PharmD Archives | 国产主播 110+ years in education. 50,000 alumni across the globe. Infinite opportunities. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 17:51:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png PharmD Archives | 国产主播 32 32 WCU PharmD Grad Reflects on Tight-Knit Community and Career Ahead /blog/wcu-pharmd-grad-reflects-on-tight-knit-community-and-career-ahead Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:00:28 +0000 /?p=28421

Recent 国产主播 doctor of pharmacy graduate Victoria S. had considered nursing at one point 鈥 her family has strong ties to 国产主播鈥檚 nursing program 鈥 but an internship in a Long Beach hospital helped her realize that wasn鈥檛 her path. 鈥淚 give nurses so much props for what they do, but […]

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Recent 国产主播 doctor of pharmacy graduate Victoria S. had considered nursing at one point 鈥 her family has strong ties to 国产主播鈥檚 nursing program 鈥 but an internship in a Long Beach hospital helped her realize that wasn鈥檛 her path.

鈥淚 give nurses so much props for what they do, but I enjoy the clinical side of drugs and helping patients manage their medications,鈥 she said.

鈥淚 started my pharmacy journey (with a major retail pharmacy chain) as a pharmacy technician, and I currently am still working for them,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hey offered me a position after I graduated. I鈥檓 just waiting to take my boards and then I鈥檓 going to be a licensed pharmacist.鈥

It was her family鈥檚 experience with WCU that introduced her to the university. The availability of a Doctor of Pharmacy program sealed the deal.

“Because of the connections you have with your faculty鈥 they鈥檙e more willing to push you towards your goals,鈥 she said, noting the one-on-one professor time, and even weekend support from faculty.

She also found value in WCU鈥檚 peer mentorship system. 鈥淵ou can actually work with the cohort above you and have help from your peers, not just from faculty and student advisers,鈥 she explained. That support 鈥 combined with her own perseverance 鈥 helped her navigate the program鈥檚 challenges.

For new students, Victoria鈥檚 advice is simple: Get involved.

鈥淛oin as much programs as you can,鈥 she said, naming groups like ACCP, ASHP, CHS, PAA, PHA, and the professional pharmacy fraternity PDC. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a way to connect with your cohorts, students above you, below you, and even alumni鈥 you can be connected with so many people around the U.S.鈥

She also recommends gaining real-world experience while in school. 鈥淢aybe like 8 to 16 hours a week is good enough just for you to be able to apply the knowledge you learn in class to your actual day-to-day at work,鈥 she said.

Victoria admits the journey can feel daunting at first. 鈥淚t might seem rough in the beginning, but definitely just persevere. You got this,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hree years 鈥 it鈥檚 going to fly by, and you鈥檙e going to be so excited, you鈥檙e going to be here standing right here.鈥

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WCU PharmD Graduate Overcame Barriers, Looks Ahead to Community Care聽 /blog/wcu-pharmd-graduate-overcame-barriers-looks-ahead-to-community-care Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:00:00 +0000 /?p=27570

When Varduhi O. walked across the stage at the Honda Center to receive her doctor of pharmacy degree from 国产主播, the moment marked far more than academic achievement. It was the culmination of years of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination.聽 A New Life and a New Language  Varduhi moved to the United States […]

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When Varduhi O. walked across the stage at the Honda Center to receive her doctor of pharmacy degree from 国产主播, the moment marked far more than academic achievement. It was the culmination of years of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination.聽

A New Life and a New Language 

Varduhi moved to the United States from Armenia at the age of 23 鈥 without knowing a word of English. 

鈥淚t鈥檚 a really big deal for me and for my family,鈥 she said. 

As a first-generation immigrant and now the first in her family to earn a doctoral degree, Varduhi鈥檚 success is a powerful example of what鈥檚 possible through hard work and grit. 

Balancing Pharmacy School and Motherhood 

Earning a PharmD is demanding for anyone 鈥 but Varduhi did it while raising two young daughters. For her, walking the graduation stage wasn鈥檛 just a personal milestone 鈥 it was a message to her children. 

鈥淚 want them to see how hard work and commitment will help you and others live in a better way,鈥 she said. 

Overcoming Doubt with Support 

Varduhi admitted there were moments of self-doubt, especially after giving birth during her second year of pharmacy school. 

