Hello everyone,
As students on the MPharm degree, it’s a good idea to gain some work experience during the course. Getting on-the-job experience will not only make you stand out from fellow MPharm graduates, but will also help you to decide where you would like your career to lead.
1. Don’t be afraid to ask - even if it’s not advertised
Most pharmacies or companies will be willing to take on a student for a day to two despite not advertising for placements or internships. Although the experience is less likely to be for a long period of time, any experience offered is valuable. Good places to start asking are independent pharmacies in your local area. You never know until you ask!
2. Get on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a great way to stay in contact with people professionally, whilst also making yourself visible to any potential new contacts and employers. Networking online may give rise to new opportunities and will keep you up to date with news and events which may be of interest. In addition the LinkedIn, it may be a good idea to consider getting a professional twitter account.
3. Use your contacts
Do you know anyone working in the pharmacy environment? Don’t be afraid to ask around, as your family or friends may know someone who does. Surely they won’t mind sharing this information with you if you could benefit from it? Moreover, think back if you have recently attended a pharmacy or healthcare related conference and met inspiring people who work in a pharmacy environment. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to contact them (maybe through LinkedIn). Not only could you gain information about their work but there is a chance that you could get a work experience!
4. Ask your personal adviser or lecturers
It would seem very convenient to ask for advice either your personal adviser or your lecturer at your university who you see regularly. Although, they may often seem busy with their own research or lectures, they can be very helpful and willing to share their experiences, recommendations or contacts with you. And getting a work experience or an internship is one step in developing your professional pharmaceutical career.
Thank you for taking your time to read this blog post and stay tuned for more as we upload each month!
APC Team
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