Bianca Graves
When Bianca Graves reached a career crossroads, she took an unexpected turn into clinical research. A Cuero native, she never imagined working in the field, but after her first role, she knew it was the right fit.
Her discovery began at Victoria College. Graves first connected with VC as a junior at Cuero High School when she took summer undergraduate courses. She enrolled full-time at VC after graduating in 2009. The college’s affordability and flexible schedule allowed her to live at home and save thousands while continuing her education.
She planned to become a physician assistant and tutored fellow VC students, an experience that revealed a love of teaching.
“As a tutor, I discovered my enjoyment of teaching,” said Graves. “As a clinical research associate, I train physicians, nurses, pharmacy technicians and laboratory personnel on protocol, investigational drug management and study portals and systems. Victoria College gave me the opportunity to discover traits that proved key to my career.”
After graduating from VC, Graves earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Houston–Victoria. She later returned to VC for the Medical Assisting Course, where a chance opportunity steered her toward clinical research.
“Shortly after completing the course, I was hired as a clinical research study coordinator at a gastroenterology clinic in Victoria,” she said. “I fell in love with clinical research and eventually was hired at IQVIA, the largest contract research organization in North America.”
Graves has worked on studies in oncology, respiratory disease, neurology and ophthalmology. Several drugs she helped oversee have since been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, giving patients new treatment options. She said she is grateful to have found such a fulfilling career.
“If not for Victoria College and the networking among participating doctors and facilities, I would not have discovered clinical research,” she said. “So, embrace the opportunities that come your way. If I had not, I would not be in this career today.”
VC wants to hear from former and current Pirates. Visit VictoriaCollege.edu/ShareYourStory to submit a success story in honor of VC’s 100th anniversary.