Graduate Profile: Sam Dayman Master of Genetic Counselling, Class of 2024 Dean's Honours Award (Faculty Values) Recipient
A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
Sam Dayman's path to becoming a genetic counsellor is a testament to the power of following one's passion, no matter where life's journey begins. As a recent graduate of our Master of Genetic Counselling program and the recipient of the prestigious Dean's Honours Award for Faculty Values, Sam's story is one of determination, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
From Business to Bioscience
Sam's professional life began in a family business, managing property and investments. However, her true passion lay in genetic health. Demonstrating remarkable dedication, Sam embarked on a part-time Bachelor of Biomedical degree, completing it over eight years while balancing work and personal commitments.
"I knew I had a passion for genetic health," Sam reflects, "but I didn't know exactly what form it would take – whether clinical or something else. Through the Master's program, I was able to marry my interest in working with and helping people with genetic science, bringing together all of my interests."
A Supportive Learning Environment
Upon entering our postgraduate programs, first in the Master of Genomics and Health and then transferring to the Master of Genetic Counselling, Sam found a nurturing academic environment that accommodated her unique situation as a mature student.
"The cohort experience was really lovely," Sam shares. "As a student coming back into study, I was supported by staff who understood my competing demands. They were always available and willing to help."
Hands-On Experience and Community Engagement
A highlight of Sam's academic journey was the community placements, where she had the opportunity to meet individuals living with genetic conditions, their families, support networks, and healthcare professionals. These experiences provided invaluable insights into the real-world impact of genetic counselling.
The clinical placements further enhanced Sam's learning, allowing her to apply classroom knowledge in supervised settings. "Taking the skills we learned in class and trying them out under the guidance of experienced genetic counsellors was incredibly valuable,".
Overcoming Challenges Through Peer Support
Sam's final year presented significant challenges, including increased carer responsibilities. However, the strong bonds formed within her cohort proved crucial to her success.
"The people I graduated with were critical to my completion," Sam emphasizes. "They were supportive, honest, and genuine, creating an environment where it was okay to say, 'I'm finding this difficult.' That shared experience was invaluable."
A Bright Future in Genetic Counselling
Sam's hard work and perseverance have paid off. She is now working as a clinical assistant at the Victorian Clinical Genetics Service in the reproductive genetic counselling team and has also joined the genetics team at Austin Health.
Her receipt of the Dean's Honours Award for Faculty Values is a testament to her embodiment of the program's core principles: collaboration and teamwork, compassion, respect, integrity, and accountability.
As Sam embarks on her clinical career, we are confident that she will continue to make significant contributions to the field of genetic counselling, supporting many individuals and families facing genetic health challenges.
We are immensely proud of Sam's achievements and look forward to seeing the positive impact she will undoubtedly make in her new role as a genetic counsellor.