I am a student at the University of Notre Dame studying Neuroscience and Behavior with a minor in Science and Patient Advocacy. Through the Patient Advocacy Initiative and associated minor, I received an internship at Horizon Therapeutics. In my role as a Patient Advocacy intern, I have the opportunity to explore the programs currently available to patients, identify areas where additional support may be needed, brainstorm new and innovative solutions to fill unmet needs and participate in impactful patient advocacy events.
In addition to helping patients, one of my favorite things about interning at Horizon is the opportunity to meet, network and collaborate alongside colleagues of all levels and from all parts of the organization. I especially love hearing about their different roles and career journeys as it pertains to the broader rare disease community.
One thing that has become abundantly clear to me through these personal interactions is that Horizon truly puts the patient at the center of everything. As such, being a patient advocate with Horizon is enormously fulfilling – both professionally and personally. Being able to witness the real-life impact Horizon’s programs have on patients validates to me that patient advocacy is not only valuable but necessary. Necessary for the mental, physical and social welfare of patients, families and care partners.