Class of 2027

Introducing the "DNAmic Cohort"

Diana Castaneda Elguero

"Born in Mexico and raised in Texas, I was exposed to healthcare disparities at an early age. Witnessing how marginalized groups struggled to access adequate care ignited my passion to find a profession where I could practice patient education, advocacy, and empowerment. I began my genetic counseling journey at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology in 2019. I returned to Plano, Texas, and began working as an EMT while volunteering at Crisis Text Line and shadowing at the Baylor Scott & White Genetic Counseling Cancer Center. These experiences solidified my desire to work toward improving patient outcomes and increasing access to genetic counseling, and I am so incredibly excited to continue my journey at UT Southwestern! In my free time, I love to crochet, read, watch movies, and hang out with my pup, Junie."

Mardarius Harper

"I am originally from Jackson, Mississippi, and earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Biological (Biomedical) Sciences from The University of Southern Mississippi in 2022. During my undergraduate journey, I interned with MS INBRE where I developed a research project focused on current knowledge of sickle cell disease/genetic services and volunteered at Compassus Hospice where I was able to support patients and caregivers who were navigating end-of-life care. Additionally, I worked as a Biology Learning Assistant. Shortly after graduation, I began working as an Endoscopy Technician and later relocated to Dallas, Texas, where I joined UT Southwestern as a Genetic Counseling Assistant in cancer genetics. These experiences reinforced my passion for genetic counseling and my commitment to expanding access and awareness of genetic services, especially in underserved and marginalized communities. I hope to inspire prospective Black students interested in the field. In my spare time, I enjoy binge-watching new (and comfort) TV shows, gaming, and concert-going."

Madison Howell

"Originally from Frisco, Texas, I graduated magna cum laude from Texas A&M University with my Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Psychology. In my gap year, I worked as a Genetic Coordinator Assistant within a high-volume prenatal testing laboratory in Santa Fe, New Mexico. My journey to genetic counseling began with my personal experience as a sibling of a person with special needs, which inspired my passion for advocacy, education, and compassionate care. In my spare time, you will usually find me on a hiking trail, at a new coffee shop, trying out a recipe, or working on one of my many craft projects."

Caroline Hunt

"Originally from St. Augustine, Florida, graduated from the University of Georgia in May of 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with minors in Genetics and Human Services. I am inspired to become a genetic counselor because of the opportunity to provide support and guidance to individuals navigating complex health challenges and periods of uncertainty. I have fallen in love with the ever-evolving nature of the field, a passion that was solidified through interviewing and shadowing genetic counselors. I am beyond excited to be part of the second cohort at UT Southwestern's Master of Science Genetic Counseling Program and for the opportunity to continue learning and using my strengths to help others. In my free time, I enjoy trying new coffee shops, reading, and going to the beach."

Alison Merket

"Originally from Dallas, Texas, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from Texas A&M College Station. Throughout my time at A&M, I did research with a drug discovery lab, and after graduating in 2022, I worked as a research assistant at a private research company, further developing my interest in research. I most recently worked in Houston as a Genetic Counseling Assistant, providing care to neurology patients, particularly those with rare forms of epilepsy, where I became passionate about advocating for families walking with rare diseases. I am drawn to the unique role genetic counselors have in blending deep genetic knowledge with psychosocial care to help patients navigate both medical and emotional complexities. Additionally, I have loved seeing how research in this field directly and meaningfully impacts patients’ lives and am eager to continue growing in this space, both as a learner and contributor. Outside of academics, I love spending quality time with my husband, exploring new coffee shops, playing board games, and a good round of pickleball."

Rima Patel

I am originally from Katy, Texas, and earned my undergraduate degree in Healthcare Studies at the University of Texas at Dallas. My background includes working as a billing Genetic Counseling Assistant at Natera, a sexual assault counselor for Pittsburgh Action Against Rape, and a volunteer at Chase’s Place, a school for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These experiences shaped my passion for psychosocial support, genetics, and advocating for equitable healthcare. Outside of these professional passions, my personal interests include watching comedy shows, trying out new recipes, and exploring the DFW area."

Macie Patten

"Originally from Idaho, I completed my Bachelor of Science in Human Biology with a Spanish minor at Brigham Young University-Idaho in 2024. Throughout my time at BYU-Idaho, I gained a passion for advocacy through volunteering as a domestic abuse advocate and a student success tutor. Most recently, I worked as a Genetic Counseling Assistant in Cancer Genetics at UT Southwestern for a year, further deepening my love for the field. Sourdough, musical theater, and a love for jazz fill my free time. I am passionate about increasing health equity for language minorities and am beyond excited to improve my skills and better help underserved patient populations as a genetic counselor."

Mackenzie Samsury

"I graduated from Texas A&M in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with minors in Mathematics and Genetics. For the last year I have been working as a Genetic Counseling Assistant in Cancer Genetics at UT Southwestern. I was born in Nashville, Tennessee, but raised in the DFW area most of my life, so this place is home! I am an avid reader - I own over 700 books and do not plan to stop buying more any time soon! I am excited to continue helping patients in the Dallas area get access to genetic counseling and equitable healthcare."