“Bridging the Gap” at the Student Career Workshop

As one of almost 20 presenters at the Chapter’s Student Career Workshop on January 27, I had the pleasure of sharing my thoughts with over 100 area students preparing for careers in the life sciences and STEM fields. This annual event is hosted by the Chapter’s Student Development Committee to help students hone the skills they need to land internships, co-ops and full time job opportunities. This year was special, as attendance hit triple digits – a first for this event!

The topic of my presentation was “bridging the gap” or successfully navigating the transition from student to working, young professional. I described how professional societies like ISPE can help students before, during and after this critical transition and stressed just how important this help can be. In 2015, the Wall Street Journal estimated that less than 40 percent of college students are fully prepared for the workforce upon graduation. The silver lining? ISPE provides
industry-specific education, training and, most of all, opportunities to network and learn from peers and professionals already established in their careers – all of which can help students bridge the knowledge gap.

On a lighter note, at the end of my presentation I shared some personal advice inspired by the line “Well, how did I get here?” from the Talking Heads song “Once in a Lifetime.” I wanted to remind students that – while the days can be long and life can accelerate quickly – they shouldn’t forget to have fun, especially with their careers.

I was thrilled to be able to play a part in this annual Chapter event and provide guidance to students about their future in the life sciences industry. After all, not so long ago, I was in their shoes. Without ISPE and the connections I have made as a member of this outstanding organization, I would never have had this amazing opportunity.