Delving into the realm of consulting, starting the year with an offer of a 6-month internship as a learning life science consultant marked my first step in preparing me for my career. During those years of academic studies pursuing science, I was captivated by the beauty of knowledge, the excitement of research, and the thrill of solving new problems. While I enjoyed research, I discovered a deeper interest in analyzing issues and interpreting solutions rather than conducting experiments. Additionally, I found joy in interpersonal interactions and connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds through my experience while studying abroad and extracurricular activities.
Eager to step out of my academic comfort zone, I sought a job that intertwined science with exposure to various fields and opportunities for connecting with people and leading players in the life sciences industry. Consultancy soon became the perfect fit, aligning with my career aspirations and serving as a crucial stepping stone for my professional development. Over the following months, I was on a transformative journey through this unfamiliar landscape.
In the first two months, I immersed myself in intensive training sessions to lay a solid foundation for my consultancy role. These sessions covered essential topics, including GxP, data integrity, ITIL, risk-based validation, and computer system validation (CSV). Additionally, I attended webinars to expand my knowledge and deepen my understanding of these fundamental concepts.
Beyond technical training, my internship provided hands-on experience through professional projects. I participated in a project focused on regulatory and technical operation compliance, which helped me build a practical understanding of industry dynamics. It introduced me to new concepts and terminologies in the pharmaceutical industry—an entirely uncharted territory for me.
Taking charge of such an important project for the first time, I initially struggled to navigate the tasks and communicate effectively with stakeholders. The journey was not without its challenges, but I persevered, recognizing the potential for improvement. I gained experience in coordinating tasks and balancing multiple responsibilities. Additionally, I learned to tailor my communication style to different stakeholders, developing practical communication skills with colleagues and seniors.
Most interestingly, I realized how global perspectives and cultural awareness would come into play when working with local clients and stakeholders. I embraced a global perspective when collaborating with international colleagues and stakeholders while adapting communication strategies to fit the local work culture. This included utilizing appropriate honorifics and cultural norms in professional interactions. I now understand the cultural nuances that impact consultancy in the industry.
Throughout the internship, I gained valuable insights into consulting, particularly in the healthcare sector, focusing on the considerations of pharmaceutical industries. This experience has paved the way for developing essential professional skills required for a career in consultancy, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. This will further fuel my commitment to continuous learning and improvement as I advance my career trajectory.
Author: Tra Tran
