Olivia Varjonen: In the Phase1 trainee programme my skills were valued and I got to have inspiring discussions with experienced colleagues

I am Olivia, a recent Master of Science in Economics and Business Administration graduate from the University of Jyväskylä. I applied for Orion’s Phase1 programme in the spring because I was interested in the networking and mentoring opportunities offered by the organisation, in addition to gaining work experience. It was a positive surprise when I was accepted as a Phase1 trainee in Orion's Consumer Health Business organisation. 

At business school my main subject was marketing, but I have always been interested in business development too. This position has been perfect in terms of the business development side. As soon as I started at Orion, I joined the new growth project as a project coordinator and this gave me an opportunity to participate and contribute to a wide range of workshops and meetings in different areas of the project. For example, I have participated in the development of the brand, product portfolio and content marketing. It has been great to be included from the start, and my ideas and suggestions have been appreciated in the same way as those of more experienced colleagues.

In addition to project coordination, I have been given other responsibilities in Orion’s Consumer Health Business. My work has been pleasantly independent, and my supervisor and colleagues have made sure that help is always available and that I am not left to think things through on my own. Over the summer, it has been great to see that you don't need to know everything about the pharmaceutical industry straight away. We have been given time to learn, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. I've also had inspiring discussions with more experienced colleagues about career development and salary, for example.

Other trainees are the highlight of the programme

In addition to interesting work projects, the Phase1 programme includes small-group mentoring meetings several times during the summer and more relaxed get-togethers with other Phase1 trainees. One example is the wonderful day that we spent at Tuohilampi, swimming and enjoying the sauna. I was mentored by Orion's Vice President of Communications, which has given me an amazing opportunity to exchange ideas on career matters with an experienced expert. 

Without a doubt, the best thing about the Phase1 programme has been the other summer employees. We frequently have lunch together and otherwise spend time on coffee breaks and enjoying after-work activities. I’ve found wonderful people who have brightened my working days and with whom I have been able to share my achievements and challenges with over the summer. I firmly believe that Orion’s culture and working atmosphere are the best, and the pleasant office premises and delicious dishes at the lunch restaurant ensure everyone is happy at work. 

My main tip for future Phase1 trainees is to network with your colleagues and other trainees. I found that at Orion it is easy to get to know other employees across organisation and team borders. Networking with Orion's experts in different fields also helps you to understand the pharmaceutical industry as a whole, and it's nice that there is always someone in the coffee room to chat to about your day. 

Best wishes, 

Olivia