Summer Internships 

During the duration of this internship with the Department of Natural Resources I had the opportunity to live many professional experiences in the town of Cabo Rojo. From general tasks such as observation, visiting various coastal systems such as some lagoons, dry forests, mangroves and salt marshes. I visited the 8 different study areas on the coast of Cabo Rojo: Finca Altamira, Pitahaya Forest and Dirty Bay. As well as specific tasks such as censusing the eggs of the Puerto Rican Ladybird (Agelaius xanthomus) which is in danger of extinction and I was also able to observe it in different stages of development from chicks to adults. I learned firsthand the efforts to keep this species alive. I was able to learn about the differences between the eggs of different birds. Although my work was focused on this species at the end I had the opportunity to learn about the process of visiting fishermen to measure, weigh and count the catches, a very fascinating experience. With both the catches and the eggs I was tasked with taking the data for later reporting. During this time I was accompanied by DNER staff who spoke to me about their extensive experience in their projects as well as shared with students at different stages of their academic development from other institutions. My time here was very valuable and I learned many things in an area of biology that is not very common.

From July 31 to August 3, 2023 I had the opportunity to get to know the facilities of AbbVie Pharmaceutical Ltd (APL) and AbbVie Biothecnology Ltd (ABL). During this time I was able to meet different people and explore the two facilities where I learned that APL only produces drugs in tablet form and ABL produces drugs in injection form. 

On July 31 and August 1 I was at APL. The first day I was in the manufacturing area where I was able to observe the machinery used for the production of drugs such as Synthroid.  One of the things I learned that day is that the higher the capsule number the smaller the capsule size. For example capsule 00 has a larger size than capsule 2 and they are not manufactured at AbbVie, they buy them. I also had the opportunity to meet the APL pharmacist and was able to talk with some of the staff. With them I was able to further educate myself about this profession. The second day at APL I was in the laboratory area, specifically in the Analytical Laboratory. There I was able to see the instruments used to perform the necessary tests of the products. The test I was able to observe was the Synthoid drug dissolution test; which is performed following predetermined standards. Ėsto caught my attention, and also the opportunity I had to talk with the pharmacist.  

From August 2 to 3 I visited ABL's facilities. On August 2 I was in the Analytical laboratories where I observed different processes that are carried out to monitor the drugs that are already on the market. They make sure that the components used in the manufacture of the drugs are in good condition. One of the tests I observed was the verification of particles in the injections. The second day I was in the manufacturing area. There I had an incredible experience of being able to observe from the outside and inside the processes that are carried out for the creation of medicines. Processes for the creation of medicines. I also had the opportunity to talk to another pharmacist. What I most enjoyed at ABL was having the opportunity to observe various processes in the laboratory and to see up close how various drugs are made.  

The experience I had at AbbVie was a rewarding one, in which I was able to acquire a lot of knowledge. At abbvie I not only had the opportunity to see some of the work that is done, but I also met many kind people, professionals committed to the work they do and who are passionate about what they do. Incredible human beings who made me feel welcome and answered all my questions with extensive knowledge but at the same time in a simple way so that I could understand everything.This experience gave me the opportunity to learn about one of the areas of the profession I wish to study; Pharmacy. Having a dialogue with two pharmacists filled me with great satisfaction since I was able to enter the world of pharmacy and learn about the opportunities it offers.  I am grateful for the opportunity provided and with each of the people who welcomed me in the facilities and made this experience full of knowledge and unforgettable experiences.