How Identity Has Influenced a CEO's Career at a Start-up Biotech Company
Instead of detailing his own undergraduate experience, which he admits involved "too much beer," the CEO recommends undergraduates "reach out to people in industry," emphasizing networking as key to career success. This approach, combined with a "passion and commitment" for the work and a willingness to "get stuck in," is presented as crucial for long-term career fulfillment and advancement, according to the CEO.
Networking, Career Exploration, Industry Connections, Passion & Commitment, Learning by Doing
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jon Ellis
CEO
Start-up Biotech Company
University of Leeds (UK) 2002
N/A
Biology & Related Sciences
Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical
Business Strategy
Immigrant
Video Highlights
1. Reach out to people in the industry via email or other means to make connections and learn about different fields.
2. Make connections with companies in your field of interest to increase your chances of getting a job after graduation.
3. Find what inspires you and develop passion and commitment for your career path through actively engaging in your work and learning by doing.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
This isn't a question I can answer based on my own experience. When I was an undergraduate, I drank too much beer and likely didn't participate in as many extracurricular activities as I should have.
Therefore, I'll answer this by recommending what one should do rather than what I did. I definitely wasn't the most disciplined if I had my time again.
I think the important thing is to reach out to people in your industry. If you're studying biological sciences and are interested in a particular field, just reach out to people. Google the company and email them.
Most people are not monsters and will actually enjoy a quick conversation with undergraduates. They can offer more information about their field. So, really, just connect. I think it's so important.
Most roles are also filled through connections. If you make connections with companies in the industry, by the time you graduate, there may be suitable roles available. This can put you at the top of the list because you already have that connection.
These conversations also help you understand what interests and inspires you. You need real passion and commitment for a career to be successful in the long term.
Be prepared to get stuck in and do any aspect of the job to the best of your ability. I'm a huge believer in learning by doing. Analysis paralysis is a real thing; that statement is so true. I think the way you truly progress is by getting involved, trying things, and seeing what you think.
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