麻花视频

Thomas Roche (PharmD/MSPGx ’28)

Thomas is currently a graduate student enrolled in the dual-degree Doctor of Pharmacy/MSPGx program. He is in his PY2 year for the Doctor of Pharmacy program, and in his first semester of the MSPGx program.

Here’s what Thomas had to say about the MSPGx program: “I knew before I had officially decided to go to college at WNE that I wanted to incorporate the study of genetics and drugs into my Pharmacy School education. I had the opportunity to shadow a WNE Pharmacy School student my senior year of high school and sat in on a genetics lecture. I thought it was unbelievably fascinating how our genetics and the medications we use could interact with each other. No other Pharmacy Schools in New England or the Northeastern US offer this dual degree program, so coming here to pursue such a cutting-edge field was a no brainer. The professors are fantastic, the program is both engaging and rewarding, and the opportunity to earn a degree that puts you ahead of the curve while still graduating with the rest of my Pharmacy School class is an opportunity you will find nowhere else. I recommend it to anyone who is up to the challenge and wants to be a part of the forefront of drug and genetic science.” 

Thomas Taylor (MSPGx ’26)

Thomas (second from left in photo) is currently a graduate student enrolled in the MSPGx program.

Here’s what Thomas had to say about the MSPGx program: “My experience in the MSPGx program has been very positive. One of the things I value most is the strong sense of collaboration among my classmates (shown in photo from left to right, Thomas Roche, Nana Budu, Alison LaForest, and Miguel Almirall). We all have a great collaborative relationship and work together closely in understanding our courses. The professors are another major highlight. They are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely invested in our growth. It’s clear that they want us to understand the material and apply it meaningfully, not just memorize it. They’re always willing to take extra time to explain concepts or offer guidance on our future careers.

For anyone considering the MSPGx program, I would say it’s an environment where you’ll not only gain an excellent education in pharmacogenomics but also build lasting professional and personal connections. The combination of supportive classmates and dedicated faculty makes it a truly worthwhile experience.”

Kaitlyn Labitan (Neuroscience/MSPGx ’25)

Kaitlyn is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuroscience at Teachers College, Columbia University. This research-intensive program is designed to prepare students for doctoral study by giving students the opportunity to gain advanced training in research methodology. She is presently involved in a neuroscience research lab examining resilience and executive functioning, where she hopes to (eventually) integrate a genetic component to explore how genetic predispositions contribute to neuropsychological conditions. 

Here’s what Kaitlyn had to say about the MSPGx program: “The MSPGx program was an unexpected opportunity in my academic journey. At the time, I was a third-year research-intensive Neuroscience student but still hadn't determined a research project idea for my senior thesis. The dual-degree (BS/MS) program offered a chance to explore new and engaging coursework, ultimately proving to be far more challenging (and rewarding) than I anticipated. Although I initially wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy or apply what I learned to my future, I now find myself missing genetics work. Since completing the program, I’ve been actively seeking ways to integrate pharmacogenomic and genetic perspectives into my current research at Teachers College.”

Ellie Nichols (Neuroscience/MSPGx ’25) 

Ellie is currently working at Labcorp in Shelton, CT as a Cytogenetic Technologist Trainee. Her work includes culturing cells from blood, lymph node and bone marrow samples, and prepping and analyzing Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) specimens. 

Here’s what Ellie had to say about the MSPGx program: “The MSPGx program at 麻花视频 University provided me with an exemplary education. Its fast-paced nature allowed me to learn a plethora of information in a short period of time. In my experience, the professors genuinely cared about the success and well-being of each and every student. I graduated from 麻花视频 University with a strong understanding of pharmacogenomics and its real-world applicability. Students who are willing to actively engage in their courses and put in the necessary work will find success within the program. Although this is a newer program, feedback from students is encouraged and meaningful improvements are made each year. For prospective students, I recommend reading through each course description and considering how the knowledge can be applied post-graduation.”

Brian Georges (PharmD/MSPGx ’25) 

Brian (on the left in the photo) is currently a PGY1 Acute Care Pharmacy Resident at the Beth Israel Lahey Health Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington, MA. 

Here’s what Brian had to say about the MSPGx program: “Completing the Master’s in Pharmacogenomics program was a transformative experience that has shaped the pharmacist I am today. This program positioned me to be a pioneer in the changing world of pharmacy where medicine is no longer one size fits all and personalized care guides every clinical decision.

The education I received was exceptional. Learning under experts like Dr. Kinney, Dr. Whitman, Dr. Anderson, and Dean Pesaturo gave me both the research foundation and clinical perspective to meaningfully integrate pharmacogenomics into patient care. What stood out most, though, were the moments shared with my classmates, especially during extra classes and summer sessions and the memories of my late friend, Chris Williams (on the right in the photo, who was also a dual degree student). I hope that his passion for integrating pharmacogenomics and oncology continues to inspire others as it has inspired me.

The hands-on rotations taught me to see every patient as an individual, to think critically, and to advocate for the advancement of personalized medicine in all areas of practice. For anyone considering the MSPGx program, know that it will challenge you, inspire you, and ultimately prepare you to be at the forefront of the future of pharmacy.”

Jacob Griggs (PharmD/MSPGx ’25)

Jacob is currently a Nuclear Pharmacist and Representative for Quality at Jubilant Radiopharma in Canton, MA.

Here’s what Jacob had to say about the MSPGx program: “My experiences within the program are nothing but fond memories. I hope to utilize my degree more in the future and make my way into Oncology and utilize all of my skills in both PGx and Nuclear. Upon my reflection, my time devoted to PGx in the program made my time in the PharmD easier due to my added knowledge about genetics and gene drug interactions.”