Notes from the field: Monahan experiences pediatric drug research at FDA

Learn more about P4 Christie Monahan's APPE rotation at the Food & Drug Administration. 

What made you decide to pursue the rotation?

CM: While my track in pharmacy was and still is leading towards residency, I was looking to get as much as I could get in variety out of my fourth-year rotations. This included looking at regulatory agencies and industry. Out of the ones offered, the FDA most appealed to me due to its location, research ambitions, and involvement with REMS programming.

What was your favorite part of the rotation?

CM: Most definitely getting to experience the unique environment that the FDA promotes. There are a lot of different disciplines, professionals & students, coming together to promote greater public health. In addition, I got to be involved with research, which I enjoy doing!

What surprised you most about the rotation?

CM: The sheer possibilities available to pharmacists within the federal government is tremendous. 

What are some of the things you saw and did while on rotation?

CM: My main project on rotation was centered around pediatric drug target research. I worked closely with my preceptor and her fellow to make strides in this area (can’t go in much detail). In addition, I attended a scheduled lecture series for students that went into each area of the FDA, as well as other organizations in the federal government. In any downtime, I was able to explore areas within the FDA that I was interested in.

How do you believe you made an impact on this rotation?

CM: With the work I was able to do on my research project, I was able to identify potentially 80+ new pediatric drug targets for pharmaceutical industry research. This is awesome.

How will the rotation assist you in future career goals?

CM: This rotation opened the door to many future conversations and opportunities that would not have been available if I had not applied for and completed the FDA rotation. Whether in residency or industry, the ability to talk to people from different cultural and professional backgrounds leads to greater success of outcomes for OUR patients.

Have your professional interests changed as a result of this rotation, and if so, how?

CM: While my residency track has not changed, my options for jobs has. I am now considering working for the Indian Health Service or the Commissioned Corp as a pharmacist because government employment carries great benefits.

Would you recommend this rotation to other students?  

CM: Most definitely, even if you are not considering industry!

How would you describe this rotation to other students?

This rotation will “look different” to each student because so many areas of the FDA take students. Depending on your preceptor, your experience could be completely different than mine. But as a student, you get to immerse yourself in a totally different culture of drug research and public health that is completely different than other experiences at Gatton. You will stay busy, but most work is independent. This means you are given deadlines and expected to meet them, no one is looking over your shoulder to make sure progress is being made. You will meet a TON of people, initiate connections! Make friends, new students are constantly rotating in and out. Explore Washington DC in your off time.