Ace Harris

Ace was born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. He graduated magna mum laude with High Distinguished Honors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Psychology. Ace discovered genetic counseling in his junior year of his undergraduate career and immediately knew it was for him. To further this goal, he shadowed at the UAB Women and Infants Center and the Kirklin Clinic. He also attended HudsonAlpha’s Exploring Genetic Counseling seminar and participated in a genetic counseling mentorship program through Clover Genetics.

Ace’s experiences outside of genetic counseling were extremely fulfilling. He volunteered at Girls Inc. as a mentor and tutor, and The Trevor Project as a crisis counselor. Ace was also the founder and president of UAB’s Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (oSTEM) chapter and a College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Champion. When Ace is not volunteering or studying, he’s usually working as a pharmacy technician at CVS where he’s been for the last 3 years. When trying to relax, Ace tends to turn to reading, listening to music, or writing poetry.

Alex Rollins

Alex is from the St. Louis, Missouri metro area. She graduated summa cum laude from Saint Louis University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Health Care Ethics. During her time as an undergraduate, she volunteered for a student-run sexual assault hotline designed to provide immediate and long-term resources for survivors. Additionally, she worked as a teaching assistant for introductory biology and genetics classes. These teaching experiences led her to join a research lab studying undergraduate pedagogical learning techniques. She primarily worked under PhD and postdoc students aiding them in data collection and data analysis.

After graduating in 2023, Alex moved to the Dallas-Fort Worth area and worked as a cancer genetic counseling assistant at UT Southwestern. On a team of seven other assistants, she was an integral part of the cancer genetics department which saw over 6,000 patients in the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Her major tasks included taking family histories, processing patient results, and disclosing negative and variant of uncertain significance (VUS) results to patients. In her free time, Alex enjoys training her cat, Suki, and putting together Lego sets.

Emily (Gaines) Sandlin

Emily is from Athens, Alabama and attended The University of Alabama at Birmingham for her undergraduate degree. In April of 2022, she graduated summa cum laude with High Distinguished Honors in the Science and Technology Program, earning a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Genomic Sciences and minors in Biology and Chemistry. She was also awarded her Master of Science degree in Multidisciplinary Biomedical Sciences with a concentration in genetics. During undergrad, she found a passion for teaching and simplifying complex topics while working as a chemistry teaching assistant. She also worked in a molecular genetics lab, studying cystic fibrosis and laboratory techniques such as the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system. She sought clinical experience as a patient volunteer with Children’s Hospital of Alabama and as patient care technician on a medical-surgical unit at St. Vincent’s Hospital. Following graduation, she joined GeneDx as a remote genetic counseling assistant and has been working on their rapid testing team while volunteering with the Exceptional Foundation and Crisis Text Line. In her free time, she enjoys being with her family, friends, and pet rabbits, and going on cross-country road trips with her husband.

Hannah Eady

Hannah is from Madison, Alabama. She graduated summa cum laude from Auburn University in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and a minor in Counseling. During her time at Auburn University, she participated in Warmhearted Individuals for Nurturing Great Success (WINGS), where she was a volunteer helping students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Hannah received the Disability Advocacy Certificate through this program. As an undergraduate, Hannah also volunteered as a crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line. She researched PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors in Auburn’s Vet School Pathobiology Lab and presented her work at Auburn University’s Student Research Symposium. She also interned at Wellstone Behavioral Health and collaborated with an on-site case manager to coordinate care for residents with psychiatric/neurodevelopmental disabilities.

After graduation, Hannah worked as an intern at Clearview Cancer Institute. Her responsibilities included collecting patient information, creating online pedigrees, and placing patients’ orders. These opportunities confirmed her passion for genetic counseling. In her free time, Hannah loves to read and play tennis.

Mahnoor Asif

Mahnoor is originally from Pembroke Pines, FL. She graduated with Honors from Nova Southeastern University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Psychology. She then went on to pursue a Master of Science in Biological Sciences, and discovered her passion for teaching through working as a TA for Biology I Lab. The desire to be involved in a busy genetics clinic inspired a move to Birmingham, AL to work as a Genetic Counselor Assistant at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Here, she helped place clinical test orders, disclose negative test results, and oversaw a team of clinical GCA’s. This opportunity provided her with many patient-facing experiences, which fueled her dedication to the field of genetic counseling.

While working as a GCA, Mahnoor also pursued a Graduate Certificate in Industry Genetics and Genomics at UAB. The coursework in variant interpretation provided valuable insight into the complexities of genetic test reports. While working, she volunteered as a Rape Response Advocate and was selected for a poster presentation at the 2023 Emory Medical Genetics Student Symposium. In her free time, Mahnoor enjoys taking care of her bonsai tree, Planty. She also practices her calligraphy and is improving her embroidery skills.

