Connecting the Present and Future of Pharmacology: Cardiff University Alumni Networking Event

Navigating the transition from university to the professional world and knowing what careers are out there can feel daunting for students. Therefore, the Cardiff University Pharmacology Society organised an alumni networking event for current students of the BSc Medical Pharmacology course to consider possible career paths taken by alumni of the course. Cardiff University’s Medical Pharmacology students had the invaluable opportunity to connect with alumni and industry professionals at a networking event designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and career pathways.

This event aimed to inspire current students by showcasing the diverse opportunities available to pharmacology graduates. It showed how a degree in Pharmacology develops transferrable skills applicable to careers outside of academia and even beyond the sciences in some cases! This initiative was made possible through the British Pharmacological Society (BPS) student society fund, which we applied for to create a tailored career-focused event that would help students explore the diverse careers opportunities available.

Kicking Off with Inspiration

The evening began with an insightful talk from Professor Cherry Wainwright, President-Elect of the British Pharmacological Society. Cherry shared her incredible journey of how she went from an undergraduate student to a leading figure in pharmacology, offering an honest perspective on the challenges and triumphs she encountered along the way. She reflected on her experiences, highlighting key moments that shaped her path, from early research experiences to leadership roles. Her talk emphasised the importance of curiosity, tenacity, and adaptability in building a successful career in pharmacology.
 
Following her talk, Cherry offered a short Q&A session, where students had the chance to ask about her career development, research opportunities, and the future of pharmacology. This session provided valuable insights into the skills and experiences that can help students thrive in the field.

Networking with Cardiff Alumni

The heart of the event was a two-hour networking session, where current students connected with Cardiff University Medical Pharmacology alumni who have pursued careers in a plethora of fields, including research, clinical trials, medical writing and more. Students had the chance to discuss potential career paths, seek advice, and expand their professional networks. This session was designed to encourage open conversations about different career paths, postgraduate opportunities, and the practical skills needed to succeed beyond university.
 
To further enhance engagement, alumni had submitted pre-recorded videos before the event, detailing their journeys from an undergraduate study to their current roles. These videos provided students with additional insights into the diverse career options available after a pharmacology degree. This inclusive format allowed students to explore a variety of career paths before the event itself, helping them come prepared with ideas of who they would like to speak to and any questions they had. It also allowed alumni from farther afield that could not attend in person to share their unique perspectives and advice.

Reflections of the Event

This event successfully fostered connections between students and alumni, providing attendees with both inspiration and practical career advice. Currently, career fairs at Cardiff University often cater to broader scientific disciplines, leaving pharmacology students with limited tailored career guidance. This event successfully filled this gap by providing students with a pharmacology-focused space to engage directly with professionals who have successfully transitioned from university to diverse career paths. This gave students a platform to connect with alumni, gain career insights, and expand their professional networks.
 
As pharmacology continues to evolve, events like these play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of pharmacologists. By engaging with alumni and industry leaders, students can better navigate their career choices and take proactive steps toward their professional goals. Given the success of this event, I hope to see more initiatives like this in the future, ensuring pharmacology students have the resources and the networks needed to thrive in their careers. I encourage other students to apply for the BPS student society fund to support similar initiatives, ensuring future cohorts of pharmacology students have the resources and networks needed to thrive.

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