Dawn Nguyen has spent over 30 years in the medical device industry. She received an Associate of Applied Science in Electronic Engineering Technology from ITT Technical Institute, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and a Biomedical Regulatory Affairs Certificate from the University of Washington. 

Based on her former manager’s recommendation, Nguyen chose to start her M.S. in Pharmacy with an emphasis in Regulatory Sciences in the International Biomedical Regulatory Sciences Program at UGA. Nguyen works full-time and enrolled in an online program because of the convenience and flexibility it provides.

“This is my second online degree, and it has made all the difference being able to study and attend recorded lectures from home. I live in the Seattle area and would not have been able to attend UGA if this program had not been online,” said Nguyen.

Nguyen believes the professors to be the most interesting aspect of the online IBRS program. “I enjoyed learning from the professors who have varied and interesting backgrounds and a lot of experience to draw from. Because my background is in medical devices, I found learning about the pharmaceutical industry and regulations to be very interesting,” said Nguyen.

For anyone interested in taking online courses, Nguyen suggests staying organized. 

“Stay on top of your assignments and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The instructors are there to help you learn and succeed. Do your very best. Know your own learning style and figure out a system of study and doing your homework that works for you and use it consistently — you will thank yourself many times over the course of the program,” said Nguyen.

Nguyen claims that the program has taught her about the regulations that directly pertain to her job; she is already applying her new knowledge in her role as a Director of Quality at a small medical combination product company. 

Nguyen hopes to continue to move up and grow in her career, and one day become an expert in her field. She also hopes to free up some time in her schedule for her personal interests.

“Life is short and this past year of the pandemic has opened my eyes to the value of my time  our collective time on this planet, how limited it really is, and how fragile life is,” said Nguyen.