Mary Scott Hodgin

Mary Scott is from Birmingham, Alabama. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Alabama in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. She also earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2022. Mary Scott first learned about the field of genetic counseling as an undergraduate while producing a documentary film about a family tested for the BRCA gene. During this time, she also worked with children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

After graduating, Mary Scott worked as the health and science journalist for WBHM, the local NPR station in Birmingham, reporting on the impact of precision medicine and statewide genomic testing initiatives. She also volunteered with UAB’s Neurofibromatosis Clinic, helping to produce interactive patient education materials. After nearly six years in journalism, Mary Scott decided to pursue a career in genetic counseling, merging her interests in education, communication and science. Outside of work, Mary Scott enjoys spending time outside, traveling and cooking. She is fluent in Spanish and has previously lived in Madrid, Spain.

Resh Meck

Resh is from Tallahassee, Florida. She graduated magna cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. During her time at Florida State, she was involved in an ecological research laboratory that studied negative frequency-dependent selection in Trinidadian guppies. Outside of the classroom, she volunteered as a crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line and worked as a patient care assistant at a local hospital.

During her gap year, she moved to Gainesville and worked as a genetic counseling assistant for the University of Florida Pediatric Genetics and Metabolism Clinic. As an assistant, she supported five genetic counselors and three metabolic dietitians in the management of pediatric patients with metabolic and other inherited disorders. She also spent her gap year volunteering as a student ambassador for the United Multiple Sulfatase Foundation (UMSDF), with the goal of advocating for children and families who are affected by MSD, a rare inborn error of metabolism. In her free time, Resh enjoys drawing, listening to music, and spending time outdoors.

Sandra DeMaria

Sandra is from Madison, Alabama. She graduated summa cum laude from UAB in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Genomic Sciences. She also received a Master of Science in Multidisciplinary Biomedical Sciences in May 2022. Throughout undergrad, Sandra worked at her university as an inaugural member of the Peer Wellness Program where she provided outreach to first-year students. She also worked as a first-year honors resident assistant where she guided students through challenges specifically during the pandemic. She also fostered her passion for aiding others by becoming a certified peer educator, a biology learning assistant, and a peer mentor for the Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master's Program.

After graduation, Sandra worked at Advancing Sight Network where she approved ocular transplants for the state of Alabama by evaluating family interviews and all pertinent medical information to determine donor eligibility. This invaluable opportunity taught her about the intricacies of medical systems and individual medical histories as she worked to uphold the final wishes of donor families. Her experience helped her reinforce her drive to provide the same level of advocacy in the genetic counseling field. In her free time, Sandra enjoys reading and trying new recipes.

Mary James Bridges

Mary James Bridges is originally from Auburn, Alabama. She graduated summa cum laude with University Honors from The University of Alabama, earning a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology with a minor in Global Health. Her undergraduate research on genetic polymorphisms in fish modeling autism spectrum disorder, combined with her experience serving as Head Recruitment Counselor for the Alabama Panhellenic Association, cemented her passion for science and teaching. These passions lead her to pursue the field of genetic counseling. She also served on the executive council for the Alabama Student Genetics Association, which served to educate her peers on current events and career opportunities related to genetics.

Following graduation, she moved to Birmingham, Alabama to work as a genetic counseling assistant at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. While in this role, she actively participated in pediatric, cancer, adult, and specialty clinics, such as those for metabolic disorders and Neurofibromatosis. Her responsibilities included placing clinical test orders, triaging referrals, and assisting with sample collection. This opportunity also provided a plethora of hands-on experience with patients, solidifying her commitment to the profession. Outside of work, Mary James enjoys travelling and scrapbooking her adventures!

Maddie Buhl

Maddie Buhl is from Colleyville, Texas. She graduated from the University of Alabama in May 2025 with both a bachelor's and master's degree in biological sciences with a minor in global health. During her time at UA, Maddie served as the lab manager for a research group investigating the genetic basis of aging in fruit flies, which provided her the opportunity to present at regional, national, and international conferences. Additionally, she served as the president of Beta Beta Beta biology honor society, which created community for students studying biology. Maddie was actively involved in student support programs, working as a peer advisor in the Capstone Center for Student Success and mentoring out-of-state students through the UA First office. Beyond campus, she volunteered as a front office aide at Good Samaritan Clinic, assisting uninsured individuals in West Alabama. In her free time, Maddie enjoys reading and practicing yoga.

Carley Chin

Carley Chinn is from Roswell, Georgia. She graduated from the University of Georgia in May of 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and a minor in Biology. As an undergraduate, she volunteered at the University Cancer and Blood Center in Athens, GA, where she supported cancer patients as a genetic counseling assistant. In this role, she documented family histories, coordinated appointments, and tracked genetic test results, gaining valuable exposure to a wide range of hereditary cancer syndromes.

