ABGC Spotlight: Sophia Ceulemans, MS, CGC, NSGC Volunteer
ABGC: Can you describe your current role? What do you enjoy most about this position?
Sophia Ceulemans, MS, CGC (SC): In my current role as a pediatric clinical genetic counselor, I meet one-on-one with people and their families within neurology and general genetics departments. I also staff several multidisciplinary clinics such as the neuromuscular clinic, epilepsy clinic, and tuberous sclerosis clinic. I find my autonomous role to be very rewarding, and it is an honor to talk with people about their genes and their feelings about them. I also supervise GC students, lecture on a variety of topics, and interact with trainees across specialties.
What I enjoy most about this position is the opportunity to work closely with both the clinical teams and the families we serve, making genetic information more accessible. The multidisciplinary nature of my role allows me to collaborate with experts in genetics and neurology, while also making a tangible difference in the lives of people and their families. The most rewarding aspect is knowing that my work helps to guide families through their medical journey, providing them with the information and support they need to make informed decisions.
ABGC: Can you share about a time you have been challenged in your career? How did you overcome it?
SC: A challenging moment was when I was working on a particularly complex case involving a child with multiple, severe neurological issues. Despite extensive genetic testing, we struggled to find a clear diagnosis, which was incredibly frustrating for both the medical team and the family. I overcame this challenge by consulting with experts and eventually leading a collaborative effort that involved multiple specialists. This process not only led to a diagnosis but also reinforced the importance of perseverance and teamwork in our field, including a poster at the American Society of Human Genetics that further contributed to our growing body of knowledge. It was a reminder that while genetic counseling often deals with uncertainty, our commitment to thoroughness and collaboration can lead to meaningful outcomes.
ABGC: Can you share about your experience volunteering with NSGC?
SC: Volunteering with NSGC has been an incredibly fulfilling part of my career. Serving on the Annual Conference Program Committee and eventually stepping into leadership roles, like vice chair and chair, has allowed me to contribute to the professional growth of our field. I’ve had the opportunity to shape the content of our conferences, ensuring that they reflect the latest advances in genetic counseling and address the needs of our diverse membership. I have not always felt a sense of belonging at our conferences, and it has been enlightening and also invigorating to be on the other side of planning. This experience has deepened my appreciation for the collaborative nature of our profession and the importance of continued education and networking. It has been a lot of fun!
ABGC: What advice do you have for someone beginning their genetic counseling journey?
SC: My advice for someone starting their genetic counseling journey is to remain curious and foster a practice of self-reflection. Genetic counseling is a dynamic field, and it’s essential to stay engaged with both the scientific advancements and the human aspects of the work. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out mentors and get involved in professional organizations like NSGC, though there are many other organizations that do meaningful work as well, including ones that may be local to you. These connections will not only help you grow as a professional but will also provide you with a supportive community that can offer guidance and encouragement.
ABGC: What do you enjoy doing in your free time, outside of genetic counseling?
SC: Outside of my professional life, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, whether it’s hiking in the local mountains or enjoying the beach. I am grateful for strong friendships inside and outside of my genetic counseling community, as it keeps me grounded and feeling supported. Fermenting foods, tending to composting worms, and watching terrible television are some of my current interests.