Former PVCC Science Club President Returns

Samantha Aldridge, staff writer

On April 24, Taylor Wright, who works for the biotech company MRIGlobal, talked to students about his career and gave advice about transitioning from PVCC to a four -year school.

Wright prepared a thorough presentation about his job without getting into deep details because of the secrecy of his position. MRIGlobal is an independent organization performing contract research for government and industry. Wright graduated from James Madison University with a degree in biology. His advice to students going into their freshman year of undergraduate studies was helpful considering the amount of students in the auditorium planned to attend a four-year university after PVCC.

Students were not the only ones who showed up to Wright’s talk. PVCC President Dr. Frank Friedman and Dr. Anne Allison were also there to ask questions as well.

Friedman said, “One of the questions I see a lot in students is when will we use this material in the real world?”

Wright nodded in agreement and went said, “The math never goes away. I use it everyday.” He further explained the importance of taking chemistry and microbiology but also completely understanding the material to its core.

“Understanding the math in microbiology and organisms in general is vital.” he says.

Wright then went into talking about the success in undergrad. He suggested joining a research lab, specializing one’s major, using specific apps that make college easier, and looking to professors as advisors.

“I used my professors as advisors because they seemed to know what classes I needed to continue my career,” Wright said. His professors would tell him which ones he should take based on the quality of teaching.

Anne Allison added, “It is very important to know these professors so they can give you great recommendations for applying to jobs.” The students in the auditorium all nodded in agreement.

Wright was asked about job search which he answered explaining how he applied everywhere. He used Indeed.com and applied to many places, but MRIGlobal was the only one to give him a call back.

He said, “I struggled finding a good fit for him but is grateful he was able to be a part of MRIGlobal.”

If anyone is interested in speaking with Taylor Wright about his experience in college or have any questions email Anne Allison at aallison@pvcc.edu.