“I have no experience… how can I get my first job in the industry?” Several students have asked this question countless times throughout my academic career. The question arises even more when they are close to or completing their academic studies and are exploring job options.
Imagine you have just finished your college or master’s degree with great enthusiasm and determination, ready to undertake professionally. You’ve sent multiple resumes or CVs, and with each application, your hopes of getting your first job opportunity increase. However, after several weeks, you realize the answers you hoped for are not coming. You ask yourself, “How can I be chosen for a position if I don’t have the experience? I cannot acquire new knowledge or experience if I am not given the opportunity.” This frustrating and upsetting situation is something that many recent graduates face. I want to share some strategies to help you overcome this obstacle and be more prepared for the job search.
1. Leverage your academic experiences
Even if you feel like you don’t have professional experience, don’t underestimate the value of the experiences you gained during your studies. Research projects, laboratory work, and any participation in summer programs or volunteering in labs are valued by employers. Be sure to highlight these experiences on your resume, specifying the specific knowledge and technical skills you developed, such as teamwork, conflict management, use and management of particular equipment, analysis techniques, complex problem solving, time management, and meeting set deadlines.
Tip: Create a section in your resume titled “Relevant Academic Experience” where you detail each of these projects, emphasizing how they relate to the duties of the position you’re applying for. Evaluate the job description and the required skills you are applying for and compare your acquired knowledge and how you can contribute with that knowledge and skills to the position’s responsibilities.
2. Gain experience through internships and volunteering
While it is true that many job offers require experience, internships and volunteer work are of great help as gateways for those who are starting. Feel free to look for internship opportunities, even if they’re unpaid. These opportunities will allow you to gain the experience employers seek. In addition, volunteering in research labs, including hospitals or biotech companies, can also provide you with the hands-on experience you need. I even go further; some consulting companies offer services by contract or professional services to other companies. You could explore one of these companies that gives you the opportunity for that first experience, whether paid or volunteer.
Tip: Contact your professors or mentors at the university to ask about possible internship opportunities or projects you can get involved in. They may have connections in the industry that could open doors for you.
3. Continue your training with specific specialized courses
Education doesn’t end when you get your degree. Consider enrolling in specialized courses aligned with the requirements of the positions you’re interested in. Numerous platforms offer online courses on topics such as bioinformatics, biotechnology, and quality control in the biosciences industry. Not only do these courses expand your knowledge, but they also demonstrate to employers your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Tip: Include a “Supplemental Training” section in your resume where you list the relevant courses you have completed.
Here are some examples of online platforms that can offer courses aimed at the industry:
Coursera (www.coursera.org) offers various courses in biotechnology, bioinformatics, and biosciences in general, many of which have been developed by prestigious universities. edX (www.edx.org): This platform offers courses from universities such as Harvard, MIT, and others, with specialized programs. Other platforms you can explore include FutureLearn (www.futurelearn.com), LinkedIn Learning (www.linkeding.com), and Udemy (www.udemy.com) among others.
BioBusiness Research (www.biobusinessresearch.net): This platform focuses on the biomedical sciences, quality, laboratories, and microbiology industry.
These platforms offer free and paid courses to help students and professionals gain new skills and keep up with the latest trends in the life sciences industry.
4. Strengthen your network
Networking is essential in any career. Participate in events, seminars, and webinars related to your field of interest. Join professional groups on LinkedIn and follow industry organizations. Connecting with established professionals in the industry can provide valuable advice, possible recommendations, or information about job opportunities that need to be published.
Tip: After attending an event, contact the speakers or participants on LinkedIn, mentioning something specific about their talk that interested you. This gesture can help you start a meaningful professional relationship.
5. Be prepared to stand out in the interview
Finally, you must be prepared to stand out when you get an interview. Research the company thoroughly and learn about its products, mission, and how they align with your interests and skills. During the interview, mention how your academic experiences and any other additional training have prepared you to face the position’s challenges. Also, show your enthusiasm for learning and willingness to contribute from day one.
Tip: Practice answering common interview questions and prepare concrete examples showing how you’ve overcome challenges in your studies or projects. Trust and clarity in your communication can make all the difference. It would help if you came prepared with examples of specific events from your years of study, class projects, research, practice, or internships.
In short, getting your first job is challenging, but with the right strategies, you can overcome obstacles and make your way in the professional world. Make the most of your academic experiences, look for internship or volunteer opportunities, continue training, take seminars and complementary courses, strengthen your network, and prepare to stand out in the interview. Every step you take brings you closer to your goal.
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The Life Sciences Industry 