Aspen Curtis
Aspiring Genetic Counselor
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About
I am a dedicated and motivated aspiring genetic counselor with a strong foundation in biotechnology, psychology, chemistry, and biology. As a soon-to-be graduate of Utah State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, I have cultivated a diverse skill set that merges laboratory expertise with compassionate patient interaction. My academic journey has equipped me with extensive knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and developmental biology, positioning me well for a role as a genetic counselor.
My hands-on experience in genetic research stems from my role as a lab technician in the Meyers Epigenetics Lab, where I have conducted genotyping, biochemical assays, and transgenic mouse colony management. Additionally, my internship at 25:2 Solutions Biotechnology LLC further developed my analytical skills through large-scale sample processing and protocol development. These experiences have honed my ability to conduct meticulous genetic analyses, problem-solve, and work collaboratively in research and clinical settings.
Beyond the lab, I have cultivated strong interpersonal skills through my volunteer work at Whispering Canyons, LLC, where I worked with troubled teen girls to build confidence and resilience through equine-assisted therapy. This experience, along with my internship at Alta View Internal Medicine, where I assisted in patient interactions, medical documentation, and vital sign collection, has strengthened my ability to communicate complex scientific concepts with empathy and clarity.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Experience
Lab Technician - Meyers Epigenetics Lab, USU, Logan, UT October 2021- Present
- Developed and performed a breeding program for a new strain of mouse.
- Ran several 10 and 16 week studies on this new strain of mouse included blood draws, glucose and pyruvate challenges, T-cell analysis, metabolic chambers, and basic care of mice.
- Performed dissections with high attention to detail on 150+ mice to harvest tissues for further testing.
- Ran all of the genotyping for the entire lab, and developed a more streamlined protocol.
- Coached students in the development of basic riding skills.
- Encouraged the development of the biomechanical relationship between rider and horse.
- Helped the riders to overcome the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of riding a horse.
- Worked with children, teenagers, young adults, adults, and mature adults of various levels and backgrounds.
- Organized records including: scans, patient information, medical order forms, diagnostic results, insurance, and communications between offices.
- Handled patient relations including: phone calls, setting up appointments, checking in/out, preparing forms and documents, and getting necessary information prepared for the physician.
- Established new technology solutions in the office: introduced and set up Zoom for virtual visits and texting reminders to patients.
- Worked with patients: taking and recording vitals, taking medication lists, performing glucose tests, and taking ECGs.
- Trained new employees coming into the organization.
- Participated in field work: starting and growing plants, taking plant samples, setting and working aquaponics, and organizing seeds.
- Shadowed the microbiology lab: learned how to culture various organisms.
- Primarily worked in the analytical chemistry department: studied amylose/amylopectin levels in various types of barley.
- Learned various lab techniques including the amylose/amylopectin assay, proper grinding techniques, and sample collection.
- Was given over 5000 samples to evaluate throughout the project.
- Developed and wrote a protocol for the study.
- Taught full time staff the lab methods.
- Worked in the microbiology quality assurance lab and performed assays on: milk quality, various types of bacterial counts, viral counts, and fungal counts.
- Performed pH testing on all the yogurt products coming off the line.
- Worked independently and/or with a team at times.
- Trained new employees on how to perform the lab tasks.
- Worked one-on-one with an olympic horse trainer.
- Developed exceptionally tidy habits.
- Assisted in running the farm: including upkeep, management, and discipline.
- Furthered my teaching and riding skills.
- Maintained a rigid and full schedule working over 120 hours per week.
Education
Bachelors of Science with an emphasis of Biotechnology Cumulative GPA: 3.64
Minors: Psychology, Chemistry, Biology
Utah State University (USU), Logan, UT May 2025
Associates of Science December 2018
Salt Lake Community College, Salt Lake City, UT
