I am working as a Clinical Research Coordinator at a research clinic in Atlanta. I work with central nervous system disorders, and I collaborate with pharmaceutical companies and universities to test new medications for efficacy, safety, and tolerability. More specifically, my job involves overseeing patients through the clinical trial process to ensure the studies are conducted ethically, legally, and per protocol. The data that I collect from patients is submitted to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in order to gain approval for the medications to go to market. I ultimately want to attend pharmacy school and work in the clinical research industry at a pharmaceutical company.
My biology degree from Tech prepared me for my career because the coursework taught me how to think and how to problem solve. The diversity of the curriculum truly challenged me and taught me problem-solving skills that I use daily in the real world. Although I am not using the specific material I learned in organic chemistry II or physics II, I now use the skills I learned in those classes to determine how best to conduct complicated clinical trials and collect quality data from patients.
Ask early and ask often! Don’t be afraid to reach out for help, not only from your professors but also from your peers. Georgia Tech faculty and students are some of the best and brightest in the world, and it is a special and unique privilege to learn among them. I really do believe that there will never be another time in your life when you are among so many stellar individuals who are changing the world, so take advantage of your resources! I also encourage current and prospective students to join clubs and organizations. Pick something that excites you and go for it. The clubs and organizations I joined at Georgia Tech pushed and challenged me (in a good way!) just as much as my coursework.
A degree from Georgia Tech is invaluable. I now realize it even more as an alumna when people ask me where I attended college, and my response is always met with admiration. Your future colleagues and employer will recognize the work ethic that Georgia Tech requires. The Georgia Tech degree is definitely something to be proud of!
