Intern Review

At the beginning, it was mostly independent reading and notetaking to get myself familiar with the clinical knowledge. My supervisors also connected me with other professionals within the company who helped to provide guidance and feedback. Daily tasks included quick update to supervisors, discussing next steps, asking questions, doing research, using TriNetX / Excel / PowerPoint, and problem-solving. A large part required a proactive approach to make sure that I was meeting the objectives accurately and efficiently.

I had the chance to apply my independent research, scientific writing, and mathematics/statistics skills in a professional setting, which greatly benefits me as I hope to become a research scientist. I also gained more confidence in my communication skills, through numerous online meetings and two oral presentations. I was able to expand my interpersonal skills through working collaboratively with physicians and epidemiologists in the company.

I was given full responsibility and autonomy for the two tasks that I was assigned, which were meaningful in that they provided preliminary results and inititative for ongoing endothelin receptor antagonists drug development. While I continuously sought confirmation and approval for the things that I was unsure of, the suggestions that I made were always taken into account. I was also fortunate enough to be given co-authorship for the abstracts submitted to an international conference.

My supervisors were highly supportive and thorough with explanations so that I could gain a deeper understanding of each tasks, allowing me to acheive results to the best of my ability. There were many contacts available that I could reach out for guidance on specialist knowledge, and they always gave swift responses. Most of all, the atmosphere was inclusive and everyone was totally understanding and patience around the extra requirements for my hearing disability.

Me and another intern were invited to join the wider project update meeting with about 100 employees and a few key speakers, which covered the recent advances and emerging problems in CVRM medicine/diseases. The general atmosphere was highly motivational, ambitious and inclusive. Even as a remote intern, I felt a sense of belonging and pride working at AZ. My line managers were friendly and approachable, and I did not feel pressurised at all.

I thoroughly enjoyed my internship and would recommend it to anyone in Life Science disciplines. I could feel a strong social responsibility and significance with the work that I was doing, and I would definitely consider a career at AZ.

Yes

Look out for their advertisement on Student Ladder or Bright Network. Do some research about the company before your interview, prepare yourself in mock interviews, and don't be nervous! Next, reach out to your supervisor about the assignment and try to familiarise yourself with the topic before the internship commences. I had no prior experience in pharmacology/ pharmacy but I think they are welcoming to anyone who has a desire to learn!