Choosing the right pharmacy school is a crucial step in shaping a successful career. For Pharm.D. student Lauren Isaacs, this decision was influenced by factors such as small class sizes, interprofessional education, and the dynamic environment of Philadelphia. However, Lauren’s journey to pharmacy was anything but conventional. Initially an English Literature major, she discovered her passion for pharmacy through an unexpected academic experience.
How Lauren Chose Her Pharmacy School
When considering pharmacy programs, Lauren sought an institution that offered a small class size to ensure personalized attention and strong faculty-student relationships. She found the perfect fit at Thomas Jefferson University College of Pharmacy. The university’s emphasis on interprofessional education—collaborating with students from other healthcare disciplines—further solidified her decision. Additionally, the vibrant medical landscape of Philadelphia provided extensive clinical exposure and networking opportunities.
A Unique Path to Pharmacy
Lauren’s initial academic path did not involve science or medicine. While attending Allegheny College, she took an introductory chemistry course to fulfill a general education requirement. Surprisingly, this class sparked a deep interest in chemistry, leading her to pursue a chemistry minor. A turning point came when a chemical kinetics assignment introduced her to the role of pharmacists, inspiring her to research pharmacy as a career.
During her winter break, Lauren explored resources on Pharmacy is Right for Me, a platform dedicated to guiding prospective pharmacy students. Through her research, she realized pharmacy was the perfect blend of her interests in chemistry and patient care.
Mentorship and Career Development
Lauren’s professional growth has been shaped by influential mentors, including Dr. Alexis Hart from Allegheny College, who ignited her passion for academia, and Dr. Cynthia Sanoski, a leader in pharmacy education at the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. Their guidance helped her gain acceptance into the prestigious AACP Aspiring Academics Program. Additionally, her colleagues at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania introduced her to diverse inpatient pharmacy roles.
Challenges and Rewards of Pharmacy School
Lauren highlights the importance of time management in pharmacy school. Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, work, and personal life can be demanding. To stay organized, she relies on detailed scheduling and planning. Despite these challenges, she finds immense fulfillment in working with fellow healthcare professionals and contributing to patient care.
Her advice to prospective students is simple: don’t hesitate to explore new opportunities. She encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, embrace challenges, and remain open to unexpected career paths.
Final Thoughts: A Full-Circle Moment
Reflecting on her journey, Lauren acknowledges how her background in English Literature continues to benefit her in pharmacy. Skills like critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical writing play a crucial role in patient interactions, research, and academic discussions.
For aspiring pharmacists, Lauren’s story is a testament to the importance of adaptability and curiosity. Whether you’re just starting your journey or considering a career change, pharmacy offers endless opportunities to combine science with patient care.
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