Examining a career exploration workshop's influence on engagement in and accessibility to the genetic counseling profession

Prospective genetic counseling students face many barriers when seeking to engage with the genetic counseling (GC) profession and applying to graduate programs. These barriers are exacerbated for individuals who identify as part of an underrepresented minority group due to limited access to academic resources, lack of awareness about career options, and absence of role models and mentors. The NSGC Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Action Plan was developed to address disparities in the field with a focus on areas such as education and training. The JEDI Action Plan calls for development of resources and partnerships for recruiting and supporting minoritized communities' access to the field. The Genetic Counseling Career Research & Exploration Workshop (GC-CREW) is a 10-week virtual workshop that was created to offer an inclusive, comprehensive experience that introduces its attendees to the foundations of the GC practice with the mission to increase accessibility and promote diversity within the field. This study utilized a quantitative survey sent to attendees of the GC-CREW with the aim to assess the workshop's impact on their engagement with and accessibility to the GC profession. Results showed 87% of respondents identified as female and 29% as an underrepresented racial or ethnic minority. Respondents that participated in the GC Admissions Match reported a 45% match rate, and 90% percent of respondents reported the GC-CREW helped them envision themselves as a genetic counselor. These findings demonstrate the workshop is an effective way for individuals from underrepresented groups to gain exposure and engage with the genetic counseling profession. Eliminating barriers and promoting accessible opportunities for interested individuals to learn more about the field and prepare for the graduate application process is crucial. These actions move the GC profession toward better reflecting the diverse communities it serves, further equipping it to address their unique healthcare needs.