Program Ambassadors

Meet Christina Vulpitta, from Romeoville, IL.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I went to UW-Madison for my undergrad in pharmacology and worked on a research project that was studying psilocybin. It was the natural next step for me to apply to this program!

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Get involved with your other classmates! Even though this is a virtual program there is still such a sense of community and people are so nice and welcoming.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?

I’ve attended all of the psychedelic symposiums so far and am planning to continue as long as I’m in Madison! Highly recommend making the trip if you aren’t local.

What is your post-program career goal?

I’m planning to apply to pharmacy school after a gap year.

Meet Sarah Minto-Sparks from Dallas, TX.

Why did you decide to join this program? 

I wanted to get into the field and learn more about/involve myself in research, but I knew I did not want to go to med school or be a psychedelic facilitator. PPI was a perfect fit as a program that would help me learn more and connect to more mentors and peers while still having flexibility to change my path within the field.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program? 

Think about why you want to get into the PPI program, but also why PPI would want you and special aspects of your education, skills, passions, etc make you a worthwhile investment from the school’s perspective. Do research on faculty and cite specific professors or things going on at the school that attract you.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?

I go to an open mic weekly and was a radio DJ in undergraduate!

What is your post-program career goal? 

Right now I am interested in preclinical neuroscience research but am open to shifting my focus as I go through this program and learn more about careers and other opportunities!

Meet Owen Wheeler from Jacksonville, FL.

Why did you decide to join this program? 

I joined this program to expand my toolkit for investigating psychoactive substances so that I could hopefully enter into an impactful and meaningful form of work in this field.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program? 

Don’t let a background outside of the physical sciences limit you from at least applying; I came across this program in my first year after obtaining my bachelor’s in sociology, and after seeing how much of the curriculum centered around biochemistry I immediately thought, “This isn’t for me”. 2 years later, I was able to complete the necessary science prerequisites to apply and successfully entered into the capstone program. In short, if you really think it could be for you, try to find a way!

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?

I was featured in a music video during my undergraduate years; find me if you can!

What is your post-program career goal? 

Still figuring that out!

Meet Isabel Bermudez from Dripping Springs, TX.

Why did you decide to join this program?

This program felt like it was the perfect fit! Psychedelic science has always fascinated me and sparked my desire to study neuroscience in undergrad. Originally, I had thought my only option to enter the psychedelic field was through medical school, which felt too restrictive for my interests. I found PPI’s interdisciplinary nature particularly attractive. Not only can I learn more neuroscience (my favorite!), I can do so while building up practical knowledge in legal structures, regulatory practice, and drug development.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Figure out how to structure your time! I recommend working class by class, watching the lecture and doing the assignments in one sitting (or as close to one sitting as possible) before switching to another class. I find the assignments to be easier when the information is fresh in my head, and it’s much easier to stay on top of things.

What is your Post-Program career goal?

I would like to get my PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience/related field and eventually teach!

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share? 

I worked as a budtender at a dispensary for a year! I was taking Cannabinoids in Science and Society at the same time, and it was really cool to see class material translated into real life. I learned a lot in class that I was able to translate for customers.

Meet Madelyn Jones from Columbus, OH.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I have decided to join this program to further my education in an up and coming area of research! Research involving psychoactive pharmaceuticals is ever evolving and having a career history in both clinical and laboratory research in neuroscience, I felt this was a great option!

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Some advice I have for students applying or joining the program include getting to know your professors and fellow classmates, working with your advisors, and finding networking opportunities.

What is your Post-Program career goal?

My post-program career goal is to continue with my education by pursuing a PhD in behavioral neuroscience

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share? 

Outside of my work and my studies, I can be found engaging in hobbies and volunteering! Such pursuits include volunteering as a Black Rock Ranger at Burning Man, storm spotting and aiding with disaster relief, chilling at home with my two cats, spending time with friends, traveling, and hiking.

Meet Faith Haverty from New Haven, CT.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I joined the PPI to explore the facets of healthcare innovation and alternatives. I majored in Neuroscience and Hispanic literatures and cultures in my undergraduate studies at Wesleyan University. I have always been interested in cultural approaches to medicines and my liberal arts studies furthered this interest. I think understanding pharmaceuticals from several dimensions- cultural, societal, historical, scientific- is incredibly important for increasing equitable access to therapeutics and this program helps equip professionals with the tools they need to address the multi-faceted challenges that will arise with further innovation.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

I hesitated when applying for this program because I wasn’t sure about the time commitment and if I’d be able to travel and work while completing my degree. My advice would be to just go for it! This program is flexible and designed for working professionals. In fact, several of my classmates are able to directly apply their current work to the discussions in our classes, which helps everyone understand the diverse perspectives within this field and how they can contribute to the future of the psychedelic industry. 

