INTERVIEW WITH ALESSANDRO PIGA
- HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR INTERNSHIP? DID HDM HELP?
I discovered the internship while searching in the Johnson & Johnson group website for open positions. With Professor Jansen’s help, I was able to complete my application and figure out which company might be the best fit for me. However, to find the best match for my interests, I had to search extensively on my own without any particular help from HdM.
- WHAT WAS THE INTERVIEW PROCESS LIKE IN THE COMPANY?
I was first invited to a digital interview, during which I had to answer some pre-recorded questions on the computer. All of the questions were quite general, but mainly concerned my past work experience and the strengths that would help me succeed at work. After a couple of weeks, I have been invited to a second interview with two packaging engineers from the company. During this interview, they tested my knowledge of packaging materials and asked me some behavioral questions. The behavioral questions consisted of a series of imaginary problems that could occur in the work environment; then I had to explain how I would handle these complications.
- HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORKING FOR DEPUY SYNTHES?
Overall, I really enjoyed working for the company. The learning experience was fantastic and I was finally able to contribute to the development of something truly impactful. During my time there, I was allowed to support multiple pillars of the company’s packaging department, allowing me to get a 360° view of the medical device packaging development workflow. In addition, I was able to work independently on some topics of my interest. All this is mixed in an international and pleasant working environment with supportive colleagues.
- WHAT NEW SKILLS DID YOU LEARN?
By having the opportunity to carry out projects independently, I was able to improve my project management skills considerably. I have also learnt how to communicate professionally in an international organization and how to cooperate with suppliers during the packaging development process. In addition, I got to know how to work in a GMP-compliant laboratory and learned how to collect information correctly and present it in a clear and organized way.
- DID THE COMPANY OFFER YOU CONSISTENT FEEDBACK THROUGHOUT YOUR INTERNSHIP?
Yes, I was assigned a tutor who gave me feedback on my work every week. Moreover, all the people there were always willing to answer any questions or clarify any doubts I had at any time.
- WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY?
My favorite part was probably the design phase of any new packaging system. I found it very interesting and fun to have to analyze the characteristics of the products and the packaging components to find a suitable packaging solution. This process involved also collaboration and discussion with suppliers, which I also enjoyed. And finally, I can say it was very rewarding and exciting to see the configuration you came up with passing the validation tests.
- HOW DID YOUR INTERNSHIP RELATE TO THE FIELD YOU ARE STUDYING IN?
The internship was not so much about printing, but more about project management and product development. Nevertheless, the knowledge of printing technologies was a very important asset for me, as I was often in contact with packaging printing companies. As a product manager, it is very important to know how things work to have a smoother collaboration with suppliers. In my case, knowledge of paper grades, board types, and compatible printing technologies was particularly useful.
- WHAT KIND OF TASKS DID YOU DO?
During my internship, I was assigned various types of tasks to perform. Usually, I would analyze components and packaging systems to find a compliant solution for sterile or non-sterile medical devices. Other times, I would work on packaging documentation to ensure the correct implementation of a packaging system in the market. I would also support the packaging validation tests in the laboratory and prepare the related reports. And many other types of assignments.
- DID YOU CONSIDER THE COMPANY AS A FUTURE EMPLOYER AFTER YOU GRADUATE?
Definitely, I will keep the company as an option. During my work experience, I have encountered a pleasant working environment as well as challenging tasks. However, I am not so sure that I would like to do this job for an extended period. The world of medical device packaging leaves little room for creativity, and knowing me, this might make me lose my initial interest in the long run.
- WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO START WORKING FULL TIME INSTEAD OF STUDYING FULL TIME? WAS IT EASY OR DIFFUCULT TO ADAPT?
I would say it was quite easy for me. It wasn’t my first time working as a full-timer and this may have contributed to my quick adaptation. I was also lucky enough to be working in a relaxed environment on something I liked; this made everything much easier. Working full-time let me focus on a wide range of interrelated topics, which was great for learning. Also, the work is much more result-oriented rather than process-oriented, which is personally more stimulating.