Job Search and Interview Tips

Congratulations to our second year students who have all accepted work positions over the past couple of months! As the Class of 2016 prepares to graduate and start their new jobs, they would like to share some tips regarding the job search process, and interviewing:

"Don’t be afraid to expand the geographical area of where you are applying, you never know where you might find the perfect fit!” -Kristin

“Take advantage of the alumni reunion party at the NSGC AEC. You never know who has a job opening, or who may know of someone with a job opening. Make those connections and maintain them.” -Erin

"It’s important to think critically about what it is you want out of a position. If you go into the interview process understanding your own priorities, it will make finding a position that fits so much easier for you and your future employer.” -Nikki




"Do a little research into the institution or the hot topics of the sub-specialty for which you are interviewing and come up with some thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer. It never fails to impress!” -Amy K.



"Pay attention to the interview process itself and how smoothly (or not smoothly) everything is organized. It’s a good way to get a glimpse into how that hospital/organization runs in general. Listen to the red flags if they are there!” -Laura

“Keep yourself open to every opportunity that comes along and advocate for yourself! You never know where you might find the perfect job fit – it could be at a conference, alumni meeting, through a job posting, or over brunch.” -Kerrianne





"Before starting the interview process, think about how your graduate school experience makes you unique compared to not only other new grads, but to experienced GCs as well. Be prepared to give specific examples. Highlight your readiness to be an independent genetic counselor by discussing the number of cases you’ve seen and the responsibilities you’ve taken on in sessions.” -Bess

"Ask current GCs what they wish they had known before working at that institution, and ask about what their work/life balance looks like.” -Kelly

"Know what your strengths are and what sets you apart from others. Don’t downplay them because you can use them to prove your worth when negotiating for better pay.” -Tricia

"Practice interview questions with a friend or classmate. Be prepared to reflect on a difficult case you saw as a student, and how you were able to learn from that experience and improve for future cases.” -Amy D.

"You should go into the job search process knowing that every hospital/company/department will be on a little bit of a different timeline. Some will contact you right away after you apply, while others may go through a longer HR process first. Some will ask you for a phone or skype interview before considering flying you out for an in person interview, while others will ask you to come right away. This may put you on a different timeline than your classmates who are also searching for jobs. That is completely normal and expected, so do not worry if it takes you a little longer to find a job!” -Becca