Carley also spent a summer as a Student Instruction and Behavior Assistant at Pattison’s Academy, where she provided one-on-one support to students with genetic conditions and disabilities. There she focused on helping students develop life skills and achieve personal goals, while collaborating with a healthcare team to meet daily medical and behavioral needs. Together, these experiences deepened her passion for genetic knowledge, precision medicine, and patient-centered care, and prepared her well for a career in genetic counseling. In her free time, Carley enjoys playing pickleball, visiting friends, baking, and spending time with her cat, Pickles.

Gabi Fitzjarrell

Gabi Fitzjarrell is from Aurora, Colorado. She graduated magna cum laude from Iowa State University in December 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics. During her undergraduate career, she took part in a Cancer Research Fellowship through The University of Colorado studying how CAR-T cell therapy can be used in the treatment of melanoma and shadowed a genetic counselor through UCHealth. After graduating, Gabi completed a genetic counseling assistant training program through Johns Hopkins University and has been working as an administrative assistant and receptionist at a private family practice in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. In her free time, she volunteers as a crisis counselor at the Crisis Text Line. These opportunities and exceptional experiences confirmed her passion in pursuing a career in genetic counseling which led her to applying to UAB. Outside of work and school, Gabi enjoys baking or cooking new things and spending time with friends and family.

Jared Murray

Jared is from Georgetown, IN. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Indiana University Southeast. Following his graduation in 2023, Jared joined The Cancer Prevention and Genetics Clinic at Community Health Network in Indianapolis, IN, as a genetic counseling assistant. Outside of the clinical and clerical duties involved with supporting the team of five oncology genetic counseling, Jared offered administrative support for the clinic’s Young Adult Social Support group, a support group designed for young adults with a current or previous history of cancer, and led the team of genetic counseling assistants in the clinic’s ongoing efforts increase access to sample collection for genetic counseling patients across the network.

In addition to his degree in biology, Jared holds a Bachelor Degree in Cello Performance from the University of Louisville, and continues to maintain an active schedule of teaching, freelancing, and performing throughout Kentuckiana. Across both disciplines, Jared has demonstrated a passion for teaching, mentoring, collaboration, and leadership, all of which being aspects that drew him to the profession of genetic counseling. In his free time, Jared enjoys cooking and baking, gaming, riding Peloton, and spending time with his family and friends.

Caroline Nelson

Caroline Nelson is from Spanish Fort, AL and attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She graduated summa cum laude with high distinguished honors in 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Genomic Sciences and minors in German and STEM Education. During undergrad, Caroline spent a summer working in college ministry in Germany as well as a semester student-teaching ninth grade biology at a local high school, which allowed her to practice teaching to students of incredibly diverse backgrounds. Caroline also worked as a Supplemental Instructor for three years, creating additional instructional materials and leading peer tutoring sessions for UAB’s Intro to Genetics class.

During that same time, she volunteered with the Civitan Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research Project where she assisted with diagnostic evaluations, administered the BOT-2 motor proficiency assessment, performed literature reviews for multiple studies, and befriended many children with neurodevelopmental differences and their families. She was also heavily involved in her sorority and served on UAB’s Panhellenic Executive Board for a year. When she isn’t busy studying, Caroline loves to read, explore Birmingham’s many parks, try new recipes, and spend time with her friends and cats.

Patti Anne Smith

Patti Anne Smith is from Moulton, Alabama. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Alabama in May of 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and minor in Social Innovation and Leadership. As an undergraduate, Patti Anne worked for UA as a biology tutor for student-athletes, served as a volunteer crisis counselor with Crisis Text Line, and volunteered with service organizations addressing needs like food insecurity and health literacy. She was also a member of the Dr. Robert E. Witt University Fellows program—a cohort-based Honors program specializing in community engagement and social impact.

As a student, Patti Anne also spent time working as an undergraduate researcher studying the effects of early-life environmental complexity on learning and problem-solving abilities. During her last semester of college, she completed her coursework asynchronously and accepted a genetic counseling assistant position at the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine on the HudsonAlpha campus in Huntsville, Alabama. In this role, she had the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of patients and immerse herself in the field of genetic counseling. In her free time, Patti Anne enjoys spending time at Smith Lake and going to concerts with friends and family.

Trevor Turner

Trevor Turner is from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Genomic Sciences and a Master of Science in Multidisciplinary Biomedical Sciences, with a concentration in genetics and genomic sciences. During his undergraduate years, Trevor served as an honors Resident Assistant in both freshman and upperclassman residence halls. This role sparked his passion for mental health advocacy and helped him develop strong leadership and crisis management skills.

Trevor also volunteered at the 1917 Clinic, where he worked directly with patients living with HIV, providing education on diagnosis and treatment, assisting with health technology, and promoting sexual health in a compassionate and accessible way. He served as president of the Student Association of Genetic Counseling and founded the Community Health Initiatives Association, which helped connect fellow students with shadowing and volunteer opportunities in Birmingham. Outside the classroom, Trevor enjoys discovering new coffee shops, exploring the local food scene, and binge-watching the latest murder mystery series.