Nicole Gallagher – BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development

Name: Nicole Gallagher

From: Sligo

School: Mercy College Sligo & Coola PPS

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choosing your course:

Growing up, I always thought I would move away from home and attend university somewhere far from home. My career aspirations changed more times than I can remember—I went from wanting to become a vet, to a dermatologist, to a dentist. I even had the opportunity to shadow an oral surgeon, so my decisions weren’t just based on whims! While I liked the idea of each profession, none of them resonated with me deeply.

In 5th year, I attended an open day at ATU with my school and happened to sit in on a talk by Colin Fowley about his experience in the pharmaceutical industry. I was instantly hooked! It was the first time I had heard about a course and felt genuinely interested in learning more. I loved the idea that the degree would open up so many options for me. Although I was still considering moving away, and even received a Pharmacy offer through UCAS, the lockdown made me realize that moving away didn’t make sense when the perfect course was right on my doorstep. So, I put Pharmaceutical Science as my only choice on the CAO and decided that this was the path for me.

Tell us why you chose IT Sligo / ATU Sligo:

The course itself was the deciding factor for me—it seemed like the possibilities were endless. Even if I wanted to explore other options later, I could use this degree as a stepping stone to various other fields. The location is also ideal, as we are surrounded by well-known multinational pharmaceutical companies. ATU Sligo has strong relationships with companies like AbbVie, which are just a stone’s throw away—perfect for securing internships and getting a foot on the corporate ladder. The coursework is very hands-on, and my lecturers all have real industry experience, which has positively influenced the course design. Smaller class sizes compared to larger universities, and the opportunity to use most of the lab equipment ourselves, definitely help graduates stand out when starting their careers.

What do you like about life in Sligo (people, food, accommodation, scenery, etc.)?

There is so much to see and do in Sligo. From exploring beaches and taking sea swimming lessons to visiting Strandhill Sunday markets, Gleniff Horseshoe, Knocknarea, and the Caves of Keash, there’s never a dull moment. There are also plenty of activities like golf, driving ranges, kickboxing, horseback riding, and even a scuba diving club at the college. If you can think of it, you can probably do it here—and if not, you’ll find plenty of people willing to help you set it up! And of course, Sligo has some fantastic food spots too.

What advice would you give to a student thinking about coming to Sligo?

Explore! Don’t be afraid to try new things and meet new people.

What specifically about the course do you particularly enjoy?

I appreciate the balance between theory and practical work. The coursework ties together very well, and you reinforce what you’ve learned in class through lab work. The small class sizes help strengthen the student-lecturer relationship, and I always felt comfortable asking questions, whether they were about a specific module or my future career. The API Synthesis and Drug Formulation Labs were conducted in a GMP-simulated environment, where we were challenged to prepare all the relevant industry documentation. These experiences made the legislation and quality modules come alive, turning abstract concepts into understandable and practical knowledge.

If you were speaking with a first-year student about to start your course, what advice/information would you give them?

Don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to people—we’re all in the same boat, just trying to figure things out, and most people are more than happy to chat. College is the best time to build your networking skills, so if something interests you, ask about it! Don’t hesitate to connect with people who have careers you’re interested in and ask them about their journey and what that career path might look like.

If you are involved in sports, volunteering, working, or have other passions you pursue outside of your academic life, can you tell us about that? Especially mention any teams, clubs, or awards.

I’m very passionate about horses (some would say horse-mad), and I was fortunate to receive a sports scholarship at ATU for show jumping. This scholarship was a massive help in balancing my studies, my horses, and my internship during 3rd and 4th year. I have some lovely young horses who are just starting their careers, and I’m working with them alongside my more experienced jumping horse, Buddy. Last year, I was a member of the Showjumping Ireland Young Rider Academy.

What are your plans after graduating and any long-term goals you are aiming for?

I completed a quality co-operative internship at AbbVie from the end of 3rd year to the end of 4th year, and I currently work as a Quality Control Lab Analyst. I’m excited to start my first rotation in their 3-year TDP Graduate program in September. I’m forever grateful for the experiences I’ve had and the people I’ve met during my time at ATU, all of which have helped set me up for these opportunities!

Learn more about the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Science with Drug Development