Dear Friend,
My name is Jade Michaud. I’m a proud graduate of Gloucester Biotechnology Academy and now work full-time at Outer Biosciences in the role of Research Associate I.
Not too long ago, I was working at a fast-food restaurant, holding onto a lifelong dream of building a career in science. But without financial stability or a clear path forward, I didn’t know how to make it a reality.
Everything changed when I reached out to my former high school career advisor. During our conversation, she handed me a flyer about Gloucester Biotechnology Academy, the educational arm of Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute. Neither of us knew in that moment how life-changing that piece of paper would be.
The Academy’s Biotechnology Certificate program stood out: a nine-month, tuition-free course with a guaranteed paid internship in the life sciences industry. It felt like the opportunity I had been waiting for. I applied right away, interviewed, toured the facility, and was deeply inspired by the people I met. When I was accepted, I knew I was about to begin something truly transformative.
On day one, I felt a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, curiosity—but I quickly learned I wasn’t alone. My cohort became my support system. We worked together, solved problems, and built lifelong connections. We journeyed through unchartered territory together. We grew stronger as individuals and as a group.
Academically, I dove into hands-on training—mastering molecular biology techniques like DNA extraction and PCR, and using industry-standard equipment like fermenters, chromatography systems, and mammalian cell lines. I built a foundation in both the science and the professional skills needed to thrive in the biotech field.
The Academy also offered me comprehensive wraparound services during my time in the program. These resources matter. They make the difference between students showing up or staying home, between dreaming and doing.
At the end of my six months of hands-on laboratory training, the Academy connected me to a paid internship at Outer Biosciences, a company doing cutting-edge work in health, skincare, and cosmetics.
I fell in love—with the mission, the culture, and the work.
In August 2024 I graduated with a Biotechnology Certificate from the Academy. I felt a sense of fulfillment, pride, and anticipation for what would come next. It was wonderful to celebrate with my peers that day and to share with them that in just a few short weeks after graduation, I would be employed full time at Outer Biosciences as a Research Associate I.
The most important thing the Academy gave me wasn’t just skills or a job—it was confidence. I learned that I am capable, worthy, and ready to step into a real career where I contribute meaningfully to real science, every day.
The Academy didn’t just change my life—it gave me a new one.
Your support helps students like me transform their lives. When you contribute to Gloucester Biotechnology Academy, you’re not just funding education— you’re creating scientists, leaders, and stories like mine.
Thank you for believing in what’s possible—and for helping others realize their potential, just like I did.
With gratitude,
