With my biology degree, I interned in a hospital, scribed in a clinic, and became a licensed phlebotomist. Observing physical examinations and surgical procedures reminds me of the importance of understanding cell biology, organ structures, and body systems. My best advice: turn your studies in biological sciences into experiences!
The variety of internships posted by local biotech companies were always very dynamic and interesting. It was such a testament to how companies wanted to attract UCSD students. I took advantage of those opportunities and it really helped to build the foundation of my career. I didn’t realize, until my senior year, how flexible a biology degree would be. Beyond the traditional pre-med route, having a biology degree allows one to pursue different career paths such as medical devices, healthcare consulting, or sales. Medical Device Consultant, Former Vice President of Regulatory and Quality at Willow
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“My biology degree allowed me the opportunity to explore and learn about diverse ecosystems where I conducted research and restored habitats for different species of endangered and threatened flora and fauna, which I am grateful to still continue doing today. My advice for current students is to take advantage of opportunities, such as studying abroad or volunteering/working in a lab, because it is just as important to figure out what you don't like as it is to know what you do like. By taking advantage of opportunities you are also meeting new people and expanding your network, which can lead to more opportunities and growth. “ Biological Science Technician and USDA Forest Service and Conservation Education Assistant, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit
Graduating Into An Uncertain Job Market — Is Anyone Safe?
“Rachel Abreau is a UCSD alumna twice over. She graduated in 2015 with a BS in Biology and in 2019 with an MS in Drug Development and Product Management. Rachel didn't plan on calling San Diego home for long after graduation, but San Diego has an irresistible draw. Rachel started her career in a laboratory setting, analyzing clinical research samples. One serendipitous day, she received an email from UCSD career center advertising an event for clinical research careers at Parexel. She quickly spruced up her resume and prepared to pivot from the lab bench to an office-setting. After a few years as an in-house clinical research associate, she made her way to the sponsor side, as a clinical research associate at AstraZeneca. She spent a few years as a road-warrior, visiting research sites and monitoring their patient data. Rachel has been at AZ since 2017, where she is now a clinical study associate manager. Rachel oversees clinical trial operations for the US and is always looking for ways to improve patient safety, satisfaction, and overall study efficiency. “
Extensive international travel during my childhood years shaped my worldview, and I felt the need to help sick people in developing countries to feel better. I resolved to become a surgeon, because I believed that with my own two hands that I could make a positive difference in the health of my patients. UCSD offered me so many opportunities that helped make my dream a reality, from research in cutting-edge labs, where our fellow students are making groundbreaking discoveries that may save lives in the future, to opportunities to get involved like the Student Health Advocates and Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity. The professors here are world class and are truly invested in the futures of their students. I enjoyed my time at UCSD so much that I stayed on for medical school, and later returned for an MBA at Rady School of Management!
Whether you are an undergraduate considering graduate school or industry, or a graduate student looking for a way into governmental positions, the UCSD career center has resources.
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UC San Diego students and alumni: Use your ucsd.edu email address to log into Handshake to access internships and job openings. You will also be able to post your resume. In addition, the portal lists career and professional development events and programs.
Melissa Hoon is the Associate Director of Industry Engagement and Career Coaching at the UC San Diego Career Center where she supports the Division of Biological Sciences. She works with top life sciences companies such as Pfizer, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Illumina, to support their recruitment of students for internships and full-time positions. Melissa also supports biology students by providing one-on-one career coaching sessions, and resume and cover letter review. She specializes in the development and instruction of professional development workshops and courses, including BILD 80 Job and Internship Applications, BILD 81 Interview Skills, BILD 82 Soft Skills, BILD 83 Business Communications in Biology, and BILD 92 Professional Development Topics in Biology. She also hosts the annual UC San Diego Women in STEM Conference. Email Melissa at mhoon@ucsd.edu to schedule an appointment or inquire about professional development.
A major in Biology can lead to further education such as Medical School, Public Health, Pharmacy School, Veterinary Medicine, Nursing School, and others. The UCSD Career Center features a section with information about the health professions and specialized guidance for those considering that route. If you are planning to pursue one of the health professions, you will be able to locate information and receive advising on how to prepare.
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If you are in doubt about whether such a career is the right choice for you, Health Beat is also for you.
If you are in doubt about whether such a career is the right choice for you, Health Beat is also for you.
