Introduction
Dr. Deja Finley, Pharm.D., fulfilled her childhood dream by earning a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's (SIUE) School of Pharmacy in May 2020. Since the age of 13, she aspired to positively impact the world through her passion for math and science. Finley believes in the trusted role of pharmacists and is committed to serving her community by providing quality healthcare. Currently, she is a Clinical Assistant Professor at SIUE’s School of Pharmacy, where she also provides primary care and internal medicine services at SIHF, a federally qualified health center. Recognized with the ImPaCT Mentor Award, Dr. Finley is committed to advancing healthcare, education, and community engagement. Read more about her work here.
Why Pharmacy
I chose pharmacy because caring for others has always been at the heart of who I am. Growing up, I was deeply inspired by Dr. Caleb Witt, a community pharmacist from my church, who had an incredible way of connecting with patients and making a real difference in their lives. Watching him, I saw firsthand how pharmacists are not only the most accessible healthcare professionals but also among the most trusted. I wanted to be that person—someone patients could turn to for comfort, guidance, and support in their health journey. Pharmacy is more than a career to me; it’s a calling to serve, uplift, and impact lives every day.
Career Journey
From the moment I was in high school, I knew I wanted to become a pharmacist. I tailored my undergraduate education to meet the prerequisites for pharmacy school, earning a BS in Chemistry before pursuing my PharmD. During pharmacy school, I discovered a deeper passion—teaching and connecting with others. Inspired by my professors, most notably, Dr. Lakesha Butler and Dr. Jessica Kerr, I decided to specialize in education and applied for a residency. It was during this time that everything clicked. As I balanced teaching with direct patient care, I realized that academia was where I truly belonged. The ability to provide autonomous patient care while also shaping the next generation of pharmacists made it the perfect fit. Along the way, I was guided by dedicated mentors who continue to inspire and impact me today, reinforcing my passion for both education and patient care.
Current Role and Responsibilities
My workweek is a blend of clinical practice, teaching, research, and mentorship—each day bringing something new and fulfilling. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesday mornings are dedicated to patient care in an outpatient clinic, where I work alongside an interdisciplinary team of family physicians, nurses, and behavioral health specialists. As a clinical pharmacist specializing in maternal and reproductive health, I help manage medications for safety and effectiveness during the perinatal period, educate mothers and caregivers, provide and discuss vaccines, conduct home visits, assist in gestational diabetes care, and help develop birthing plans that include pain management strategies and postnatal birth control options.
On Wednesday afternoons, I shift into an educator role, leading didactic sessions for medical residents on medication-related topics. The rest of the week is dedicated to teaching at the school of pharmacy, where I primarily focus on Pharmacy Skills and pharmacotherapeutics lectures related to women’s health. In addition to teaching, I stay engaged in research projects, mentor students, advise professional organizations, and serve on multiple committees. I also have the privilege of precepting two pharmacy students during their Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience rotations and mentoring a PGY1 resident longitudinally each year. Each day is dynamic and rewarding, allowing me to combine my love for patient care, education, and mentorship in a truly meaningful way.
Challenges
The most challenging part of my career is balancing the many responsibilities that come with my diverse roles. Juggling clinical practice, teaching, research, mentorship, and service commitments requires careful time management and the ability to switch between different mindsets throughout the day. On any given day, I may be caring for patients in the clinic, lecturing in the classroom, mentoring students, conducting research, and serving on committees—all of which demand my full attention and energy. While I love the variety and impact of my work, it can sometimes be overwhelming to balance everything while ensuring I give my best to each responsibility. However, despite the challenges, the fulfillment I get from making a difference in both patient care and student education makes it all worthwhile.
Rewards
The most rewarding aspect of my career is the impact I have on both students and patients. In the clinic, I get to make a real difference in patients' lives—helping them navigate complex health challenges, ensuring safe and effective medication use, and empowering them with knowledge to make informed decisions about their care. Building trust and seeing the relief, gratitude, and confidence in a patient after a meaningful interaction reminds me why I chose this path.
One of the most impactful moments in my career involved a pregnant patient with schizophrenia who had lost trust in the healthcare system. She tested positive for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and a UTI but refused treatment, fearing it would harm her baby. The clinic staff turned to me, knowing I had a way of building trust with patients. After nearly an hour of conversation and education, she finally agreed to take the medications—but had no way to get to the clinic. When I offered a home visit, she told me she was homeless. Instead, I asked where she usually spent her time, picked up her medications, and met her at her hangout spot to administer them. The patient was grateful for the compassion I showed, and the clinic staff appreciated my dedication.
Work/Life Balance
Managing work-life balance is an ongoing journey, especially with the many responsibilities I juggle. I’ve learned that setting boundaries and being intentional with my time is key. I prioritize what truly matters by staying organized, planning ahead, and making sure to carve out time for myself and my loved ones.
I also embrace flexibility—some weeks are more demanding than others, but I allow myself grace and adjust as needed. I make self-care a priority, whether it’s taking time to rest, exercise, or engage in activities that bring me joy. Most importantly, I remind myself that I can’t pour from an empty cup. By maintaining balance, I can show up as my best self for my patients, students, and colleagues while still nurturing my personal life.
Advice for Students and Aspiring Professionals
My advice to any student interested in a similar career path is to pursue a residency—it provides a concentrated educational experience that is truly unmatched. Residency will refine your clinical skills, expose you to diverse patient care experiences, and prepare you for roles in both practice and academia.
Pharmacy is a unique and evolving field where you have the power to carve out your own path. If you see a niche that excites you, go after it. If it doesn’t exist, create it. Be bold in shaping your career to fit your passions.
Most importantly, build and maintain your network. Stay connected—to your school, professional organizations, mentors, and classmates. Opportunities often come through relationships, and your network can be one of your greatest assets. Be open to growth, flexible in your journey, and confident in the impact you can make.