Darcy works at C.R. Bard, Inc. (Davol) and is a mother of two young girls. After receiving her B.S. in Veterinary Sciences from Becker College, and working for a few years at C.R. Bard, Inc. (Davol), Darcy decided to pursue her Master’s of Science (ScM) to expand her knowledge base. Darcy continued to work at C.R. Bard while she worked on her degree part-time. Since graduating from Brown, Darcy received a promotion at her company. Here is Darcy's story:
What made you decide to attend Brown?
Darcy: I decided to attend Brown after looking at the various graduate degrees offered in the northeast and determined that the classes at Brown were most relevant to my career choice and my goal of expanding my knowledge base. I wanted a geographically close university that had a graduate degree program that fit into my schedule with a solid reputation. Brown offered much flexibility to take the courses that fit my interest most.
What school did you come from and what did you study as an undergraduate?
Darcy: Before Brown, I attended Becker College in Leicester, MA for two undergraduate degrees. I received an Associate in Science in Veterinary Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Science (Laboratory Animal Medicine Concentration). I am also a Certified Veterinary Technician in Massachusetts, a Surgical Research Specialist, and a Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist.
How was the work/life balance during your studies in the Master's program? Was the program something you felt was doable as a working parent?
Darcy: The work / life balance during my Master’s degree was crazy-busy and challenging. But it was a challenge I was up for. I had wonderful support from my employer, Brown and my family; or it could not have been done! All hands were on deck and I cannot thank each and every one enough for that. I did feel the program was doable as a working parent, so long as the support system exists. If any one of the factors in the equation were not on board to begin with, it may not be doable. Since I am a persistent person who does not quit, I set into the program with the end goal of a degree in mind and would not go off track.
What did you get from your Master’s Degree at Brown?
Darcy: I got a lot from my Master’s degree at Brown. I learned different aspects about research that I had not been exposed to. It has enabled me to speak more intelligently about certain aspects of biotechnology that I could not before my classes at Brown. I have made some great friendships and formed connections to some valuable resources that I would not have otherwise. My degree has also opened doors in my career that would not have opened otherwise.
Where are you now and how did Brown help you get there if it did?
Darcy: I am currently employed as a Staff Scientist / Pre-Clinical Surgeon at C.R. Bard, Inc. a large multi-national medical device company in Warwick, Rhode Island. Shortly after earning my degree, I received a promotion which has also helped me grow to the next level. I also am a guest lecturer and adjunct faculty at Becker College. Brown helped me to refine my presentation skills and gain more confidence in speaking with students at Becker.
What did you like about Brown?
Darcy: I really enjoyed the courses (both content and design) that I took and the professors that taught them. The courses fit into my schedule fairly well with work and home. The freedom to choose the classes I needed was helpful as well. I enjoyed the collaboration with the professors throughout my years at Brown.
Given the outcome of your degree would you make the same decision to attend Brown?
Darcy: YES! In fact, so much so that I would love the opportunity to continue my education for a PhD in Biotechnology at Brown in the near future. I am taking one course this semester. Additionally, I recommended and recruited two colleagues into the program since my Master’s degree experience.