At Novo Nordisk, we believe in the power of opportunity – the chance to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully. That's why we're proud to partner with Project Search, a program that provides internships and skill development for young adults with disabilities. Through this collaboration, we're cultivating talent and planting seeds of opportunity for a more inclusive and vibrant workforce where everyone can thrive.
"I love Project SEARCH because I was able to learn new skills," Rachel shares with infectious enthusiasm. For Rachel, Project SEARCH wasn't just an internship; it was a chance to discover her capabilities and chart a course for her future.
During her internship, Rachel contributed to various projects, and her responsibilities included everything from administrative tasks to researching social impact events for Novo Nordisk's "Take Action" portal. She also developed valuable professional skills, like resume building and navigating platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, thanks to the support of her dedicated instructors.
Beyond the technical skills, Project SEARCH provided Rachel with something even more valuable: a sense of belonging and connection. She formed strong relationships with her coworkers, greeting them with a cheerful "Good morning!" and always brightening their days. When asked whether Rachel’s coworkers made her feel like a part of the team, she replied “yes" without hesitation.
One of the most impactful relationships Rachel forged was with her mentor, Lisa Melchesky, an associate manager in the C&O department. Lisa played a crucial role in helping Rachel identify her strengths and find projects that aligned with her interests.
Lisa's experience as a mentor was equally transformative. "My favorite part was just seeing the excitement that Rachel had for learning new projects and giving her different opportunities," Lisa shares.
Lisa also noted how much she admired Rachel's commitment to quality. "The quality of her work was really on point. If she didn't do something perfectly, she would want to redo it again." Lisa's mentorship, in turn, embodied the Novo Nordisk Way, emphasizing respect, personal development, and a commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
Rachel's story is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Just as Rachel's instructors and mentor helped her overcome challenges and discover her strengths, Novo Nordisk is committed to providing the support and resources needed for all employees to thrive. We believe that by investing in our people, we can create a more innovative, compassionate, and impactful organization. And, in turn, help create a healthier world.
