Meet our inspiring alumni
Meet Mariana Lauretta
From Biomedicine to Genetic Counselling
Mariana has built a unique career that combines research, genetics and patient care.
Drawn to the University of Melbourne’s world-class reputation and inspired by her mother, a UniMelb alumni, Mariana chose to major in Microbiology and Immunology, developing a strong interest in infectious diseases, healthcare and public health. She also embraced breadth subjects in Japanese and Fine Arts during her undergraduate studies, combining her love of languages with a passion for drawing and painting.
“Outside of work I love drawing and painting, so really enjoyed these subjects. I studied Japanese at high school, can speak conversationally and have been to Japan 3 times now.”
Mariana says the highlights of her degree were the opportunity to learn from leading academics, the kind and generous mentors and the friendship she made along the way.
I have a lovely core friend group from Biomed to this day (10+ years later!).
Beyond the classroom, Mariana was involved in the Biomedicine Students' Society and the Melbourne University Cheer and Dance (MUCD) Pom team.
I absolutely loved this extracurricular! It was a great way to meet students from other study areas, be involved in a team sport, health and exercise.
Following her undergraduate degree, Mariana completed a Master of Speech Pathology and later a Master of Genetic Counselling, both at the University of Melbourne. Her pathway was inspired by a desire to combine science with direct patient care and was shaped by research projects and mentors who continue to influence her career today.
Mariana now works in two roles. As a Research Associate in the University of Melbourne's Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, she contributes to research and genetic testing programs for children with severe motor speech disorders. She also works as an Associate Genetic Counsellor at The Royal Melbourne Hospital and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, supporting patients through genetic testing and results across a range of clinical specialties.
Looking ahead, she hopes to mentor the next generation of students and raise awareness of the growing role of genetics and genetic counselling within allied health.
Her advice to current students?
Everything happens for a reason. You never know when a past experience or connection is going to pop up again, so embrace every moment.