Student Testimonials

Courtney Hollifield

Courtney Hollifield

Hometown: Charlotte, NC

Class Speciality: Orthopaedic Extremities

Company Placement: Smith & Nephew

Tell me a little about your background.

I attended Appalachian State University and majored in Broadcasting and Marketing. After college, I knew I wanted to pursue sales versus a career in broadcasting. I?m extremely competitive and thought sales would provide a better future.

Why were you interested in pursuing medical sales as a career?

I grew up with a mother in pharmaceutical sales and she encouraged me to look into medical device sales since the pharmaceutical industry is very unstable.

How did you learn about Medical Sales College?

I found out about MSC through a friend of my mother?s, whom had left the pharma industry for a career in orthopedic device sales.

What ultimately made you decide to attend?

I wanted more. After four months in a different type of sales position, I was extremely bored and less than enthused with my salary. I became impatient and knew I had to do something!

Please describe your training experience at Medical Sales College.

At first I was overwhelmed! I received my coursework/materials and thought I was attending medical school. Since the at-home portion was completed while I was working, it was a little tough being a student and full-time employee. However, after two weeks I quickly got the hang of things and began forming a pattern/schedule for all assignments.

What is the most valuable piece of information that you learned while attending MSC which ultimately helped you land your position?

Everything! I would quote my instructor at various times. I utilized my final project (surgeon profiles) to demonstrate the work I had already put in. My knowledge of various anatomy, medical terms, and familiarity with the O.R. setting really impressed my manager and future team members. While completing a ride along, the rep was blown away with my ease and knowledge of O.R./hospital protocol.

Why should someone attend Medical Sales College?

To build a career! Attending MSC has provided me the opportunity to extend my earning potential, interact with brilliant individuals daily, and ultimately be a part of an amazing team that focuses on improving lives. With a B.S. in communications, I can?t think of any career that would provide all those opportunities. This industry truly is, eat what you kill. I know the harder I work, the more I will see great reward.

How long did you try to get into the industry before attending MSC? What was that experience like?

I tried breaking in for about a year. It was extremely tough because everyone wanted EXPERIENCE!

Did you have any fears about attending the School? What were they?

Absolutely! Unlike returning for an MBA or other graduate degree, this school only opened a narrow set of doors (Medical device sales or bust.) That was the scary part, considering I still wasn?t 110% positive it was the perfect fit for me. Also, attending the school meant quitting the job I had just landed four months prior.

What is your current job like?

My current job is an ASR with Smith & Nephew Sports Medicine/Endoscopy. As an ASR, your primary role is supporting the full reps with anything they may need. That includes running equipment to various locations, covering cases, etc.

What do you know now that you wish you had known before entering the industry/attending Medical Sales College?

How hard you will work! Attending MSC kicked my butt, in a good way! I had no idea how in-depth the material would be, how extensive the work would be, and how late I would stay up every night! Come prepared to work, but have an amazing time and build lasting friendships!

What was the most valuable thing you learned at Medical Sales College/What piece of training do you use the most in your day-to-day activities?

I?m still very new to my job, however I think general knowledge of the duties of a medical device rep is the most valuable thing I learned. I had NO IDEA what a rep would truly be responsible for, or how their days would be. Attending the school made me feel as though I had already worked in the industry. This gives me such a relief when working with my new team that has worked in the industry for a long time.