What I did before becoming a biotech NP
Everyone’s journey is a little different but here’s mine!
I loved the field of pediatric oncology and I found that out pretty early on. I remember taking care of my first pediatric cancer patient in clinical and it completely changed my brain chemistry. I instantly knew that was what I wanted to do.
I started off as a peds onc nurse right out of school and decided my next career move was to get my NP. Tbh I wasn’t sure if I should stick to peds onc as an NP or explore something new. My husband was moving to Philly for residency so I had to find my next opportunity there. Peds onc is a pretty small field so I had connections and was able to land an NP role at CHOP in peds onc.
Once the pandemic hit, everything changed for me. I was pregnant and realized I needed to take a break from work because there was no one to help me take care of my brand new baby!
That time was such a gift in retrospect because it allowed me time to reassess what I really wanted.
That’s when I learned about biotech and pharma and started to apply.
Once I landed my first biotech job, it all changed for me! I finally felt I found the career I can retire in.
#lemon8partner #lemon8challenge #healthcare #nursesoflemon8 #career
Transitioning careers can be daunting, but the blend of experience in pediatric oncology and new challenges in biotech offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Many healthcare professionals find themselves reassessing their career paths, particularly during significant life changes such as the pandemic. It’s essential to explore emerging fields like biotech, especially with the constant evolution of healthcare. Biotech roles often demand specialized knowledge that combines nursing skills with an understanding of clinical science and patient care. For instance, roles such as Clinical Science Liaison or Nurse Practitioner in inpatient pediatric oncology can greatly leverage previous clinical experience while providing substantial benefits to research and patient management. Networking within both the biotech and healthcare communities can also present unique opportunities and insights, thus facilitating smoother transitions and increasing job satisfaction. Additionally, considering positions that align with your passion and expertise, like pharmacology or life sciences, can lead to fulfilling career advancements. Ultimately, reflections on professional experiences during transformative periods can serve as guides for future career decisions, affirming the message that it’s never too late to pursue a path that resonates with your professional desires and personal values.
