Starting a new career in a different country is no small feat. But for medical writer Terissa Barnes, it was a challenge worth taking on. A 2022 graduate of the Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs (QARA) program at AAPS, Terissa leveraged her education and determination to build a rewarding career in the pharmaceutical industry.
Today, she thrives at Cliantha Research Limited, where her passion for science and communication align seamlessly.
Bridging Academia and the Pharmaceutical Industry
Originally from Jamaica, Terissa’s professional journey began as a scientist in academia. But her move to Canada signaled the start of a new chapter. “My intention coming to Canada was to engage in pharmaceuticals and to work in the pharmaceutical industry,” she explains. Making that transition, however, required specialized training.
That’s where AAPS came in. “AAPS provided a good bridge from my scientific background to the pharmaceutical sciences,” Terissa says. With a curriculum designed to meet industry standards, the QARA program helped her gain the skills needed to thrive in her new field. “It was the best choice, and my only regret is not choosing it sooner,” she reflects.
The quality assurance training program at AAPS helped Terissa gain the skills needed to thrive.
Practical Learning From Industry Experts
For Terissa, one of the standout aspects of her AAPS experience was the quality of instruction. “Coming into a new field, I had no idea what to expect, but I took the program seriously, and I learned a lot from the experience of the faculty that AAPS has,” she shares.
The hands-on training and practical insights from experienced instructors proved invaluable. “Working as a medical writer, I am now able to see that what I was learning at AAPS was exactly what is needed for the industry,” Terissa says. This real-world relevance gave her the confidence and capability to excel in her career as a medical writer.
Our Career Services helped Terissa land an internship as a medical writer.
Navigating Job Search Challenges
Breaking into the pharmaceutical industry wasn’t easy. Terissa’s initial job search proved daunting. “I sent out hundreds of resumes with no responses,” she recalls. Only when she sought help from AAPS Career Services things began to change.
Their expertise helped her refine her job search strategy, leading to an internship at Cliantha Research Limited, where she works as a full-time medical writer. “I am so happy that I took the opportunity to use the expertise of Career Services here at AAPS,” she says.
A Rewarding Career as a Medical Writer
Today, Terissa thrives as a medical writer, a career that combines her scientific expertise with her passion for clear and effective communication. She credits her success to the strong foundation built at AAPS.
Her story underscores the importance of tailored, practical education in achieving career goals. “If you are looking for a good quality, self-paced, online, and flexible program for your pharmaceutical career, AAPS is the only choice,” Terissa says.
Today, Terissa thrives in her role as a medical writer.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Terissa’s journey inspires anyone considering a career in the pharmaceutical industry. She encourages future students to make the most of the resources at AAPS, particularly Career Services. “Come in and talk to the Career Services team members, and they will help you get your journey started,” she advises.
Watch Terissa Barnes share her journey in her own words:
Watch her video here.
Your Path to Success Starts at AAPS
Terissa’s story highlights the transformative power of education. At AAPS, our pharma QA and RA training programs are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this competitive field. Whether you aspire to be a medical writer or explore other pharmaceutical careers, AAPS offers the tools and support to help you succeed.
Are you looking for comprehensive quality assurance and regulatory affairs training?
Contact AAPS for more information.