This spring, 16 Butler University Pharmacy students participated in the first-ever Boston Pharmacy Trek, a donor-funded experiential learning trip made possible by Christina and Thomas Grusecki. Over three days during spring break, students visited five major pharmaceutical and biotech companies and interacted with Butler alumni living in the area. The Boston Pharmacy Trek joins a growing portfolio of career trek opportunities available to Butler students across all majors, offering current Bulldogs the chance to network with and learn from Butler alumni living and working in cities such as New York, Chicago, and Detroit. In keeping with the University’s strategic commitment to provide transformational learning experiences, the treks offer a meaningful avenue for students to explore opportunities and establish career connections within their fields of study.
In Boston, students visited Eli Lilly and Company, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Novartis, and Biogen. The visits included facility tours, panels with industry professionals, and fireside chats with executive leaders who shared insights into the drug development process and various functional areas. In addition to these professional site visits, students attended a networking reception with local Butler alumni and had time on their own to explore the city, including visits to historic and cultural sites such as the Freedom Trail and Fenway Park.
Along with offering students an opportunity to envision life in a different city, all of Butler’s trek programs are designed to provide students with greater insights into career opportunities within their fields of interest and study. By engaging directly with fellows and industry leaders, students on the Boston Pharmacy Trek gained a deeper understanding of non-traditional pharmacy roles in medical affairs, regulatory science, clinical development, and more.
“These experiences provided me with valuable perspectives from professionals currently working in these roles, which helped me better understand how I can apply my skills in a meaningful way outside of traditional pharmacy settings,” Nicholas Parsley ʼ27 said.
The Trek also offered students a chance to practice essential soft skills—such as networking and interviewing—and provided valuable guidance into the fellowship application process directly from program directors. For many, the trip served as a pivotal moment that confirmed their interest in the industry, leaving them feeling more confident and motivated as they prepare for their future careers.
“As a first-generation college student, I entered pharmacy school with limited exposure to the many career paths within the profession and without an established professional network. This experience allowed me to begin building those connections,” Kevin Beall ՚29 said. “The Boston Trek represents more than experiential learning; it reflects the removal of barriers and the creation of opportunities for students like me, which ultimately translates into better care for the patients we will serve.”
The trek programs are one important pathway for equipping all Butler students with the skills, experiences, and connections they need to be career-ready upon graduation. Bob Soltis, Dean of the College of Health Professions, participated in the Trek alongside the P1, P2, and P3 students, and witnessed firsthand the impact the experience had on the students’ perspective and confidence.
“The Boston Pharmacy Trek is one example of our commitment to integrating academic study with purposeful career exploration so our students are prepared to lead and serve in their chosen fields,” Soltis said. “These kinds of experiential learning opportunities are truly transformational in helping our students feel ready for the next step. We are grateful for donors like Christina and Thomas Grusecki who understand the value of these experiences and are providing the generous support to expand these opportunities to more Butler students.”
Boldly Butler is our commitment to setting the standard for delivering a transformative education with local impact and global reach. To achieve this strategic vision, we’ve launched the Boldly Butler comprehensive fundraising campaign, the largest in Butler’s history, with a goal of raising $325 million by May 31, 2030. Learn more or make a gift today at boldly.butler.edu.