If you didn’t come out of this year’s recruitment cycle with a fellowship, don’t worry—this isn’t the only way to break into the pharmaceutical industry! There are plenty of other pathways that can lead to a fulfilling career, including other types of fellowships. Here are some alternative routes and practical advice if you are interested in reapplying for fellowship next year:
1. Leverage Your Network
Connections matter. Stay in touch with classmates, colleagues, and mentors who are already in the industry. Often, opportunities arise through word-of-mouth or referrals, so maintaining those relationships can be invaluable. If you had a positive interaction with a company or fellow during the recruitment process, reach out to them – they may be able to help point you to open roles or connect you with others in the industry who can. Not all fellowship programs conclude their recruitment process after midyear, and often there are off-cycle or unfilled positions remaining that fellows can refer you to. Persistence and timing can make a big difference.
2. Entry-Level Positions
Some pharmaceutical companies offer entry-level roles that serve as a great starting point. These roles are listed on platforms like the Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO) entry-level job feed and LinkedIn. Keep an eye on these listings and apply proactively. Examples of entry-level roles can include Clinical Trials Specialist, Medical Communications Manager, Medical Information Specialist, Label Manager, Senior Territory Manager, and more.
3. Vendor Companies
Vendor or agency organizations that work with pharmaceutical companies offer positions in areas like medical communications, market research, or advertising. These roles provide excellent industry exposure and can serve as a stepping stone into a pharmaceutical company. A few examples of medical communications agencies include Six Degrees, Red Nucleus, Cognite, and Emotive. Contract research organizations (CROs) are an example of vendors used for clinical trials and research projects. Some examples of CROs include IQVIA, Parexel, Covance, Icon, and Certis. The primary difference between medical agencies and CROs is their focus: CROs are more research-focused and involved in the drug development process, while agencies are focused more on communicating medical and scientific information to key stakeholders.
4. FDA Fellowships
The FDA’s fellowship program offers unique opportunities in drug information, regulatory affairs, advertising/promotional review, and medication safety. Recruitment is currently open for the 2025-2027 cycle, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. This program can provide invaluable experience and connections, particularly for those interested in regulatory affairs.
5. Consulting Roles
Consulting firms often look for individuals with healthcare and pharmaceutical expertise. These roles allow you to gain diverse experience across multiple projects and clients, offering a solid foundation for future opportunities. Keep in mind: consulting is not for the faint of heart. Consulting roles often have a highly competitive application process, and a demanding workload requiring long hours and weekend work for high-stakes projects. That being said, those who thrive in fast-paced environments and seek rapid career advancement may do well here.
6. Reapplying Next Year
If you’ve considered some of the above options, but you still feel like fellowship is the right path for you, it’s not too late. Many current and incoming fellows have gone through the recruitment process more than once. Take time to reflect on your process this past year: what went well, what could have gone better, and what will change if you re-apply? Consider reaching out to fellows you interviewed with to get their feedback on areas for improvement. You have ~9 months to prepare for next year’s cycle, so be strategic in your approach and seek out opportunities to build up your resume and transferable skills in the meantime. Remember: growth comes from reflection and action. Approach the process with a fresh perspective and a game plan to improve your chances.
Fellowship is not the only path into the pharmaceutical industry. Everyone’s journey is unique, shaped by their own experiences and goals. Take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come, the skills you’ve built, and the knowledge you’ve gained. The road ahead is filled with possibilities, and your next step could be the one that leads to your dream career!