Interview With Hardeep – I think Biotechnology MS, PSM thing is stupid

Part 2 of Interview with Hardeep continue here today. You can read Part 1 – Why Keck Graduate Institute for Biotechnology

What is your thoughts on Biotech Job market for students graduating with Masters in Biotechnology

Job Market is definitely tight right now. However, there are always ways to get a job. You need to network with people early and not expect to get a job based on your resume or a big brand. You need to contact right people at the right time. Getting a job is a mix of talent and luck. I can’t highlight the importance of Networking anymore. It is indispensable as I see it.

How easy is to find internship during Summer?

It is not as difficult to find a job but it is almost up there. You need to do exactly the same thing. Get good grades, network a lot, sell yourself well, start early, brush up your interview skills, make a good resume and leave rest on the luck.

Cost of living at KGI

My school is one of the most expensive schools in US for the graduation simply because of the business concentration, California and the money spend on the intense coursework. The fee is about $80k for 2 years (could have increased now) but everyone gets some sort of scholarship.

What are the chances of getting Scholarship?

Chances of getting a scholarship are 100%. Everyone gets it but the amount varies. It varies from 15k – 50k. I get 50% scholarship which was the highest at that point. Getting into KGI is not tough but getting high scholarship is slightly tricky. Admission process comprises of some interviews and webinars or something. To support the education, KGI also provides an internal loan at 7-8% (way cheaper than india) and you don’t need any one to sponsor you, you just need to be KGIian.

I’m confused between MS in Biotechnology and PSM in Biotechnology, I don’t have work experience, so what would you suggest me?

I think this MS, PSM thing is stupid. There is nothing like PSM thing in most colleges. Employers do not care what degree you have taken, they look at your skills. KGI is one of the first to have started PSM. Some others (Big colleges – don’t want to disclose them) followed and students are struggling. KGI is into business and is not a good place for researchers. However, Pennstate and UPENN are PSMs too but people still get research based jobs (Most of them).

To cut it short, if you are research lover, PSM might not suit you. Look for places which are at situated where there is industry. For e.g NEU is not a high ranked university but since it is in Boston, they have co-op program and most people get placed in some industry. USC takes so many people but has a big brand and is in California so is another low hanging fruit. Some high brands in Texas or Utah might give you a good name on the resume but with less industry around might make you sweat harder to get something in pocket.

Its all about work SMART, party harder!!!

How did Happy Schools Blog help you?

Happy Schools Blog answered a lot of questions I had at that time (2 years back). Nonetheless, I was looking for some answers that blog did not have since it was not centered towards life sciences to a large extent but now I see it has improved a lot in that regard. The Blog is a lot more organized and professional. It has a lot of authentic information on different things required by you. In addition, I can see a lot of student interviews which is good as it gives you a student perspective on various issues. The keeper of the blog is genuine in his efforts and students should try to use it for their benefits. For the benefit of the students and the blog (yes, it needs you too ), feel free to direct other kids. I wish Happy Schools good luck and would be happy to contribute more in future.

Related posts:

1. Interview with Hardeep – Why Keck Graduate Institute?
2. MS or PSM in Biotechnology?
3. PSM or PhD in Biotechnology US or MBA in India?
4. Adi’s Biotechnology Job Search and Interview Experience – Part 1
5. Adi – Biotechnology Interview Experience Part 3