Megan Howard grew up in the Chicagoland area and graduated from Villanova University in May of 2022. She studied Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience with minors in Psychology and Sustainability Studies. During undergrad, she became involved in a research lab based in the Galápagos Islands. Her work in this lab focused on developing a research protocol for monitoring climate change in the intertidal zone in the Galápagos Islands. The lab utilized a community science approach which encouraged local members of the community to participate in research addressing issues of ecology, conservation, and education. Through this experience, Megan recognized the importance of empowering people through education. She believes genetic counseling intertwines her passion for empowerment through education and her love of genetics.
During college, Megan volunteered with Villanova Special Olympics, the largest student-run Special Olympics in the world. She also spent time volunteering in a hospice center providing emotional support to patients and their loved ones at the end stages of life. Additionally, she worked remotely to support people in crisis through Crisis Text Line. Megan was also captain of the Villanova Cheerleading team and traveled around the country to support the football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball teams.
During her free time, Megan enjoys hiking, biking, reading, doing the New York Times mini crossword, and watching Villanova basketball. She is excited to explore Atlanta’s food scene and the many hiking trails. She is thrilled to be a part of Emory GCTP and is happy to answer prospective student questions!