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. Consideration for each program’s accreditation status, reputation, faculty expertise, student engagement opportunities, and focus on incorporating diversity played a role in my decision. I wanted to attend a program that not only provided an exceptional pharmacy education but also embodied a sense of belonging, community, and family into its students. I found that at Auburn. From the moment I reach 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 had decided at that point to pursue a career in the medical field. Pharmacy allows me to utilize and apply my love of biochemistry in my work and provides an impactful place to make a difference in people’s everyday life.

Who has helped you as you explored possible career paths?

My undergraduate mentors and professors were essential in helping me to explore possible career opportunities that incorporated my interest in the medical field with my love of science. I utilized my campus’ career center and was really proactive in reaching out to local pharmacists to seek information 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 the 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 career in pharmacy 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 allowing for the completion of a bachelor’s degree in the process of receiving a PharmD.

To learn more about individual program requirements, visit the PharmCAS School Directory.

What advice would you give to students interested in attending pharmacy or graduate school?

Be confident. You got this!

Outreach and research! Start by connecting with the school counselor or career center at your school. They often have resources and information to broaden your understanding of pharmacy as a career. Next try reaching out to pharmacists in your life. Pharmacists love to talk about how awesome pharmacy is and may have shadowing opportunities. Try calling ahead to schedule a conversation with a local pharmacist if you do not know one personally. Then I would encourage you to make a list of what you are looking for in a program. Use this list to help you narrow down your application choices. Tour the campus if you can. This will help you get a sense of the student and faculty morale. Vibes are important! Finally, start prepping for your interview as soon as possible. Have an elevator pitch ready and rehearsed. During the interview remember you are interviewing the school just as much as they are interviewing you so ask thoughtful questions. Be confident. You got this!

We thank Lila for sharing her story. For those interested in a similarly fulfilling career in pharmacy, check out the Pharm4Me website for valuable information on becoming a pharmacist, and read more inspirational stories on the Pharm4Me Blog.