鈥淚 failed my first exam,鈥 she said. 鈥淏ut Dr. Kasan motivated me and reminded me of my strengths. I鈥檓 so glad that I never gave up.鈥 

Her story is a reminder of how important mentorship and encouragement are in shaping student success. 

Finding Purpose in Community Pharmacy 

Today, Varduhi works at a major retail pharmacy, where she finds meaning in daily patient interactions. Though she trained in both hospital and retail settings, she found her passion aligned more with community pharmacy. 

鈥淲e are very accessible for patients,鈥 she explained. 鈥淓ven over the phone, they can call us and ask for advice.鈥 

Looking Ahead: Blending Pharmacy with Lifestyle Coaching 

Varduhi鈥檚 long-term vision is to open a clinic-style pharmacy 鈥 one that merges traditional pharmaceutical services with wellness and lifestyle coaching. 

鈥淚 want to help people live better, healthier lives, not just through medicine, but through education and support.鈥 

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Earn Your PharmD with Flexibility: Explore the Hybrid Program at 国产主播聽 /blog/earn-your-pharmd-with-flexibility-explore-the-hybrid-program-at-west-coast-university Mon, 21 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000 /?p=27045

If you鈥檙e passionate about pharmacy and looking for a more flexible path to your degree, 国产主播鈥檚 Hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program could be the right fit. It blends online learning with hands-on clinical training, designed for people who want a rigorous education without putting their personal or professional life on pause.  What […]

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If you鈥檙e passionate about pharmacy and looking for a more flexible path to your degree, 国产主播鈥檚 Hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program could be the right fit. It blends online learning with hands-on clinical training, designed for people who want a rigorous education without putting their personal or professional life on pause. 

What Is a Hybrid PharmD Program? 

A hybrid PharmD program allows you to complete much of your academic coursework online while still participating in labs and clinical rotations in person. At WCU, you鈥檒l learn foundational and advanced concepts through digital platforms, then apply your knowledge during scheduled campus-based lab sessions and real-world pharmacy practice experiences. 

This model offers the structure of a professional program with the flexibility modern students often need. 

Why Choose the Hybrid PharmD at 国产主播? 

Learn on Your Terms 

Whether you’re balancing a job, family, or other responsibilities, the hybrid format gives you more control over your schedule. You can complete lectures and assignments online, with in-person components built in at key points throughout each term. 

A Curriculum That Goes Beyond Textbooks 

WCU鈥檚 PharmD program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and is built around real-world application. You鈥檒l engage with case studies, interactive assignments, and group discussions that prepare you to think critically as a pharmacist. Simulation labs and clinical experiences ensure you’re not just learning the material but using it to solve problems and support patients. 

Real Clinical Experience Starts Early 

From community pharmacies to hospitals, your rotations will expose you to different pharmacy environments. These experiences help you discover where your interests lie and start building your professional network. You鈥檒l complete both Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) with guidance from licensed preceptors. 

Faculty Who Know Your Name 

Even in a hybrid setting, you’re never on your own. WCU faculty are available to answer questions, offer feedback, and mentor you throughout your academic journey. The program also includes access to student support services like tutoring, academic coaching, and career preparation. 

Learn in Los Angeles 

Your in-person labs take place at WCU鈥檚 Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, a facility equipped with advanced lab and simulation spaces. It’s a hub of innovation and collaboration where you can practice clinical skills and connect with classmates and faculty face to face. 

What Can You Do with a PharmD? 

A Doctor of Pharmacy degree opens the door to a wide range of careers. WCU graduates pursue roles in:

  • Hospital and clinical pharmacy
  • Ambulatory care 
  • Community pharmacies 
  • Managed care and health systems
  • Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
  • Public health and policy 

Pharmacists are also key members of interdisciplinary healthcare teams, often working closely with physicians, nurses, and other providers. 

Is This the Right Fit for You? 

The hybrid PharmD program at 国产主播 is ideal for motivated individuals who want a quality pharmacy education with more flexibility built in. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a career in pharmacy, this program gives you the tools and support to move forward. 

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WCU PharmD Onsite Immersive Week: Hands-On Learning, Service, and Connection聽 /blog/wcu-cgs-pharmd-onsite-intensive-week-hands-on-learning-service-and-connection Thu, 01 May 2025 16:00:06 +0000 /?p=25391

Hybrid PharmD students returned to 国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies for the Spring Trimester Immersive Week 鈥 an energizing blend of academic assessments, service learning, professional development, and face-to-face connection.  鈥淚t provides the faculty and associates the opportunity to engage face-to-face with the students and students to likewise engage with one another,鈥 WCU […]

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Hybrid PharmD students returned to 国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies for the Spring Trimester Immersive Week 鈥 an energizing blend of academic assessments, service learning, professional development, and face-to-face connection. 

