Program Ambassadors

Meet Christina Vulpitta, from Romeoville, Illinois.

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 Gabriel Wurzel from Avon, Connecticut.

Why did you decide to join this program? I became interested in this program because I was curious to learn more about the science of psychedelics and how they might play a role in general

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program? This program attracts students with so many different educational, professional and cultural backgrounds. Even though the program is remote, make an effort to connect and learn from your classmates. It’s a great community.

What is your Post-Program career goal? I am interested in promoting the safe use of psychedelics through education and harm reduction programs.

Meet Emma Bogue, from Houston, Texas.

Why did you decide to join this program? To empower others to feel confident when joining this amazing program.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program? Keep up-to-date on news in the field of psychedelics. In your application, mention if you have any specific research interests and what drew you to this program.

Any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share? I studied Marketing and Sales in undergrad, so I made a big transition to this program!

What is your post-program career goal? To help increase accessibility to psychedelic therapies.

Meet Faith Haverty from New Haven, Connecticut.

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 Zach Miller, from Zionsville, Indiana.

Zach graduated Summer 2022 from the Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Applied Drug Development program. Zach is a scientist with passion for pharmaceutical innovation that advances healthcare and improves lives. Zach currently works as a Scientist at ThermoFisher scientific. Zach’s “internship” project was related to generic product development for inhalation therapies.

What advice do you have for students applying or joining the program? Take time to mold the coursework toward your goals and build connections with your peers/instructors. There is extensive industry knowledge and experience available. This will help you achieve success both in the program and beyond!

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!)

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.

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!

Meet Karthik Kumar Vujjini, from Hyderabad, India.

Why did you decide to join this program?

To become a trained professional in the Pharma field.

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

If you’re looking for advanced study in the pharmaceutical sciences this course is the best.

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

I like to network and share about culture and languages.

What is your post-program career goal?

To become a clinical researcher manager or higher professional in the pharmaceutical industry.

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.