Haley Slater

My name is Haley and I’m thrilled to be a part of MCW’s third cohort of MSGC graduate students! Growing up nearby in Mequon, WI, my relationship with MCW began in high school when I worked in the MACC Fund Research Center. I was introduced to the field of genetics through my research on Glanzmann thrombasthenia, a rare bleeding disorder. This experience allowed me to hone my laboratory skills, and awarded me with my first research publication on the discovery of a novel pathogenic variant.

I went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Genetics & Genomics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During this time, I became involved with a small infertility research startup located off campus. Using participant saliva to perform lateral flow assays, I helped develop an at-home device for women to measure and chart their menstrual hormone levels. I additionally interned with the Sojourner Family Peace Center of Milwaukee in their Hope & Healing department. I helped organized the domestic violence shelter’s programming and monitored the Milwaukee County restraining order hotline during the COVID-19 pandemic. These experiences led me to discover the field of genetic counseling, and participating in the MCW GC-CREW internship program solidified my decision to become a counselor. I view a career in genetic counseling as the perfect marriage of two of my longstanding interests: genetics and advocacy.

Upon graduating and moving to Chicago in 2021, I worked closely with patients and practitioners as a Genetic Counselor Assistant on the Evanston Hospital personalized medicine team. This role not only reaffirmed my enthusiasm for this field, but also revealed the opportunity a genetic counseling career could afford me to make healthcare more equitable. To supplement my ability to address barriers and gaps in our health systems, I returned to MCW before beginning the MSGC program to earn my Graduate Certificate in Public Health. I hope to create a rewarding career that unifies my future Master’s degrees in both of these fields.

When I am not working or studying, I spend my time creating art, exploring nature, riding horses, and making friends. I enjoy music festivals and concerts, learning about different cultures through traveling, and embracing all that life has to offer!