鈥淚t provides the faculty and associates the opportunity to engage face-to-face with the students and students to likewise engage with one another,鈥 WCU School of Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo said. 鈥淚t is an important aspect of creating and maintaining the sense of community we all feel with one another.鈥  

Academic and Experiential Learning 

The week began with final exams, lab sessions, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), giving students 鈥 particularly those in the second-year cohort 鈥 a chance to apply what they’ve learned in real time. 

Second-term students also explored new technology through a Virtual Reality Pharmacy simulation and engaged in Interprofessional Education (IPE) by collaborating with Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students on patient care planning. 

鈥淭hey worked on a patient care plan together, understanding how each discipline plays a crucial role in patient care,鈥 WCU-CGS Student Advisor Annie Mouradian noted. 

Community Engagement 

Students stepped beyond campus to serve the local community at the St. Francis Center, where they provided blood pressure and diabetes risk screenings, offered health education, and supported food pantry operations. 

鈥淪tudents were able to apply their knowledge in real-world settings while also making a positive impact on the local community,鈥 Mouradian shared. 

Career Development 

Fifth-year students preparing for fall Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) attended a Career and Professionalism Workshop hosted by Career Services. They also took part in an informative session with Dr. Colleen Le-Leavitt, residency program director at Walgreens. Her team shared insights into California healthcare laws, upcoming legislation, and Walgreens鈥 ongoing advocacy with the Board of Pharmacy, helping students better understand the broader landscape of pharmacy practice. 

Celebration and Reflection 

The week wrapped with the annual Honors and Awards Ceremony, recognizing student achievements and offering a moment of celebration and reflection. 

鈥淲e ended the week celebrating their achievements, reflecting on all they鈥檝e accomplished and how far they鈥檝e come in their journey,鈥 Mouradian added. 

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Celebrating Excellence at the WCU-CGS CPhA Awards Recognition Ceremony聽 /blog/celebrating-excellence-at-the-wcu-cgs-cpha-awards-recognition-ceremony Thu, 17 Apr 2025 16:00:37 +0000 /?p=25597

国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies hosted its highly anticipated California Pharmacists Association Awards recognition ceremony this March, where several individuals and organizations were honored for their outstanding contributions to the field of pharmacy.  This year鈥檚 PharmD ceremony highlighted the incredible accomplishments of both students and faculty, with a special focus on the role of […]

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国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies hosted its highly anticipated California Pharmacists Association Awards recognition ceremony this March, where several individuals and organizations were honored for their outstanding contributions to the field of pharmacy. 

This year鈥檚 PharmD ceremony highlighted the incredible accomplishments of both students and faculty, with a special focus on the role of mentorship, innovation, and dedication to patient care. 

Dr. Ani Avoundjian: New Practitioner of the Year 

Among the awardees was Dr. Ani Avoundjian, an assistant professor at WCU, who received the prestigious New Practitioner of the Year award at the state level from the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA). In an emotional reflection on her achievement, Dr. Avoundjian shared, “I am beyond honored to be recognized as New Practitioner of the Year at the state level by the California Pharmacists Association (CPhA)! This award is especially meaningful as it reflects the impact of my early years in pharmacy and the passion I have for patient care, advocacy, and mentorship.” 

Dr. Avoundjian’s recognition is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of her continuous dedication to improving patient outcomes, advocating for the pharmacy profession, and fostering the next generation of pharmacists. 

鈥淪tepping into this profession has been an incredible journey, and I鈥檓 truly grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and students who have shaped me along the way,鈥 she added. 

A Recognition for the Pharmacy Community 

This award is a testament to her hard work, but Dr. Avoundjian emphasizes that the honor is not only hers. She credits the larger pharmacy community for its collective drive towards excellence, saying, 鈥淭his recognition is not just about me 鈥 it鈥檚 about the pharmacy community that continuously pushes boundaries, uplifts one another, and strives for excellence. I鈥檓 proud to be part of a profession that is making a difference every day.鈥 

WCU and San Fernando Valley Pharmacists鈥 Association Shine 

In addition to Dr. Avoundjian鈥檚 individual success, the ceremony also celebrated notable achievements from the 国产主播 and the San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association teams. The WCU PharmD program received several awards, showcasing the strong leadership and dedication of its students and faculty. The university was awarded the Innovative Chapter of the Year and Chapter of Excellence titles. These awards were largely due to the exceptional leadership of WCU鈥檚 student chapter president, Janna Mozannar, who has been instrumental in driving these initiatives forward. 

