Lessons from Freelancing, Lighting Design to Genetic Counseling

Abstract

Theatrical lighting design and genetic counseling may seem like antipodal career choices. The former was chosen from a belief in the dynamism of the theatrical experience, as well as love of the actual work. As I grew older, the powerful personal experiences of a life encompassing miscarriages, the birth of a child with a genetic disorder, and breast cancer profoundly directed my choice of a new career; one that I also love. Clearly, the day-to-day work is very different. However, people in both professions strive to create a transformative space for their respective public. Rather than being left behind, lessons learned by working as a freelancer have served as a source of inspiration as I have matured into my new career. Three specific strategies, supported by literature on career models, have been paramount. First, keeping an eye on the big picture encourages awareness of where the field of genetics and the genetic counseling job market are headed. That awareness leads to the advocacy necessary to achieve the outcomes genetic counselors want. Second, striving for continual personal growth keeps genetic counselors engaged and personally ready for professional changes. Third, networking provides the connections to make clinical and advocacy efforts successful, in addition to essential social support.