Adesola Obunge
Adesola describes giving a presentation about careers in the pharmaceutical industry to two year groups at Walthamstow Academy.
Why did you decide to become an Ambassador?
To be able to share knowledge of my personal experiences and love of science to school children
On average, how much time do you commit to STEM Ambassador activities?
1 to 2 activities per year
Describe the latest activity you were involved in:
UK National Science & Engineering Week, March 2009
I gave 2 presentations at Walthamstow Academy, London to two different age groups:
Year 7 (11-12 years old)
Year 11 (15-16 years old)
I discussed what I do on a day to day basis: pharmaceutical regulatory affairs and drug development.
What was your role in this activity? What were you responsible for?
I prepared the presentation for the event, which involved contacting the Royal Society of Chemistry and The Association of British Pharmaceutical Industries in order to obtain education materials such as wall posters, careers information packs, "A day in the life of" articles and chemistry magazines to distribute amongst the students.
What do you feel were the positive outcomes for the pupils and teaching staff?
They gained a better understanding of drug development worldwide e.g. how a scientist discovers a new medicinal molecule and what happens to get it through to final use in the market in all countries.
I really hope they benefitted from a face to face, down-to-earth discussion from a real-life scientist!
What do you feel were the positive outcomes for yourself?
The thought that my prescence has helped some of the students define a bit better what choices they would like to take, is a really rewarding feeling.
Do you have any tips for future STEM Ambassadors?
Just be honest and try to engage with as many questions as you can and try to pose some to them as well!