The Local Chapter of Excellence award was also presented to the San Fernando Valley Pharmacists’ Association, under the leadership of Dr. Avoundjian and Dr. Anna Chaparyan. Their tireless efforts in creating meaningful local initiatives have made a significant impact on the broader pharmacy community. 

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Pharmacy 

Reflecting on the accomplishments of the WCU and San Fernando Valley Pharmacists鈥 Association teams, Dr. Avoundjian expressed immense pride in the achievements of the students and leaders involved, stating, “I couldn鈥檛 be prouder of our students and leaders for their dedication and hard work.” 

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Exploring Leadership and Innovation at the 2025 California Pharmacy Leadership Seminar聽 /blog/exploring-leadership-and-innovation-at-the-2025-california-pharmacy-leadership-seminar Thu, 20 Feb 2025 16:00:26 +0000 /?p=23469

The 2025 California Pharmacy Leadership Seminar brought together aspiring pharmacy student leaders and industry professionals to engage in dynamic discussions about the future of pharmacy. The seminar not only provided a platform for students to share their ideas but also fostered an environment of collaboration, leadership development, and innovation.聽 鈥淸It was] such a dynamic and […]

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The 2025 brought together aspiring pharmacy student leaders and industry professionals to engage in dynamic discussions about the future of pharmacy. The seminar not only provided a platform for students to share their ideas but also fostered an environment of collaboration, leadership development, and innovation.聽

鈥淸It was] such a dynamic and inspiring event, bringing together student pharmacists and industry professionals to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore the future of pharmacy,鈥 国产主播 PharmD student Albert S. said after attending the event.  

His team from WCU’s Center for Graduate Studies had the opportunity to present their VR pharmacy project, which focused on the potential applications of virtual reality in pharmacy education, patient counseling, and medication management.聽聽

鈥淲e explained how VR could create realistic training environments for students, allowing them to practice complex scenarios safely before working with real patients,鈥 Albert explained.  

This innovative approach to education was met with enthusiasm, as many professionals saw the potential for VR to improve patient engagement and make medication education more interactive and accessible. 

鈥淎ttendees were especially intrigued by how VR could improve patient engagement, making medication education more interactive and accessible,鈥 Albert noted. 

Beyond their presentation, Albert found great value in collaborating with fellow student leaders from various schools. 

鈥淥ne of the best aspects of the seminar was working alongside other pharmacy student leaders from different schools,鈥 he shared. The opportunity to engage in discussions about what makes a great leader and how to contribute to the future of pharmacy was particularly meaningful to him.  

鈥淎 great leader isn鈥檛 just someone who makes decisions. It鈥檚 someone who can bring people together, listen to different perspectives, and lead with fairness and respect,鈥 he reflected.  

One of the most memorable activities at the seminar was the 鈥淟etter to Self鈥 exercise. This reflection exercise gave Albert a chance to look back on his personal and professional growth. This moment of introspection was a meaningful way to close the seminar and encouraged students to continue their leadership journeys with renewed focus and purpose. 

鈥淲riting a letter to my past self gave me the chance to recognize my growth, acknowledge the challenges I鈥檝e overcome, and set new goals for the future,鈥 he said. 鈥淚t was a fantastic experience that reinforced the power of leadership and innovation in shaping the future of pharmacy. We represented our leadership skills and knowledge.鈥 

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国产主播 Shines at National Conferences: Innovations in Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, and Teaching /blog/west-coast-university-shines-at-national-conferences-innovations-in-occupational-therapy-pharmacy-and-teaching Fri, 26 Jul 2024 15:30:00 +0000 /?p=18776

国产主播 showcased its commitment to academic excellence and innovation at several national conferences, with impactful presentations in occupational therapy, pharmacy, and teaching. Highlights included groundbreaking research on sleep disturbances in breast cancer survivors, national awards for pharmacy safety initiatives, and pioneering efforts in integrating a WebXR metaverse for immersive learning. These achievements underscore the university's dedication to fostering evidence-based practice, client-centered care, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

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At 国产主播, innovation and collaboration are the heartbeats of our academic community. This ethos was brilliantly showcased through the diverse and impactful presentations delivered by our faculty and students at various prestigious conferences nationwide. These presentations, backed by the 国产主播 RDS Conference Presentation Grants, underscored the dedication and ingenuity that drive our institution forward. 

