Brit0312

Hi guys, I've just come across this thread (and that of applications for 2017) and I am very glad that I have found you! I'm a university student in New Zealand studying Genetics, Psychology and Exercise Science, and I have been trying to figure out how to apply to Genetic Counselling programs as an international student. I notice that some universities (I am interested in Canada, but if possible would apply in USA) require a course in Embryology. This isn't offered in New Zealand, and I was advised to enrol at the University of Cincinnati Clinical Embryology course. Have any of you completed this course, or have you got any advice for me as an international student? To train as a Clinical Geneticist, and you first must complete your medical degree (6 years), then attain a postgraduate degree in clinical genetics; otherwise you can train as a Genetic Associate (which is most like the Genetic Counselling degrees overseas) and this is usually obtained by an international Masters qualification. My biggest concerns are that in New Zealand I am assuming I wouldn't be able to get as much experience as you guys would - patient confidentiality would prevent me from getting any shadowing experience, we don't have organisations such as Planned Parenthood, and I am not sure how well the courses for my degree align with international ones. I am volunteering with a Youth Crisis helpline, and in the ED at my local hospital. My major is Genetics, which has a lot of DNA Tech and lab work as well as a lot of theory in human and mammalian development. Are any of you able to provide any more information or any advice? I'll be finishing my degree at the end of 2018 (different calendar years), which would mean I would begin applications in September 2019. Thank you!