Creating Visibility, Building Pathways: Opening Doors to Pharma and Life Sciences Careers
New York City has quietly grown into one of the country’s most important life sciences hubs. From the Alexandria Center to new biotech incubators and VC-backed therapeutics startups, the city is home to a thriving and expanding industry.
But many of the city’s students don’t see it—and aren’t part of it.
Even as the sector grows, careers in pharma, biotech, and medical devices often remain out of view for students without industry connections or exposure. For first-generation college students across the CUNY system, many of whom are balancing jobs, school, and family responsibilities, these careers can feel out of reach—too advanced, too hidden, or simply not meant for them.
This is where The City Tutors has stepped in to create new access through a partnership with Quality Champions for Life.
Through this partnership, our learners receive free education in the science of product quality—knowledge that is foundational to life science industries. The Quality Science Education (QSE) Program was built by industry professionals to give students critical insights, technical exposure, and the practical skills needed to contribute to healthcare innovation and patient safety. Combined with mentorship and hiring opportunities, the program gives underrepresented learners a meaningful way to break into the field.
Garri Rivkin, Executive Director of The City Tutors, shared:
“What makes this partnership meaningful is how intentional it is. The team behind the QSE Program understands that talent is everywhere, but access isn’t. They are not waiting for students to stumble into these industries. They are creating clear, structured entry points and inviting students in. That kind of visibility is rare, and it’s exactly what our learners need.”
Ann Hinkle, Director of University Relations and Enrollment at Quality Champions for Life, added:
“City Tutors is an organization that walks in its purpose by engaging underrepresented students in practical pathways that can change their lives forever. We are grateful to have this opportunity to support their mission and have seen the NY students thrive in our program and in our industry.”
Through the partnership, City Tutors learners gain:
Free, rigorous coursework developed by industry professionals
Direct mentorship from experts in pharma, biotech, and related sectors
Exposure to real job functions and career paths
Access to internships and full-time roles through the Quality Champions Hiring Platform
Almas Mughal, a biochemistry major at Hunter College, is one of many learners who found a clearer direction through this opportunity.
Before discovering the QSE Program, Almas didn’t have a clear picture of where her academic background could take her. She joined after attending a City Tutors event and, for the first time, saw how her strengths could be applied beyond the lab. QSE gave her industry-recognized credentials and helped her explore career options in the life sciences without limiting her path.
At the same time, she was matched with a mentor through The City Tutors who helped her understand how to turn academic experience into professional momentum. With that guidance, she approached her internship with intention—and left with her first job offer, along with an invitation to return in a more advanced role.
Her story is one of many that show what happens when visibility is paired with structure and support.
The partnership between The City Tutors and Quality Champions for Life is not just introducing learners to the life sciences—it’s equipping them to enter the field with clarity, preparation, and purpose.
https://www.qualitychampions.org/our-partners