Junior genetics major Gwen Schindel’s grandfather suffered from Huntington’s Disease, a rare, genetic neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain and causes uncontrolled movements, cognitive decline and psychiatric symptoms.
Gwen’s mother had a 50/50 chance of receiving this gene and had to undergo extensive research to ensure that she did not have it. Fortunately, for Gwen and her mother, she did not carry the gene.
“However, I saw first-hand what this awful disease can do to a patient as well as their families. This inspired me to study Genetics so I can hopefully, in some way, help patients and families who are affected by genetic diseases/disorders!”
Additionally, during her adolescences Gwen was exposed to the field of genetics through her involvement in showing dairy cows. Her grandparents owned a dairy farm, and she began showing at 10 years old and continued for eight years.
“In the dairy show world, farmers will look at the genetics of their cows and breed them specifically to make an ideal cow – one that can produce a lot of milk and one that will catch the eye of a judge.”
Now that she is on campus studying what she loves, Gwen is so excited and grateful to be here, saying that Clemson was just the perfect fit for her.
“I have met so many amazing professors, faculty, and peers who have all guided me through these past two years at Clemson.”
Aside from academics, on campus Gwen is involved in the Clemson Genetics and Biochemistry Club, Clemson’s Fellowship of Christian Atheletes (FCA) and Clemson Hope, specifically in Write for Hope where Clemson students write letters to elementary age students in Title 1 schools.
After graduating, Gwen plans to pursue a master’s degree in genetic counseling or physician assistant studies.
“Our department as a whole has made such an amazing impact on the world already and I cannot wait to see what it does in the future! I know that I will be set up for success upon graduation because of this program.”
Gwen is originally from Ohio, is a biological sciences minor and enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, reading and watching football.
