Kathryn Semerau, MS

Kathryn Semerau was born and raised in San Diego, CA and graduated from Brandeis University with a double major in biology and philosophy. As an undergraduate, Kathryn tutored and mentored students on the autism spectrum and volunteered as a crisis counselor. Her efforts on behalf of the disability community were supported by a Ruderman Fellowship, which she used to help students get jobs and access disability insurance. Kathryn continued her advocacy work developing and promoting inclusive pedagogy, first as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Sierra Leone, then as a science teacher in Los Angeles. Kathryn is excited to merge her passion for teaching, ethics, and advocacy in the field of genetic counseling. Her professional goals include expanding access to genetic counseling and increasing understanding of rare diseases. Personally, Kathryn wants to learn how to spike a volleyball—height notwithstanding—as well as remain an avid camper, meditator, and soccer player.

Master's Research (Capstone) Project: Factors associated with genetic counseling students’ comfort working with people with disabilities