Abstract
Since the start of the genetic counseling profession in 1969, the field has continued to expand both in the U.S. and globally. International students choose to attend U.S. genetic counseling (GC) programs for various reasons, but limited research has been conducted on their experiences. This study aimed to better understand why international GC students chose to study in the U.S., their experiences with the application process and training, and their goals and path post-graduation. Forty-five current international GC students and graduates that attended U.S.-based genetic counseling programs participated in our anonymous, online survey. The top reasons participants chose to apply to a U.S. GC program were limited/no training in their country of citizenship (80%), the competitive application process in their country of citizenship (55.6%), & the ability to use a genetic counseling degree from the U.S. abroad (48.9%). More than 50% of respondents said that cultural factors, such as nondirectiveness, patient autonomy, preparation requirements prior to clinic, social expectations of the healthcare environment, and training, education levels, and roles of allied healthcare providers, were easy or very easy to understand and adapt. However, many mentioned challenges including: a lack of resources on how to navigate U.S. systems to get established after arriving (e.g., navigating banking, healthcare, housing) (66.7%), securing sufficient funding (44.4%), lack of support obtaining a visa or lack of information about the visa process (44.4%), and feeling like an outsider due to nationality, accent, etc. (38.9%). There was a significant difference in the ideal post-graduation job location at the beginning of their program between Canadian and non-Canadian respondents (p=<0.001), with more Canadian respondents indicating a desire to work in their country of citizenship, likely due to the availability of more jobs. Our study found a desire for more support/resources on getting established in the U.S. and adjusting to U.S. GC programs, and more mentorship and advice from previous or current international students throughout the international genetic counseling student experience. Genetic counseling programs should consider increasing mentorship opportunities and logistical support to improve the experiences of international GC students overall.