How Identity Has Influenced A Clinical Trial Pharmacist At UCLA Health's Career
Chai, a first-generation college graduate and Clinical Trial Pharmacist at UCLA Health, attributes their career success to "determination" in overcoming socioeconomic disadvantages, advising students to "not worry about the money" and pursue higher education despite financial hurdles, leveraging loans and scholarships. The interviewee emphasizes that a degree and subsequent employment facilitate relatively quick loan repayment, and loan forgiveness programs exist.
Determination, Overcoming Challenges, Financial Planning, Scholarships, Loan Repayment
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Chai Lam
Clinical Trial Pharmacist
UCLA Health
UCLA 2004
UCSF PharmD
Biology & Related Sciences
Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical
Research and Development (R&D)
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Determination and focus are crucial for navigating a career, especially as a first-generation college graduate.
2. Financial aid options like loans and scholarships can help overcome socioeconomic disadvantages.
3. The potential for quick loan payoff after securing a job in the field lessens the financial burden of higher education.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a first-generation college graduate, how has that impacted the way you navigate your career?
It's definitely been a lot of determination to make sure I go to college and graduate. Sometimes, coming from a socioeconomic disadvantage, it can be difficult.
Look for loans and scholarships that are out there. Don't worry too much about your loans. Once you get that degree and that job, you'll pay it off pretty quickly.
There's also loan forgiveness. So, my advice to students is just be determined and stay focused. Don't worry about the money disadvantage. Do take out loans, and you should be able to finish and pay it off pretty quickly.
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