Internship Location: Remote
Organization Type: Private sector
Policy Areas: Regulatory process, health policy, medicine registration policy
My summer internship at Humphries Pharmaceutical Consulting as an International Medicine Registration – Project Assistant was a valuable learning experience. I assisted in managing regulatory registration projects for new drugs, including preparing documents, coordinating communication, and maintaining project timelines. The role required meticulous attention to detail and effective communication skills, both of which were honed through my coursework at La Follette. The skills I developed in courses like Public Affairs 281 and Population Health 471 were directly applicable. Understanding the principles of clinical trials and toxicology helped me review application documents critically. The ethical considerations discussed in previous study also guided my approach to handling adverse event reports. What surprised me most was the complexity and length of the drug approval process. The pre-IND stage, where we could ask the FDA ten questions, provided crucial insights for improving drug development. The tight deadlines due to financial pressures underscored the importance of effective project management and communication. The most valuable aspect of the internship was the real-world application of my academic knowledge. It allowed me to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enhancing my understanding of regulatory processes. This experience has solidified my interest in a career in regulatory affairs and inspired me to further develop my skills in this area. I would highly recommend this internship to future students. It offers hands-on experience in regulatory affairs, an opportunity to apply academic knowledge and a deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical industry’s complexities. This internship has been very practical in helping me shape my career aspirations and preparing me for future opportunities in the field.