Our goal is to increase interest in professional opportunities in the genetics and genomics fields for underrepresented populations, including people of color, by being an active part of bridging the gap in diversity in the genetics/genomics medicine field and supporting students who are interested in, but who may not feel currently represented in the field. Eligible students must currently be sophomores or juniors in high school, residing in the United States, and identify as a member of one or more underrepresented populations based on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, country of origin, culture, language, religion, spiritual beliefs, health history, disability, financial hardship, and others. Students must be able to read and write in English and be able to submit their essay online (1000 word maximum limit).
1st, 2nd and 3rd awards of ($2500 ,$1000, $500, respectively) to go to the winning essays which are picked by our diverse essay review committee made up of both clinical genetic and genomic healthcare providers and non clinical employees of Genome Medical. Monetary prizes to be awarded in addition to a public congratulations and post of the winning essays/students on our social media. Finalists will be contacted directly and their personal and school information will be confirmed and a photo will be requested (optional) for the purposes of announcing the winners.