While the term “networking sessions” can sound formal and sometimes intimidating, I found that at Sanofi, networking happened quite naturally. Whether it was while waiting for a cup of coffee or grabbing a snack from the pantry, casual moments often led to meaningful conversations. Company events held at the community centre also created a relaxed environment to connect with colleagues over food and drinks, making it easier to build relationships in a more organic way.

Takeaways and Tips:

• Set small, realistic goals.
  For those who are more introverted, large gatherings can feel overwhelming. Before attending an event, I found it helpful to set a small goal — such as speaking to three new people. This made the experience more manageable and intentional.
• Switch up where you sit.
  Instead of staying at the same desk every day, try sitting in a different section of the office from time to time. I noticed that by simply sitting in a new area for a week, I naturally started interacting with new colleagues around me. It created opportunities for informal conversations and helped me integrate more comfortably.
• Make use of pantry moments.
  The pantry is one of the best places for casual conversations. A simple “good morning” while waiting for coffee can lead to unexpected and engaging discussions. These small exchanges help build rapport over time.
• Say yes to lunch invitations — or initiate one.
  During my first week, I had not met the other interns yet and found myself exploring the area alone at lunchtime. A colleague of my manager kindly invited me to join her for lunch, which turned into a valuable opportunity to connect and learn more about different roles in the company.

Overall, I have learned that meaningful connections often grow from everyday interactions. Being open, approachable, and intentional even in small ways can go a long way in building a strong professional network.

During my internship at Sanofi as a Corporate Affairs Intern, I had the opportunity to contribute to several meaningful initiatives. The regional scope of the role exposed me to cross-cultural collaboration and gave me insight into the pharmaceutical industry from multiple perspectives through close work with various departments.

One project that stands out was supporting a patient advocacy event held in Thailand. Despite joining the project in the later stages, I quickly adapted to Sanofi’s collaborative culture and took ownership of diverse responsibilities.

Together with a Thai colleague, we took the initiative to understand new processes, working late hours to ensure compliance with internal requirements and to coordinate communications with both internal stakeholders and external partners. Despite the challenges, the event came together successfully, and it was incredibly rewarding to see participants enjoy and appreciate the effort that went into it.

In addition to this project, I was also grateful for the opportunity to volunteer with my colleagues during Rare Disease Day in partnership with KKH. We helped run game booths and engaged directly with patients, an experience that was both humbling and heartwarming.

A particularly memorable moment came when a colleague invited me to support communications coverage for a mentoring program in partnership with the NUS Career Access Team. Being able to give back and share my journey with students who were now in the position I once was felt like a full-circle moment — a reminder of how far I had come and the impact I could make.

Adaptability is key in fast-paced industries. From the very first day, it became clear that no two days would look exactly the same. Tasks and priorities could shift quickly based on regional developments, business needs, or unforeseen challenges. It is important to stay calm under pressure, learn quickly, and be resourceful. Being open to change and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to significant personal and professional growth. In dynamic work environments, adaptability isn't just a helpful trait—it’s an essential one.

One of the most meaningful takeaways from my internship at Sanofi was the value of teamwork and collaboration. Coming into a regional role that spanned across Southeast Asia and India, I knew I would be working with people from different cultural and professional backgrounds. However, I didn’t fully grasp how enriching and essential that collaboration would become until I was deep into the experience.

Every project I worked on involved interacting with colleagues from different departments, and this required a balance of communication, openness, and respect for diverse perspectives. It taught me that effective teamwork isn’t just about sharing responsibilities—it’s about learning how to listen, adapt, and support one another even when things are uncertain or unfamiliar.

My internship at Sanofi was a transformative chapter in my early career journey. It provided not only a glimpse into the fast-paced pharmaceutical industry but also an environment where I could grow both professionally and personally. The experience solidified my interest in corporate affairs and communications while expanding my understanding of how cross-functional teams operate in a regional, multicultural context.

Through hands-on involvement in real projects—such as organizing a regional patient advocacy event—I discovered the importance of adaptability, proactive problem-solving, and clear communication. Being trusted with responsibilities early on gave me the confidence to step outside of my comfort zone and make meaningful contributions, even in unfamiliar situations.

Moreover, the internship sharpened my interpersonal skills. Collaboration with colleagues across the region taught me how to work effectively across cultures and time zones, a skill that is increasingly valuable in today’s globalized workforce. Natural networking moments, volunteering activities, and mentoring opportunities all helped me develop a stronger sense of professional presence and community engagement.

Most importantly, the internship helped me see the kind of professional I aspire to be—one who is adaptable, collaborative, and driven by purpose. It affirmed my passion for work that involves communication, stakeholder engagement, and impact-driven initiatives. Moving forward, I feel better equipped and more motivated to pursue roles where I can continue growing in these areas while contributing meaningfully to the organizations I join.

Don’t be afraid to jump into the unknown!