Choosing a pharmacy school is a pivotal step in shaping one’s career. For Pharm.D. student Lauren Isaacs, Jefferson University College of Pharmacy stood out for its small class size, interprofessional learning environment, and location in the vibrant city of Philadelphia. Through unexpected academic turns and key mentors, Lauren found a passion for combining chemistry with patient care.
How did you choose your pharmacy school?
When I was applying to pharmacy schools, I prioritized smaller class sizes. Jefferson offered exactly that, allowing for close interaction with peers and professors. The school’s location in Philadelphia was also a major draw. I was especially attracted to the opportunity for interprofessional education with students in other health disciplines, which Jefferson strongly emphasizes.
Why did you decide to pursue your career?
I originally entered college as an English Literature major with no intention of pursuing science. At Allegheny College, a liberal arts school, I took an introductory chemistry course to fulfill a science requirement. That course ended up becoming a turning point. I loved it so much that I eventually declared a chemistry minor. My interest in pharmacy sparked from a chemical kinetics homework problem involving a pharmacist. That winter break, I researched the pharmacy profession using resources like Pharm4Me, and I realized pharmacy merged my interests in chemistry and patient care.
Who helped you along the way?
My former manager, Dr. Alexis Hart, helped cultivate my interest in academia while I worked as a writing and grammar consultant. Dr. Cynthia Sanoski, now at the University of Iowa, encouraged me to pursue pharmacy academia and supported my acceptance into the AACP Aspiring Academics Program. Dr. Elena Umland at Jefferson has introduced me to different academic paths within pharmacy, while my colleagues at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania have exposed me to various inpatient pharmacy roles.
What is your favorite part of pharmacy school?
My favorite part is connecting with students from pharmacy and other allied health fields. Jefferson has a strong interprofessional culture, and through the Jefferson Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education, I’ve worked with peers across disciplines. These collaborations have taught me a lot about teamwork and the impact we can make together on patient care in the Philadelphia community.
What do you find most challenging about pharmacy school?
Balancing academic and non-academic commitments has been the biggest challenge — school, extracurriculars, work, family, and social time. I use a calendar to stay organized and ensure I meet all my responsibilities.
What advice would you give to prospective pharmacy students?
Don’t count yourself out of anything you haven’t tried. You’re in control of your story. Take every opportunity, challenge yourself, and remain ambitious. Embrace what’s new and unknown — that’s where growth happens.
What do you wish you knew before applying?
I had no community pharmacy experience before starting school and felt behind. Looking back, I wish I’d known that having no prior experience doesn’t put you at a disadvantage. Schools like Jefferson are designed to support students from all academic backgrounds and prepare them to succeed in the field.
Even though I moved from humanities to science, I use my English major skills daily — summarizing patient encounters, analyzing data, conceptualizing course material, and communicating effectively with peers.
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