What drew you to applying for an internship at Pacific Edge?

I was nearing the end of my Bachelor’s degree and preparing to begin my Honours research year when I became interested in understanding what happens beyond the laboratory. I wanted to learn how research was developed and evaluated through clinical trials before being translated into clinical practice and patient care. Although my undergraduate studies had given me some knowledge regarding conducting research, I had not yet had the opportunity to see how scientific findings move through this process in a real-world healthcare setting. The internship with Pacific Edge’s Clinical team stood out to me as an amazing opportunity to bridge this gap, apply my academic knowledge in a practical environment, and learn from professionals involved in translating research into clinical outcomes.

What did you enjoy most about the internship?

What I enjoyed most about the internship was the people. It was a privilege to work alongside a team with such a wealth of knowledge, but what stood out most was how kind, approachable, and willing everyone was to share that knowledge. I always felt comfortable asking questions and was given the support and space to learn, which made the experience incredibly rewarding.

My group of interns was also a highlight; we learnt a lot together, had plenty of laughs, and somehow managed to become a group of friends who are still close today. I may be biased, but I think we were Pacific Edge’s best intern cohort yet.

What aspect of the internship did you find most useful?

Going into my Honours research year, understanding the management, documentation, and legislation involved in running clinical trials was invaluable. These were areas that I did not get much exposure to during my undergraduate degree, so it was interesting to see the amount of planning and organisation that happens behind the scenes. The internship helped me appreciate that translating research into clinical practice involves much more than generating results; it also requires careful oversight, clear documentation, and compliance with the relevant regulations. This gave me a broader understanding of the research process and knowledge that I could carry into my Honours year.

What do you love most about the Dunedin lifestyle now that you’ve nearly finished university?

Dunedin offers a great balance of culture and natural beauty. Its vibrant student community creates plenty of opportunities to meet talented and genuine people, while the city’s cafés, restaurants, and cultural events provide lots to explore outside of university. Dunedin is also surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it an ideal place for anyone who enjoys a good beach, a hike, or spending time outdoors. I particularly enjoy how easy it is to experience both the cultural side of the city and the natural beauty right on its doorstep.

Any general advice or tips for aspiring interns?

Apply, even if you are not sure that your background aligns perfectly with the role. I have found that you do not need to know everything before you begin; what matters is being willing to learn, ask questions, and make the most of the opportunities around you. An internship is a chance to grow both professionally and personally, so do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone or put your hand up for something new. You may surprise yourself with what you are capable of, and the experience, connections, and confidence you gain can stay with you well beyond the internship.

My second piece of advice would be to make the most of the people around you. Ask questions, start conversations, and take every opportunity to learn from the team, even if something seems outside your original area of interest. I found that people were very willing to share their knowledge and being open and curious made it much easier to learn and feel involved. I would also encourage aspiring interns to enjoy the experience and get to know the other interns, as the friendships and connections you make can be just as valuable as the skills you develop.