What drew you to pharmacy instead of other healthcare fields?
I’ve always loved the medical field — it lets me blend my love of science with my passion for helping people. But honestly? I’m not a fan of “blood and guts” at all! Pharmacy gives me a way to contribute to patient care using my math, science, and communication skills — and I can usually skip the graphic stuff!
When did you realize pharmacy was the right path?
Up until my senior year of high school, I had no idea! I thought about being a writer, maybe a college professor, or even an engineer. I was undecided because I had so many interests. I knew I liked the medical field but wasn’t sure where I would fit in — and at that point, pharmacy wasn’t even on my radar.
Then my doctor actually suggested pharmacy. So I decided to shadow a clinical pharmacist at my local hospital — and I loved it. Watching the pharmacist dive into labs, cultures, and treatment decisions really opened my eyes. It wasn’t just about filling prescriptions; it was about being a key part of the care team.
What kind of pharmacist do you hope to become?
I want to be a clinical pharmacist — just like the one I shadowed — and work either in a hospital or an outpatient clinic. I haven’t chosen a specialty yet (Pediatrics? Oncology? Maybe both!). For now, I’m leaning toward general adult medicine because it gives me the chance to work with a wide variety of patients.
I’d also love to teach — becoming a pharmacy faculty member would allow me to be in the classroom and still practice with patients on a medical team.
How did you choose your pharmacy school?
Once I decided on pharmacy, I looked for a university that offered both a pre-pharmacy program and a pharmacy school. I really wanted to do my undergrad and pharmacy training at the same place. The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) was perfect — it’s the only state-funded pharmacy school in Louisiana.
The pharmacist I shadowed was a ULM alum, as were many local pharmacists, and they all spoke highly of the program. Choosing ULM turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made — and someday, I’d love to come back as a faculty member.
Did anyone help guide you along the way?
Absolutely. My family and friends — especially those already in pharmacy school — were my biggest cheerleaders. Pharmacy school is a long road that takes hard work and sacrifice, and their support has meant everything.
Now that I’m in my final year, my faculty mentor has become a huge source of advice and encouragement as I work toward a career in academic pharmacy.
What do you love most about pharmacy school?
Of course, I love learning about pharmacy! But what really stands out are all the experiences that go beyond the classroom. ULM has given me the chance to attend conferences across the country, participate in research projects, and even go on a medical mission trip to Peru.
Being involved in student organizations has also been incredibly rewarding. I love connecting with the community through health fairs and service projects. Even as a student, it feels amazing to sit with patients, talk about their medications or health, and answer their questions. Knowing I can make a difference — even now — is the best part.
Do you collaborate with other pharmacy students?
Every single day! During my first three years, we worked together on group projects, patient cases, presentations, and student organizations. Now in my final year, collaboration extends even further — I work with pharmacy students, medical students, nursing students, residents, physician assistants, physical therapy students — you name it! It’s exciting to be part of a real healthcare team.
What’s the best advice you got in high school?
It came from my mom. She told me: “If you never made a mistake, you wouldn’t be normal. No one is perfect. It’s okay not to be the best at everything the first time you try it.”
That advice stuck with me. Fear of failure can really hold us back. Pharmacy school is full of challenges, and rarely do things go perfectly on the first try. When I struggle with something new, I remind myself to look at how far I’ve come and keep moving forward.
What advice would you give a high schooler considering pharmacy?
If you’re even a little curious about pharmacy, find a way to shadow a local pharmacist — at a hospital, clinic, or community pharmacy. Many areas have programs for high schoolers, so check with your guidance counselor.
One of the best parts about pharmacy is its versatility. The career paths are nearly endless — you just need to explore and find the one that lights you up!
Also Read : Why I Choose Pharmacy: Fulfilling Her Purpose in Life
