From advertising to advocacy: Meet the first MPS graduate

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Jeni Cook
December 16, 2024

Written by Safa Tonuzi

Unlike many of her peers, Christine Kwon, who on December 15 became the first student to graduate from the Master of Professional Science in Regulatory Science (MPS) program at the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, didn’t spend her undergraduate years around beakers, flasks, and pipettes. As a former advertising major and automotive sales analyst, Kwon’s unconventional journey to regulatory science was shaped by personal challenges and a determination to bridge gaps in health care communication.

Christine Kwon in black graduation regalia leans back and smiles for a picture among the other graduates — Christine Kwon at graduation

Kwon’s life shifted after the birth of her child. Experiencing postpartum depression, she faced a health crisis that culminated in a hospital stay. “It was a pivotal moment,” she reflects. “I realized how crucial clear, compassionate communication is in health care, especially for mental health.” This realization sparked her interest in tackling inefficiencies in the health care system – specifically for Asian women.

With a newfound interest in patient care, Kwon embarked on her mission to improve patient-provider relationships. She became a Certified Pharmacy Technician, gaining insight into medication management, and later applied to the MPS program at the school of pharmacy.

Kwon’s adviser, and the director of the MPS program, Patricia Termini, says Kwon’s work ethic and enthusiasm are what impress her most. “She’s done incredibly well in the program. Her performance has set a precedent for other students who don’t come from a science background.”

During the program, Kwon interned with the Atlanta Veteran Affairs Medical Center where she worked on clinical research processes, including Investigational New Drug Applications, Institutional Review Board protocols, and investigational drug management. Christine’s role also involved ensuring compliance with Good Clinical Practice guidelines and understanding the balance between regulatory demands and patient safety.

Kwon wants others to be inspired to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences even if their background doesn’t reflect a conventional science track. “You can graduate from pharmacy school and learn all these things. It is possible,” said Kwon.

After graduation, she plans to work in regulatory affairs or clinical research, focusing on medication safety, compliance, and mental health advocacy. Long-term, she hopes to drive innovations in mental health treatments, develop culturally sensitive educational tools, and improve health care outcomes for underserved communities.