Rebecca Ballantyne – BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development

Name: Rebecca Ballantyne

From: Sligo

School: Ursuline College Sligo

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choosing your course:
I will be graduating in November 2024 from ATU Sligo with a 2.1 Bachelors (Honours) Degree in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development. I always enjoyed studying science in secondary school, I chose both Biology and Chemistry as part of my leaving certificate subjects. This course was an ideal choice for me once I left secondary school, as it included modules such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math and many more that I was previously familiar with. Throughout the 4 years, I developed a more in-depth knowledge of these modules, and branched off into more industry specific topics such as Legislation, Medical Device Manufacture, Microbiology, Active Ingredient Synthesis and so much more.

What specifically about the course did you particularly enjoy?
My favourite aspect of the course is the 50:50 split between practical work and theory. The theory learned in class was demonstrated and taught in the lab, which improved my understanding of the topics. The lab aspect of the course is very hands on, each student has the opportunity to carry out experiments in small groups, and in some cases, individually.
As well as this, the classes aren’t overly populated, which makes the learning environment easier. Lecturers and students are always on a first name basis, which comes in handy when looking for advice and help.

What is the best thing about the course that you think new applicants should know?
Each module is an advancement of a previous module, if you have gained a good understanding of a certain topic, it can be applied to the next stage in the course. For example, Organic Chemistry is an expansion of the general Chemistry that is learned in Semester 1 and 2. This progression of knowledge continues throughout the course and your understanding is enhanced from year to year.

Any favourite modules during your time studying?
I have many favourite modules, so it is hard to choose one in particular. However, lab-based modules were always fun! It provides a great environment to learn and understand the theory, but also gives the opportunity to make friends with new people as we often work in small groups of 3-4.
As the course progressed into the final year, my favourite module became Pharmaceutical Pharmacology. This module used all our knowledge of biology and chemistry and applied it to real life diseases and illnesses, and ways in which pharmaceuticals can be targeted to treat them.

What key skills did you learn while studying in ATU Sligo that have influenced your career?
I learned and developed many analytical skills, which I can apply in my new position as Diagnostic Technician. Information Technology Skills such as Microsoft Office and Minitab. Scientific Communications is a module in the course that helped develop communication skills and presentation skills to aid in our careers.

Can you share some detail of your career path or further studies to date
Throughout my studies, I have worked as a Diagnostic Assistant in Abbott Diagnostic Division Sligo. I gained an invaluable insight into the industry. Since completing my exams in May, I have changed roles, and now am working as a Diagnostic Technician, manufacturing diagnostic solutions are various diseases.

What does your current role involve?
I am now working in an ISO 5 standard laboratory, preparing solutions using analytical techniques and equipment. I must gown up in the correct PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) before entering the lab, collect my chemicals and tanks and begin preparing solutions that are used to diagnose patients. These diagnostic solutions provide qualitative and quantitative results for diseases such as Prostate Cancer, Hepatitis B, Rubella and more.

What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?
It is one of the most dynamic career paths, there are always opportunities to move and explore new areas of the industry. I am now working in a laboratory but wish to explore the regulatory side of the sector in the future as I progress through my career. There are so many departments to gain experience in such as Operations, to Supply Chain Management to Senior Management! There are endless opportunities to grow your career in the Pharmaceutical Industry.

What did you like best about studying in ATU Sligo?
Being from Sligo, my decision to attend ATU was a no-brainer! It is in the center of Sligo; commuting was easy, and the campus has so much to offer. As well as these the smaller class sizes were so beneficial for learning, asking questions and forming relationships with peers and lecturers.
ATU is surrounded by many multinational companies such as Abbott and AbbVie. This course worked hand in hand with these companies to give students the best possible chances of kickstarting their careers by creating career development programs, intern opportunities and placement contracts.

Learn more about the Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development