iSpeak Blog

What Is Women in Pharma? What Do They Do? How Do I Get Involved?

Christina Anna Gossweiler
What Is Women in Pharma? What Do They Do? How Do I Get Involved?

Adapting to new situations can be hard – new job, new city, new industry – change is rarely easy, and adapting to a new idea of ‘self’ can be even more challenging. We ask ourselves questions like am I good enough? What can I really contribute to the job, the network, the industry? Do I even belong here? Unless you were born with the world’s largest ego, you’ve probably found yourself asking these questions – I know I have.

The good news is – you’re not alone. In fact, there’s an entire group dedicated to changing your perception of who you are and what you can handle. If you’re like me and struggle with uncertainty, it can be easy to miss the opportunities that exist before you simply because you can’t get out of your own way or you’re afraid to take chances.

People who seem to do this effortlessly are both interesting and fascinating – almost as if they are some new alien species that has done things us ‘normal’ people could/would never do. What is their secret? How are they so brave? Why aren’t they afraid to take chances?

Now imagine you have help. Help from a group of like-minded individuals who come together for the sole purpose of betterment; a network of mentors, role models, and resources across all levels that help you achieve both personal and professional success. Sounds pretty great, right? Would you be less afraid to take chances if you had their support? Are you wondering how you can gain access to such a group? You came to the right place:

Participate: Attend a Women in Pharma® signature networking dinner at ISPE for priceless insights. Each dinner is hosted by a leading executive in the pharma industry, who will facilitate a discussion around the topic of how to strengthen relationships and develop your career.

Donate: Those who donate $10 or more ($5 or more for students) to the ISPE Foundation for Women in Pharma will receive a Women in Pharma button. Every dollar from the button sales will be contributed to a scholarship fund supporting future opportunities for women in the industry. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to offer a travel grant for a university level student on behalf of Women In Pharma for the 2019 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo to Last Vegas next month. Complete an application now.

Join a mentor circle: Extend your professional and personal network as a mentee or mentor in the Women in Pharma mentoring program. Women in Pharma will now be hosting “Mentor Circles” of approximately 10 people in various locations as well as via teleconferences. Learn more.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be. I know this is a lot to take in, so to summarize – if you’re looking for like-minded, career-driven professionals, a dedicated mentor, or just a new network to help you grow both personally and professionally, join us and give one of these opportunities a try. We would love to have you as part of our network. At the very least, new friends and opportunities will come out of it, for sure!