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In the Spotlight: Rachel Schwiter ’15

The B.S. degree in psychology that Rachel Schwiter ’15 earned at Lycoming College helped launch her into a successful career as a genetic counselor at Geisinger. Though oftentimes challenging, she enjoys advocating for individuals who may be predisposed to certain diseases so that they can make choices that benefit their health.

Why did you choose to attend Lycoming College? 

At Lycoming, it was easy to see how I could continue pursuing my hobbies and extracurricular interests like playing the flute and tap dancing. In that regard, it felt like home. But, I also appreciated how students are encouraged to challenge themselves through a variety of coursework, leadership opportunities, and seeking out new activities. In addition, as salutatorian of my high school class, the scholarships offered were generous.

What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors, or activities while attending Lycoming College? 

I loved participating in the Christmas Candlelight Service as part of the woodwind quintet. I can easily recall the warm ambiance of Clarke Chapel during that service.

You are a genetic counselor at Geisinger. Please describe what this position entails, and what are some of the most rewarding and challenging aspects? 

As a genetic counselor, I am an advocate for individuals with rare diseases. Most of my work focuses on hereditary cancers, from evaluating someone’s likelihood of having inherited a predisposition to cancer to helping an individual and their biological relatives navigate their options to be proactive with their health if they have inherited increased cancer risk. My role as a genetic counselor is divided among the clinic, research, and academia, all of which combine my genomics expertise with communication and counseling skills to work with patients, colleagues, other medical providers, students, and researchers. Though conversations with patients on these heavy topics can be sometimes challenging, I am often inspired by seeing them become empowered with genomic information.

What are one or two of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from Lycoming in which your education played a role? 

Recently, I began a position as assistant program director in the Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program at Geisinger College of Health Sciences. Our first cohort matriculates in August 2025. Similar to what I’ve experienced at Lycoming, I strive to provide students with well-rounded training.

How has your time at Lycoming College inspired you to give back? 

I have been fortunate to have a few wonderful mentors during my education at Lycoming, through graduate school, and in my career. I always remain open to mentoring students — in big or small ways — because of the impact great mentorship has had on me.

 

In the Spotlight recognizes members of our alumni community who are doing great things that have been influenced by their time at Lycoming College. Alumni Spotlight submissions are used at the discretion of the College and may be included in the monthly eNews as space and time permit. To participate, submit an Alumni Spotlight questionnaire.