So, I had a vast amount of exposure to the field before I graduated. I was given a great deal of responsibility immediately, and it made me want to learn more. Since starting with the company full time, I have been asked to take the lead on a new clinical trial as well as serve on numerous internal committees. A Pharmacy school trains students to be great clinicians, and throughout pharmacy school I aspired to be the next great clinical specialist. However, after my industry experience, I was a changed person.
Pharmacy school does give students some exposure to industry, albeit limited.
But I think a better job needs to be done with making pharmacy students aware of which jobs they are qualified to do within the pharmaceutical industry. At my school, I think they are on the right track by inviting professionals in to speak to students. But I truly believe that it's your career and you, as students, should be extremely inquisitive about the career opportunities that are out there. If you are truly serious about a career in the pharmaceutical industry, you need to take a very active role in making contacts. Most companies do not recruit, except for sales positions-which in itself is a way to get your foot in the door.