Alumni Profile
Cultivating a student’s interest in people management
Ashley Hallfrisch (MS ‘22) began the program as a bench scientist without experience managing people and discovered an interest in people management thanks to the mentorship she received through the program.
Hallfrisch has worked for the contract manufacturing company Catalent Pharma Solutions for the past eight years, receiving annual leadership promotions within the organization. Her roles have included Quality Assurance Assistant and Laboratory Associate in the Analytical Development team. Ashley has consistently been promoted from Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, Senior Associate Scientist, and now full Scientist in Analytical Development.
“I think one of the faculty that has had a major impact on my professional development was Michelle Venturini,” says Hallfrisch. “Her class on effective management and professional development made me realize that I would like to be a people manager.”
“I learned what it means to be someone’s manager, giving and receiving useful feedback, how and when to use different management styles, and all of the interpersonal skills required to be successful in that type of leadership role.”
Venturini teaches Professional Development and Effective Management in the M.S. in Biotech program, which began as a workshop and evolved into a required course that focuses on managing people with compassion and understanding.
“Management and leadership skills are differentiators in the workplace, but they are often misunderstood as skills that don’t apply, unless your career goals include a management position,” says Venturini. “In reality, everyone leads, whether they recognize it or not.”
“It has been rewarding to share my experience with students in the M.S. in Biotechnology Program. That moment when students discover that there are leadership tools as tangible as their lab bench is indescribable,” notes Venturini. “I also enjoy working with students one-on-one to improve their resumes and discuss career goals. I’m grateful that the program recognizes the importance of graduating students who have exposure to these critical topics.”
Ashley’s career continues to thrive at Catalent where she has become a recognized leader who colleagues turn to for guidance, and support. She credits the M.S. in Biotechnology Program for providing her with the insight required to grow beyond bench science and to find the confidence needed to lead others in their own career development.
