Meet CHIP alum Disha Puthran! Disha is a fall 2023 graduate and recently secured a new position at Clinical Architecture as a Clinical Informaticist. Read more about Disha and her recommendations for the internship and job search.
Tell us more about what you will be doing as Clinical Informaticist with Clinical Architecture. What are you most excited about?
As a Clinical Informaticist II, I will be involved in mapping healthcare terminologies, addressing interoperability challenges, and resolving data quality issues to enhance Clinical Architecture's software products. I'm particularly excited to apply and further develop the concepts I've learned during my Master’s in Biomedical and Health Informatics. This role will allow me to leverage my expertise in health information systems, data management, and clinical informatics to positively impact healthcare outcomes.
How did you secure the position? Any strategies that worked particularly well for you?
My approach typically involves tailoring my resume to closely match the job description, ensuring that all relevant skills and keywords are emphasized. Additionally, I often connect with hiring managers on LinkedIn or send a thoughtful cold email after applying for a position to enhance my chances of being selected for an initial screening or interview.
I initially applied for a Product Analyst position at Clinical Architecture and sought a referral from a friend, which helped me secure an interview. After the first-round interview, I realized that my experience didn't fully align with the specific requirements for that role. However, the HR team reached out to inform me about a Clinical Informaticist position that was not yet open but would soon be available. They felt it was a better fit for my background, and I immediately informed the HR team about my interest. After completing all the interview rounds, I was ultimately offered the position.
Any advice for securing an internship and position after graduation for our current MPS BMHI students?
Having a real-office internship is crucial for gaining a solid understanding of the job market and exploring different types of roles. I strongly recommend that students start their search for internship opportunities from the very first day of their master’s program. This proactive approach will help them master the application process and increase their chances of securing a valuable internship by the summer term.
Many organizations offer summer internship programs that are carefully designed to help students acclimate to a real-world office environment. Securing multiple positions during your master’s program—whether as a research assistant, teaching assistant, or through internships—is crucial for significantly enhancing your experience and employability. Companies often value how you’ve applied your skills in real-world settings over simply learning them through coursework. These roles provide you with practical experience, allowing you to demonstrate your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real challenges, which is highly sought after by employers.
Here are some effective strategies for successfully finding internship positions:
- Network Actively: Engage with professionals in the industry through LinkedIn, webinars, and conferences. Networking can often lead to valuable opportunities.
- Tailor Applications: Customize resumes and cover letters for each job application, emphasizing relevant skills and using industry-specific keywords.
- Leverage School Resources: Take advantage of the school’s career services and alumni network to explore job and internship opportunities.
- Seek Referrals: Start by building strong relationships with professionals in your field and finding a mentor who can guide you in your career. Whenever possible, seek referrals from your connections within the company to enhance your chances of landing an interview.
- Gain Experience: Pursue internships or volunteer opportunities to build practical experience making yourself a stronger candidate.
