The goal of Jason and his team’s IQP at the Albania Project Center was to help their sponsor assess how pharmaceutical waste - particularly expired drug disposal - is managed in areas of Tirana. The current state of pharmaceutical waste management in Albania is fragile and constitutes one of the biggest waste management concerns in the country. Jason and his three teammates interviewed 73 pharmacists - 10 percent of the total pharmacists in Tirana - about their pharmaceutical waste disposal practices. The information they gathered will provide the sponsor with data to obtain grant money from the U.S. Embassy to conduct a more in-depth investigation on every pharmacist in Tirana.
Jason was greatly impressed by the sense of community and pride Albanians had for their country; many of his new friends in Tirana explained that they’d like to study and receive an education in the United States, then use their knowledge to improve the quality of life in Albania. During his time abroad, Jason received a newfound appreciation for the opportunities available in the United States, many of which are not available in other areas of the world—including Albania. He knew he could pursue his dreams in the United States, but working with and learning from his sponsor helped him truly understand and appreciate what that meant.
- Development of critical time management skills to succeed in a fast-paced academic environment while still allowing for social time to enjoy co-curricular activities and friends.
- Embracing my individuality and exploring new interests such as photography.
- Pursue a career in my area of study with an energy related company.
- Work and live in other parts of the country outside of New England.
Typical Work Week Schedule
Typical Weekend Schedule
Visiting pharmacies in the capital city of Tirana with the project sponsor
A team photo during a weekend expedition to the scenic region of Valbona
Walking to pharmacies in the city of Tirana to interview them on their pharmaceutical waste management practices
A weekend visit to Durres, the largest port and second largest city of Albania
Taking notes outside a pharmacy in Tirana following an interview
A team photo with project sponsor, Jonida Mamaj, at the final project presentation event at the Albania Project Center
A team meeting at the project sponsor’s office—EDEN Center
Inspecting the water quality of the Lana River—the main stream that crosses through Tirana, the capital city of Albania