Why did you choose to attend the Master in Drug Development and Product Management (DDPM)?
I was attracted to the Master in DDPM for its comprehensive drug development and commercialization curriculum. I used to work for a pharma company but only knew a small part of drug development; therefore, I wanted to learn and understand the whole process. My other goal was to explore different career paths in the biotech/pharma industry, and I knew this program would provide me with that opportunity.
What skills and proficiencies did you gain from this program and how did it benefit your career?
The marketing and entrepreneurship/IP courses allowed me to apply the knowledge on the job immediately. I used the course materials to prep for my job interviews and received great feedback on my experience in this area. The group projects taught me to be collaborative, innovative, and adaptive, which is essential for a managerial position.
Can you describe networking experiences that were initiated by the program?
The networking opportunities that I got from the program were valuable. I got the chance to meet a VP of my previous company during one of the lectures. I connected with him in person, and he offered to create an internship for me and be my mentor.
What did you like best about the program?
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the program. The knowledge I gained was the most current information, which made me a competitive candidate in the workforce. In addition to the coursework, the guest lecturers and professors are experts and well connected in their fields, making the new program more credible.
If you could give an incoming DDPM student one piece of advice, what would it be?
I would suggest getting involved with professional organizations to expand your network. If you are looking for a new job or transition into a new field, it is best to be proactive and reach out to your academic and professional network to let them know your career goals.