28 Aug 2026
AMEND USA Welcomes Genetic Counseling Student Alison Merket
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AMEND USA is pleased to welcome this semester’s genetic counseling fieldwork rotation student, Alison Merket, of the University of Texas Southwestern. Below, Alison shares a little bit about herself, her educational background, and her hopes regarding her time with AMEND USA.
Originally from Dallas, Texas, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from Texas A&M University in College Station. After graduating in 2022, I worked as a research assistant at a private research company, where I developed a strong interest in research. I then moved to Houston, where I most recently worked as a Genetic Counseling Assistant supporting neurology patients, particularly individuals and families affected by rare forms of epilepsy. This experience deepened my passion for advocating for families navigating the complexities and uncertainties that often come with rare diseases.
I am currently a genetic counseling graduate student at UT Southwestern. I was drawn to genetic counseling because of the unique opportunity to combine genetics with meaningful psychosocial support, helping individuals navigate both the medical and emotional aspects of their healthcare journeys. Throughout my training and previous experiences, I have especially valued seeing how research, patient advocacy, and genetic counseling can come together to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.
I am so excited to join the AMEND USA community for a six-week rotation. I look forward to learning more about the experiences of individuals and families living with MEN, gaining a deeper understanding of the unique needs of this community, and contributing to AMEND USA’s mission in any way I can. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from this community and to grow both personally and professionally through this experience.
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Alison Merket