Emma's Product Compliance Internship with Stephar UK -- Week 1

Having just completed one week of my internship at Stephar (UK) Ltd I thought it was high time to reflect and let you all you interested ones know how it’s going.

Firstly there is something I must confess. I didn’t go to UEA! Phew. That feels a lot better. I went to sunny Brighton. Brighton has a lot going for itself; a pub on every street corner, a Taj Mahal imitation, and the Green Party. However it does not have sandy beaches, castles or the UEA Graduate Internship programme! And this is why I am in Great Yarmouth right now, not Brighton.

I am interning at Stephar (UK) Ltd. They are a pharmaceutical supplier, who also import and repackage products from Europe. It is on quite a large site in Great Yarmouth, where in its glory days employed over sixty, now there is a dedicated team of around fifteen. Although there are a few empty rooms around the place, and it is chilly in the production areas, I have been made very welcome here by the boss and team.

I have been exposed to an interesting and essential side of the business; liaising with the Medicines and Healthcare Regulations Agency. This week I have initiated the submissions of three medicine information packs for review. I have been taught how to handle the MHRA portal, where all UK companies with a medicinal licence go to apply for new licences, renewals, amendments and so on. I have also been entrusted with the organisation of the current licenses, and ensuring all information and literature is up to date.

I am so pleased that I got this opportunity. I feel very settled, comfortable and respected here. The work and responsibility I have is of a much higher calibre than any temping job and I am looking forward to what next week may bring!