Robert Plenge, EVP, Chief Research Officer at Bristol Myers Squibb shared a post on LinkedIn:
“A recent conversation with our Bristol Myers Squibb summer interns reminded me of something I wish I had been told earlier in my career:
You don’t need to have everything figured out.
When I was younger, I had a clear plan for my future. Then one unexpected experience in a research lab changed the direction of my life. Looking back, the most important decisions I made weren’t based on certainty. They were based on curiosity, purpose, and a willingness to learn.
That’s why I often encourage early-career scientists to hold their ‘why’ tightly and their ‘how’ loosely.
Know what motivates you. Stay grounded in your values. But be open to opportunities, experiences, and paths you never expected.
I see that mindset in the interns I’ve had the privilege of meeting this summer. Their questions challenged assumptions, sparked discussion, and reminded me why investing in future scientific leaders is so important.
On National Intern Day, I’m grateful for our interns and co-ops, as well as the many colleagues who mentor and support them every day. The future of science is in good hands.
If you’d like to read more about our conversation, you can find a link in the comments.”
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