What is your Post-Program career goal?

I’m currently job-searching and hoping to enter into policy and advocacy for the psychedelic therapeutics.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share? 

I was a ski instructor in Aspen, CO for my first 2 years out of college, which was incredibly fun!

Meet Lauren Sweezey from Auburn, AL.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I really enjoyed my class “Drugs and the Brain” that I took while doing my undergrad degree in neuroscience. I also saw how diverse and interesting the classes were for this program and knew I wouldn’t get bored of it.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Do not be afraid to ask questions and get to know your professors. They love to talk about their chosen subject and will be a valuable learning resource.

What is your Post-Program career goal?

I am currently looking into becoming a patent examiner for the USPTO. I am still exploring all my potential career options.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share? 

My dog and I have the same birthday!

Meet Stephanie Wong from Bellevue, WA.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I decided to join this program because I have always been passionate about public health, pharmacology, and mental health. Throughout my life, I’ve cared deeply about therapy accessibility, harm reduction, and mental health equity, particularly for underserved communities. This program perfectly aligns with my personal and professional interests, blending evidence-based innovation with my dedication to healthcare treatment and mental health advocacy. It offers a unique opportunity to explore psychedelic-assisted therapies, which align with my values and goals.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Don’t be afraid to engage with peers and professors, even in an online program—it helps to foster a sense of community. Everyone in the program comes from unique backgrounds, so ask questions and connect with people. Also, apply for any scholarships recommended to you, as the advisors and faculty truly want to support you!

What is your Post-Program career goal?

My career goals include advocating for harm reduction, addiction medicine, and psychedelic-assisted therapy integration. I want to focus on healthcare for women and children, mental health equity, and public health outreach, serving as an educational liaison between the psychoactive medical community and the general public to improve access and understanding.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?

I volunteer at a dog rescue where Chris Pine and Max Greenfield (Schmidt from New Girl!!) adopted their dogs. Living in Los Angeles, I have been learning Spanish with a professor from Guatemala to better connect with my community. Outside of school and work, I enjoy spending time with my dog Kiwi, going camping, attending live music events, thrifting vintage furniture, and playing board games.

Meet Srujana Mosalikanti, from Hyderabad, India.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I was really piqued by the idea of exploring how pharmaceutical / biotech industries function. The ADD program seemed like a perfect program for transitioning from academics to industry. The program is really flexible and interesting; it provides students with practical, hands-on experience and exposure to various aspects of drug development, which is highly valuable in a career in pharmaceutical / biotech industries. Also, mentorship from professors and industry experts who can offer guidance and support is another reason I chose to join ADD.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Try not to be too hard on yourself to complete the deliverables of any course. Stay updated about the deadlines and assignment due dates. Stay in touch with people enrolled in the program and don’t hesitate to reach out to program coordinators or anyone who you think might help you! (Stephanie, Lindy, and Almira are soooo helpful and sweet!)

What is your post-program career goal?

I want to obtain a position in well known Pharma/Biotech industries in the US, after i pass out with the ADD degree from UW to kick start my career!

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?

I play sports like badminton, cricket, table tennis, etc. I love spending time to cook food and experiment with new recipes.

Meet Ahila Yegappan, from Trichy, India.

Why did you decide to join this program? I decided to join this program because I wanted to advance my career in the pharmaceutical industry by gaining specialized knowledge and practical skills in drug development. This program offers a blend of coursework in multiple disciplines like drug development and its lifecycle management, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, quality systems, project management and hands-on experience, which will help me understand the entire drug development process, from discovery to regulatory approval.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Engage actively with your peers and instructors. Building connections is valuable even in a remote setting. Tailor the coursework to align with your career goals. Stay organized and keep track of deadlines. Balancing coursework with other commitments can be challenging, but planning ahead and reaching out for support when needed will set you up for success.

What is your post-program career goal?

 I aim to work in the Clinical trial and drug development Operations and Management sector in a Pharma company.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?

 I like to read murder mystery novels. My favorite authors are Agatha Christie and James Patterson. I love to cook and bake.

Meet Le An, from Shenyang China.

Why did you decide to join this program?

I would like to advocate for the program to have more working professional to take the opportunity for educational advancement.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program?

Being able to work virtually and have flexibility is essential.

What is your post-program career goal?

Career advancement in my current role in a Pharm Company.