Hometown: Corpus Christi, Texas
Major: Genetics and Cell Biology, Psychology
Expected graduation: Fall 2026
Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, Catherine Hamisch is a double major in genetics and cell biology and psychology who will graduate in December 2026. She has been focused on a future in genetic counseling since middle school and is using her time at Washington State University and in the School of Molecular Biosciences to build the academic and experiential foundation she’ll need for graduate school and beyond.
What initially drew you to your major?
I’ve known I wanted to go into genetic counseling since middle school, and double majoring in genetics and psychology gives me the perfect foundation to succeed in grad school and beyond.
Who has been the most influential mentor or professor during your time at WSU?
My advisor, Blake Uphus, has actually been such a huge help to me through my time here. I’m what you could call high-maintenance, and he’s been really awesome in helping me navigate the major and all of my class requirements. I know that I can turn to him for help with any of my academic problems, and we can always work together to find a solution.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in a field within the College of Veterinary Medicine?
Take advantage of the diversity of the college! Your major classes are really fun, but taking classes in other departments can be really fun. One of my best class experiences at WSU was taking ANIM_SCI 350, reproductive physiology, with Dr. Martin Maquivar. It’s a class I took 100% on a whim and ended up having the time of my life!
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
In the spring, when all of the flowers are blooming and campus is so pretty! I love taking walks around campus and seeing all of the new flowers and plants I can find when the snow begins to melt.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I will be applying for graduate school in the fall, pursuing my master’s in genetic counseling. My classes in the School of Molecular Biosciences have given me such an excellent foundation for the career field –understanding the mechanisms that underlie genetic disease, as I’ve learned and am learning in classes with Dr. Haseltine, Dr. Shelden, and Dr. Hayashi, will help me better serve my future patients.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities have you enjoyed at WSU?
I’m really fortunate to be a manager for the amazing women’s swim team here on campus! I really enjoy being able to support the team and the coaches, and it is something I’m so delighted to continue to be a part of.
What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
I am a huge art history nerd! I was able to take ART 201 and 202 with Dr. Meredith last year, and though I’ve been unable to take more art classes on campus, I still love to read, watch and listen about art history in my free time! My favorite artist is probably a tie between Georgia O’Keefe and Gustav Klimt. I could talk about art history for hours!