Samantha Pokorny

I’m currently pursuing a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling and a Master of Public Health in Public Health Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh, where I’m exploring how genetic testing and counseling intersect with public health. I’m passionate about making complex genetic information accessible and supportive for patients, and I’ve gained hands-on experience through various internships in pediatric, prenatal, cancer, and specialty genetic counseling.

In my current role as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at Allegheny Health Network, I help facilitate communication between patients, genetic counselors, and providers, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone. I also offer emotional support and transparency when discussing complex results, such as variants of uncertain significance, to help patients feel informed and supported throughout their genetic testing journey.

I’ve also had the opportunity to work with diverse patient populations, which has deepened my interest in precision medicine and the ways genetics influences health outcomes. I’m especially interested in cancer genetics, public health genetics, and improving accessibility to genetic counseling services.

Outside of my academic and clinical work, I’ve taken on leadership roles, including directing a pre-health division and mentoring students, which has further sharpened my communication and organization skills.

I’m excited about continuing my work in genetics, where I can integrate my clinical experiences with my passion for public health, and contribute to helping patients navigate the complexities of genetic information.

I have extensive experience in genetic counseling through various internships and roles. Currently, I work as a Genetic Counseling Assistant at Allegheny Health Network, where I assist in patient communication, scheduling, and emotional support, while also clarifying complex genetic testing results. I’m also interning at UPMC Primary Care Clinic, providing counseling for pharmacogenomics and adult-related conditions, and have observed multiple specialty clinics, including pediatric oncology and ophthalmology genetics.

Previously, I completed internships at UPMC Children’s Hospital, UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital, and other UPMC hospitals, where I counseled patients on a variety of conditions, including hereditary cancers, prenatal screenings, and genetic testing for various disorders. I also utilized genetic software to communicate risks to patients and supported long-term care, including coordinating test requisition and returning results.

My experience has given me a well-rounded foundation in genetic counseling across multiple specialties, from pediatric to prenatal to cancer genetics, and has allowed me to develop strong communication and patient care skills.

I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling and a Master of Public Health in Public Health Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh, both expected to be completed in May 2025. My thesis and essay focus on improving the referral rates and accuracy of genetic testing for hereditary cancers at Allegheny Health Network.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Genetics, Magna Cum Laude, from the University of Georgia, where I also completed a minor in Biology. My undergraduate research focused on fine mapping genes in pearl millet. Additionally, I earned certificates in Spanish for Successful Communication in Healthcare Settings and Global Education and Leadership during my time at the University of Georgia.