Arthur Nikolov: The boy who returned from the USA for his internship at Sopharma

Arther Nikolov, known to our colleagues as Arti, is part of this year’s internship program in our laboratories. He supported our team in Sofia and distinguished himself during his internship with his communication skills, charisma, and eagerness to learn and develop.

"When you pursue something with passion and find ways to chase your goals, success always follows, no matter where you are".

Arti is a sophomore at Wake Forest University in the USA, where he studies molecular biology and chemistry. Like many young people, he enjoys meeting new people, traveling, and seeking new challenges. Besides his scientific interests, Arti has been playing the piano since the age of six, adding an artistic touch to his personality. Sports and fishing are also an integral part of his daily life. 

Here’s what else he shared: 

• Why did you choose Sopharma for your internship? 

Looking ahead to the time after graduating from university, I wanted to get a glimpse of a real work environment and meet potential future colleagues while still a student, so I could determine if this could be "my" workplace. Starting this internship had a longer-term goal, namely, laying the foundation for my future career. Sopharma is one of the top companies in Bulgaria and perhaps the only one where I could apply my knowledge and begin my professional development. That’s why the choice was quite easy, and I am extremely happy to have worked as an intern in the microbiology lab. My expectations were fully met, and I’m glad I contributed and helped my colleagues in the lab. 

• What tasks do you perform? What new knowledge and skills have you gained? 

I think I managed to adapt to the lab work quite quickly, partly due to the hands-on academic program at my university. After undergoing a detailed introductory training, in addition to the basic tasks like preparing culture media, packaging banks, and vials for clean areas, and conducting various basic analyses, I also observed and participated (under the expert supervision of my mentor) in more responsible tasks - such as opening Petri dishes and taking samples in clean process zones, conducting microbiological analyses, etc. The most important thing I’ve learned so far is the responsibility I take on in every activity. 

I’ve come to understand that even the smallest mistake can affect human lives, which gives a new perspective on my work.

• Did you encounter any challenges applying your academic knowledge in practice?  

From a practical point of view - not really. Of course, there are many new things to learn and processes to follow. I’m learning every day. But my biggest challenge so far has been translating the different terminology in my head into Bulgarian. I’ve learned all the terms, mechanisms, cellular processes, etc., in English, and it’s still strange when I hear a term in Bulgarian - it would sound quite different in English. But putting that aside, I believe my knowledge is at the highest level..  

• What has your experience been with colleagues and teams at Sopharma? What impressed you about their work? 

I’m very happy to have worked with true professionals in the field of microbiology. The colleagues were very welcoming from day one, and they made me feel like part of the team. Everyone helped me adapt, and I was able to get up to speed very quickly. Despite being a student and the youngest person in the team, the respect I felt was immense, which created incredible motivation. 

• Which experience or knowledge is most valuable for your professional growth? 

Probably observing the sterility tests for ampoule and lyophilized drug products. External micro-pathogens have always been an interesting area for me, perhaps due to my long-term ideas for development in this field.. 

• Would you return to Bulgaria? 

Yes, of course, it’s not even a question for me. Although I study in the USA, where education is of an exceptionally high standard, I’ve never had the desire to stay and work there. In my opinion, opportunities for work and development exist for young people everywhere. I have many friends in Bulgaria, and I feel great here. When someone pursues something with passion and looks for ways to achieve their goals, success always comes, no matter where they are. My time at Sopharma has been incredible for me, and this is just a small example of how Bulgaria offers excellent opportunities. So yes, after graduating, I will return here. 

• Were there any funny or memorable moments during your internship at Sopharma? 

One of the interesting events was that shortly after I started, another intern joined the team, and I was entrusted with training him in some of the lab activities. This was a huge acknowledgment for me, providing additional motivation and confidence that I had found the right place for my future growth at Sopharma.