Daria Antoszko

The University of Melbourne is an internationally acclaimed university.

As part of my masters, I am involved in a research monograph in which I can learn from leaders in my research interest. I am able to be involved in an international research project, Gene-STEPS, which looks at parental experiences of rapid genomic sequencing for children with young-onset epilepsy. This project allows me to collaborate with researchers in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, opening doors for my future job prospects.

I chose the Master of Genetic Counselling (MGC) course at the University of Melbourne as I believed it would provide me with the best education to inform my practice as a genetic counsellor. UniMelb’s MGC truly emphasises advocating for patients by having 120 hours dedicated to community placement. This course is also delivered fully in-person which suits my learning preferences; I am able to form closer relationships with my colleagues who I will likely work with in the future too.

Besides the research opportunities, I really enjoy the Principles of Counselling class I take where I learn the psychosocial skills of patient interaction. Learning how to understand someone’s emotions and demonstrate empathy while actively listening has been incredibly important.

I have not only developed my knowledge in genetics, counselling, quantitative and qualitative research, but also my understanding of current issues in the field of genetic counselling.

Through practicing my counselling skills in roleplays, I have experienced particular growth. Now, I can confidently reflect on different phrasing in order to improve my next patient interaction.

To become a genetic counsellor :)

2026 update: Daria is now working as a genetic counsellor in Canada.

I advise you to try any opportunity that presents itself to you. For instance, joining different student groups to gain that sense of community, or studying abroad for a placement or a semester if that is a possibility for yourself.