Pros
I started working with Matchstick as a rotational student. During my first few weeks, I was brought up speed (there’s an internal wiki with detailed “textbooks” on key topics) and integrated into the team. Fit with the team is key. I was placed on a project related to my background (pharmacy) and interests (medication safety and adherence). The project also challenged me to learn outside my traditional scope. The Matchstick leadership is there when you need them – you get enough structure to guide you in the right direction, but also enough autonomy to be creative and lead parts of a project “your way.” After intensive prep, I presented my work directly to senior leadership of our client. As I became more comfortable with medical devices and combination products, I was given further opportunities to learn about other projects going on. What makes Matchstick most unique is their culture. The team is a small but agile group that truly believes in inclusion and developing younger professionals. I was encouraged to ask questions and received direct feedback frequently. Approaching that feedback with an open mind helped me grow quickly and gave me opportunities and exposure that has directly influenced my post-graduate career path and set me apart from my peers.
Cons
Matchstick works on challenging problems that are sometimes vague and require innovative ideas and unconventional approaches. At first, it can be difficult to adjust to the creative mindset that the team demonstrates. The right people will catch on quickly, especially if they are open to feedback.
