Cell Notes: Career Mosaic - Weaving Stories Across Generations, One Day at a Time

In her monthly column "Cell Notes," AABB's Christina Celluzzi, PhD, MS, CABP(H), shares insights, findings and commentary on emerging topics in biotherapies. Subscribe to CellSource, AABB's biotherapies newsletter, to receive "Cell Notes" and the latest news directly in your inbox. 

Pablo Picasso, the great Spanish artist, said “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” This profound statement emphasizes the importance of discovering our unique talents and then sharing them with others. Just as ‘seasoned’ professionals can offer guidance and wisdom based on their experiences, students and early-career professionals contribute fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. Our individual journeys are not just about personal success. They are also about contributing to the greater mosaic of knowledge and growth. Our stories can provide context. I recently had the privilege and pleasure of being invited to share my career journey at the Biomedical Graduate Students Organization (BGSO) retreat at University of South Dakota/Sanford Research.  

It was fun to remind myself about why I got into cell therapy, the people and cells I met along the way, and the enjoyment of being a part of this exciting field. To take this journey, for me it is important to have “FIRE”: Flexibility, Interest, Resilience and Empathy. Flexibility is having the ability to adapt, change and embrace new approaches when faced with challenges or shifting circumstances. Interest is having genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, exploring and engaging with various activities. Resilience is having the capacity to bounce back from setbacks, maintain a constructive attitude and persevere. Empathy is understanding and having compassion for others, actively listening and considering different perspectives. 

Adaptability and resilience are key themes. Lessons of embracing change, surviving setbacks, and staying open-minded are important. Success is not always linear. Unconventional routes can lead to fulfillment. These real-world insights can prepare students for the complexities they will face.

Networking and mentorship are powerful tools. We can encourage students to seek mentors, build connections, and learn some unexpected paths to their goals. Beyond technical expertise, we can discuss project management, effective communication, and teamwork—skills vital for a successful career.  

We can share the passion that fuels our work, and hearing about our purpose can inspire students to find their own "why." There is mutual benefit. We can remind ourselves of our own passion to renew our energy and keep us focused on meaningful contributions. Our stories can become part of their collective knowledge and, someday, they will pay it forward by sharing their journeys. So, to those students, early-career professionals and those exploring a career path: lean in and listen to the stories. Someday, you will be the established professional, standing in a place helping to shape minds and passing the torch.

I would like to thank Alicia L. Simmons, graduate student and BGSO event coordinator, and the retreat attendees for their welcoming ears. I wish graduate students and early career professionals all the best in their careers. We hope that AABB can in some way be a part of everyone’s journey. If you are reminded of your career path. If you feel someone has had an influence in your life, please help someone by paying it forward. Global Pay It Forward Day is on April 28. On this day, people and organizations worldwide unite with a common goal to simply “pay it forward.”