Maria Clara Lacerda - Northeastern University

Boston, a city pulsating with innovation and cultural vibrancy, has become the canvas for a transformative chapter in my life this past semester. Amidst historic streets and modern skyscrapers, I've discovered not just an academic haven but a thriving community that consistently exposes me to new perspectives and opportunities. This past semester I delved into a diverse array of classes, shaping my current academic and personal landscape. In the financial realm, engaging in a financial management class gave me valuable insights into managing monetary resources and making informed decisions. Simultaneously, a quantitative analysis class equipped me with analytical tools, enhancing my ability to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions. On the psychology side, taking a personality class added a unique dimension, fostering self-discovery and enhancing my understanding of human behavior in various contexts, enriching not only personal relationships but also broadening my perspective on other relationships. By immersing myself in a blend of data science and business classes, my professional trajectory now points towards a career in the biotech industry. The prospect of applying my skills at the intersection of business and technology is thrilling, and I'm particularly excited about contributing to the dynamic landscape of the biopharmaceutical sector. With these aspirations in mind, I embarked on a search for a co-op that encapsulates these facets. Fortunately, I secured the opportunity to co-op this semester at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, a groundbreaking biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of RNA interference therapeutics for genetically defined diseases. I'm immensely thankful for the opportunity to attend Northeastern University in Boston, a journey made possible with the support of MVYouth. I plan to seize every opportunity and eagerly anticipate the promising future that lies ahead.