Pharmacy school is back in full swing, and for many students, that means diving headfirst into a whirlwind of textbooks, lectures, lab work, and endless deadlines. It’s an exciting chapter, no doubt—but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming, exhausting, and even a little scary. If you’re feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety, you’re not alone.
Here’s some honest, heartfelt advice to help you not just survive pharmacy school—but actually enjoy the journey and grow through it.
Time Management Isn’t Just a Skill—It’s Survival
Between classes, exams, assignments, part-time jobs, co-curriculars, family, and some kind of social life (hopefully), you’ll quickly realize that managing your time isn’t optional—it’s everything.
Start with finding a system that works for you. Whether it’s a physical planner or a calendar app, consistency is key. Time-blocking your day or using simple techniques like the Pomodoro method (25 minutes focused, 5-minute break) can make a huge difference.
One student shared how overwhelming the workload felt in the beginning. But once she started prioritizing her time and organizing her week in advance, things slowly started to feel manageable again. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being intentional.
Say Yes to New Opportunities
Pharmacy school isn’t just about memorizing drug names and passing exams. It’s your chance to explore what kind of pharmacist you want to be. The profession is wide—clinical, retail, research, public health, and so much more.
Join student organizations. Attend guest lectures. Shadow a pharmacist in a field you know nothing about. One student said that getting exposure to different areas helped her decide her future path—and reassured her that pharmacy was the right choice after all.
Even if you’re unsure, say yes. Step into new spaces. You might be surprised where you feel most inspired.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
This one’s important. Pharmacy school is tough. It’s okay to admit that. It doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
Some of the most successful students are the ones who built strong support systems early on. Whether it’s joining a study group, confiding in a classmate, or finally showing up to office hours—don’t try to do it all on your own.
One student shared how she never thought she’d be the type to ask for help. But when she started going to her professors for guidance and connecting with her peers, things became so much easier—and less lonely.
Remember, everyone around you is going through similar struggles. Don’t isolate yourself. Lean in. Connect. Support one another.
You’re More Capable Than You Think
At the end of the day, pharmacy school is challenging for a reason—you’re training to take on a critical role in healthcare. But every late-night study session, every exam, and every tough moment is shaping you into a stronger, smarter, more capable version of yourself.
Also Read : From High School to Pharmacy School: Your Guide to 0-6 Programs
