Jennifer Berish '20
Jennifer Berish Class of 2020
Tell us about yourself. Where are you now, what are you doing?
I am a first year postdoctoral fellow at ECIR Medical Communications, working as a medical affairs and scientific communications fellow. Our company is remote, so COVID didn’t have a big impact on our work in the way that it did for some businesses. Although our days are packed with projects, recently I’ve been able to work on congress strategy for some of the world’s top pharmaceutical companies. I get to interact with senior leaders within the pharmaceutical industry, which is so rewarding. Even though we’re a remote company, we’re still learning as we go—pivoting to online events has had its challenges since we normally travel for large-scale events to meet in person. I am proud of my company’s accomplishments in assisting with major national and international conferences in the virtual setting, but I still miss human interaction. It’s tough to get a sense of people’s level of interest over the phone, or video call.
How did you get to where you are now?
I had always wanted to take a non-traditional path post-graduation. My first APPE rotation was in Colorado in sports medicine and sports pharmacy. It was then that I was recommended to look into the pharmaceutical industry and medical affairs. When I learned more, it sounded like home, and was a perfect fit. I’m a huge people person with a passion for leadership and patient care, and it was clear that strengths could shine in this field. I feel like I’m truly making an impact - I’m working on cures for patients and maximizing my degree. As a P4 student going through the fellowship application process, I was lucky to land interviews and offers with multiple companies, and ultimately accept my top-choice position at ECIR Medical Communications. Never underestimate yourself! So many non-traditional routes are available and more and more ACPHS alums are taking those paths!
What did you like about ACPHS?
I was able to interact with so many people, and had the opportunity to have many leadership positions as a student which really helped me get where I am. My brother went to ACP and he’s a community pharmacy manager, so I was familiar with the College and the profession. I knew I wanted a small tight-knit community. I also knew I wanted an abundance of leadership opportunities, and I was fortunate to serve as the SGA Vice President and Phi Lambda Sigma President during my time as a student. A big part of my success as a student was due to upperclassmen who helped me. It was a very supportive environment.
How do you give back now?
I serve on the National Fellows Council through the Industry Pharmacists Organization. I’ve also had many P4 students reach out to about the fellowship process. I always respond, because I want more students to know about alternate pathways and opportunities within the industry. I owe much of my success to alumni in the industry who helped me during the process, and I always look to pay it forward.
What advice do you have for current students?
Get involved in clubs and organizations. There is something for everyone at ACPHS, and there are so many opportunities for you to build your leadership skills which are extremely beneficial throughout your career.
How could the College help current students?
Do more to create connections between younger students and older students. That was key for me. Peer mentoring was critical— I was both a mentee and a mentor and I couldn’t wait to give back when it was my turn. Also, helping with orientation was a great experience for me as an older student, because I could share what I knew with younger students and create connections early on in their college experience. I remember how valuable it was for me to have older students who I could talk to as a first-year student trying to figure things out.
Can you share anything about your unique experience as a member of the Class of 2020?
We never got to say goodbye to campus or our friends. Staying in touch has been more challenging because of COVID and because everyone has new jobs and they’re starting their lives. Just the same, I’ve been very fortunate to find a role I love, and I’m eager to see what’s next for the brilliant Class of 2020.