Not everyone in healthcare is comfortable around blood—and that’s perfectly okay.
Rachael Cardinal is a perfect example. She’s always wanted to help people, but the sight of blood made her queasy. Instead of giving up on her dream, she found a career that allowed her to make a real impact—without needles or blood draws. Her solution? Pharmacy.
Discovering the Path
Rachael’s interest in pharmacy sparked during her third year of high school. She was taking a college-level chemistry course, and something about it just felt right. It was the first time she could clearly see her future unfolding—and it didn’t involve scrubs soaked in blood.
She knew she wanted to work directly with patients in a meaningful way, and pharmacy offered just that. Her goal became clear: to become a clinical pharmacist in an ambulatory care setting, working alongside doctors in outpatient clinics and primary care offices.
Choosing the Right Pharmacy School
Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Rachael wasn’t quite ready to leave home. Thankfully, she didn’t have to go far. The University at Buffalo turned out to be one of the top pharmacy schools in the region, and it offered the perfect balance of academic excellence and hometown comfort.
The Power of Mentorship
Throughout her pharmacy school journey, mentors played a major role in Rachael’s growth. One mentor in particular, a clinical pharmacist and mother, left a lasting impression. Her passion for patient care and dedication to helping students inspired Rachael to pursue a residency and specialize in ambulatory care.
This mentor guided her through scholarship applications, pushed her to grow professionally and personally, and even challenged her during clinical rotations. Support like that made a huge difference.
Life in Pharmacy School
For Rachael, one of the most rewarding parts of pharmacy school is being able to apply what she learns in real-life situations. Seeing how her decisions directly impact patient outcomes gives her purpose and motivation.
Pharmacy school also offers plenty of opportunities to collaborate. From group quizzes and poster presentations to verbal reports and student-led events, teamwork is a regular part of the experience. She’s involved in professional organizations, where students plan events and build connections outside the classroom.
Balance Beyond the Books
When she’s not buried in textbooks or working in a clinic, Rachael recharges at the gym or spends time with friends and family. Staying active and social helps her maintain a healthy balance between academics and personal life.
Lessons From the Past
One piece of advice that’s stuck with her since high school? Don’t give up on your dreams.
That mindset continues to fuel her today. Pharmacy school isn’t easy, but believing in herself and staying committed to her goals has made all the difference.
Advice for Aspiring Pharmacists
For students thinking about pharmacy school, Rachael encourages confidence and courage. Take risks. Apply for that internship. Run for leadership roles in student organizations. Pursue a residency if that’s your dream.
What you invest in pharmacy school—your energy, your effort, your curiosity—comes back to you in growth, opportunity, and purpose.
Also Read : You Don’t Have to Go Through It Alone: The Power of Reaching Out
