful way to make a real difference in people’s lives through empathy, education, and advocacy.
3. How have your experiences augmented or complemented your coursework?
The clinical experiences bring meaning to the concepts from our coursework. Seeing real patients with the same conditions and scenarios we have discussed in class has helped deepen my understanding. It is especially rewarding when what we are learning directly aligns with what I am seeing in the clinic; it makes everything click.
4. Have there been any particularly rewarding moments?
The most rewarding moments tend to be small, such as when a patient leaves feeling heard, has their questions answered, or truly understands what we discussed. Those moments add up and make the work feel really meaningful.
5. What are your future career goals?
After graduating, I would like to spend time working in a clinical setting where I can meet directly with patients. Eventually, I could see myself training and mentoring future genetic counselors in an academic setting.