Starting a new job is always daunting, especially when it’s your first after graduation. But imagine doing this in a pandemic and joining a business whose current focus is on supporting Covid testing. Nehal joined us in October 2020 as a Lab Technician, we catch up with her to see how she has found her first month of work.  

Can you tell us about yourself and what brings you to us?

I really enjoy science. My grandad has Parkinson’s so that was a factor for me learning more about and working in the field. I got really lucky with great science teachers that made it an engaging subject that I wanted to pursue further. I graduated in 2020 from the University of Kent, Canterbury with a First-Class BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree that included a sandwich year. I had taken my year out to get industry experience and was looking forward to heading back to study afterwards but my final year didn’t turn out as I’d thought it would. One good thing was after graduating I had some time to step back and spend time on what I enjoyed, and with my family. Then the search started for work. 

How did you find out about CCL?

I had waves of motivation in searching for a job. I knew it would be harder to find something. My friends were in the same position. I spotted CCL on the BBC News on a feature discussing their work in Covid testing and that they needed to recruit. I got in touch and started the interview process. I really wanted to do my part for the cause. Other interviews were happening, but I didn’t feel the same engagement with the other companies as I did for CCL. 

What is your job role and what does that involve?

I’m a Lab Technician. I really enjoy the work; the people make it. I spend my time working alongside the other Lab Technicians helping with the Covid sample preparation. I’m getting a lot of on the job training, and everyone has been so helpful. We have such a great sense of team camaraderie.

How has joining a business during a pandemic been? 

Its chaotic energy but good chaotic. The company is so organised. Working within a small company you also feel like you make more of an impact. We have a proper sense of teamwork. 

Do you have any advice for other job seeking graduates?

Don’t give up, something will come up when you’re least expecting it. Also take chances like I did after seeing CCL on the BBC News. 

What are your hopes for the future?

I’m quite keen to get as much experience as I can. I’m really enjoying being in the lab at the moment. I’ll definitely pursue a career in science. 

Connect with Nehal