Meet Lila, a passionate fourth-year Pharm.D. student at Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy. During her APPE rotation with the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, Lila opened up about her inspiring journey to find the perfect pharmacy school—and how, with the guidance of mentors, she discovered her true “Pharmily.”
How did you choose your pharmacy school, college, or graduate program?
Choosing a pharmacy school involved several key factors for me. I considered each program’s accreditation status, reputation, faculty expertise, student engagement opportunities, and their commitment to incorporating diversity. I wanted to attend a program that not only provided an exceptional pharmacy education but also embodied a sense of belonging, community, and family among its students. I found that at Auburn. From the moment I reached out to inquire about the pharmacy program, AU made me feel like a part of the “Pharmily.”
Why did you decide to pursue your career?
My current career path was chosen as a second career. I lost a loved one to a medication error and decided at that point to pursue a career in the medical field. Pharmacy allows me to apply my love of biochemistry in my work and provides an impactful opportunity to make a difference in people’s everyday lives.
Who has helped you as you explored possible career paths?
My undergraduate mentors and professors were essential in helping me explore career opportunities that combined my interest in the medical field with my love of science. I also utilized my campus career center and was proactive in reaching out to local pharmacists to learn about their experiences and passion for pharmacy.
What is your favorite part of pharmacy school, college, or graduate education?
My favorite part of pharmacy school is giving back to my community. I love that I get to teach people about what pharmacy can do for them. The scope of pharmacy is ever broadening and touches facets in every major industry.
What do you find most challenging about pharmacy or graduate school?
Every pharmacy program involves a high level of commitment to a demanding curriculum to prepare students for their roles outside of the classroom. I am what is considered a non-traditional student, so for me, the most challenging part about starting my pharmacy career was finding a healthy balance between the home, work, and school components of my life.
What do you wish you had known before applying to pharmacy or graduate school?
Different programs have different admission requirements. Something I wish I would have known before applying to pharmacy school was that not every program requires a bachelor’s degree for admission. This is a common misconception that many people have. Some pharmacy schools even offer bridge-style programs that allow for the completion of a bachelor’s degree in the process of earning a PharmD.
Also Read : From Hospital Bed to Pharmacy Lead: Dr. Jorie Kreitman’s Inspiring Journey of Compassion and Care