Occupational Therapy: Addressing Sleep Disturbances 

At the 2024 American Occupational Therapy Association Inspire Annual Conference and Expo in Orlando, Florida, Dr. Manisha Sheth, along with her dedicated students Thea A., Anne A., Chris G., and Nicole T., presented their groundbreaking study on the impact of breast cancer treatments on sleep among survivors. This mixed-methodology research highlighted the significance of sleep in the recovery and overall well-being of breast cancer survivors. Their findings emphasized the need for personalized, client-centered interventions to address sleep disturbances, promoting holistic health and quality of life. The presentation not only shed light on a critical aspect of survivorship but also reinforced the core principles of occupational therapy, showcasing its vital role in evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Pharmacy: Celebrating Innovation and Safety 

Meanwhile, the School of Pharmacy made a significant mark at the APhA Annual and Exposition in Orlando, Florida. Students Janna T., Coria M., Neil A., and Tigran K. proudly represented 国产主播, earning national recognition for their exceptional work. Their innovative project, which included a captivating PharmFlix film, won the Most Inspirational award. Their efforts in promoting OTC Medication Safety earned them a Regional Award. These accolades highlighted the students’ commitment to advancing pharmacy practice through creative and impactful initiatives. The conference provided them with invaluable networking opportunities and furthered their professional development, reinforcing the university’s reputation for excellence on a national stage. 

Teaching and Learning: Exploring the Metaverse

The Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning Director Randy DeWitt also took a bold step into the future at the Southern XR Summit in Cedar City, Utah. Their presentation, “The Immersive Learning Playbook,” showcased 国产主播’s pioneering journey in integrating a WebXR metaverse within a healthcare-focused educational setting. Through engaging and immersive projects developed in the FrameVR environment, the presentation demonstrated the innovative strategies and collaborative efforts that are transforming the learning experience for students and faculty alike. This initiative exemplifies the university’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance education and foster creativity.

Occupational Therapy: Promoting Independence 

 Dr. Manisha Sheth returned to the spotlight at the AOTA Inspire Conference with another significant presentation on the effectiveness of a universal oral hygiene program in promoting independence among inpatient rehab patients. This mixed-methodology study underscored the importance of activities of daily living (ADL) and functional independence in occupational therapy. By focusing on essential self-care skills, the program highlighted the value of evidence-based practice, client-centered care, and interdisciplinary collaboration in enhancing patient outcomes and fostering holistic health. 

Pharmacy: A Unique Case Study 

Finally, at the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists Conference in Orlando, Florida, WCU faculty Parna Haghparast, with the collaboration of P4 student Matthew N., presented a fascinating case report on treatment-resistant priapism in a 61-year-old male. This rare and unusual presentation, triggered by a combination of psychiatric medications, underscored the need for vigilant monitoring of adverse effects. Their work, soon to be published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, highlighted the importance of individualized treatment approaches and thorough patient assessment in managing complex cases, contributing valuable insights to the field of psychiatric pharmacy. 

These presentations, supported by the 国产主播 RDS Conference Presentation Grants, are a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration. By addressing critical issues and pushing the boundaries of knowledge, our faculty and students continue to make a profound impact on their fields and the broader community.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How is WCU contributing to research in occupational therapy for cancer survivors?

A: WCU researchers presented a groundbreaking study at the American Occupational Therapy Association Conference on the impact of breast cancer treatments on sleep among survivors. The study emphasized the need for personalized, client-centered interventions to address sleep disturbances, promoting holistic health and quality of life for cancer survivors.

Q: What innovative approaches is WCU taking in pharmacy education?

A: WCU pharmacy students showcased their creativity at the APhA Annual and Exposition, winning awards for their PharmFlix film and OTC Medication Safety project. These initiatives demonstrate WCU’s commitment to advancing pharmacy practice through innovative and impactful educational approaches.

Q: How is WCU integrating advanced technology into healthcare education?

A: WCU is pioneering the integration of WebXR metaverse technology in healthcare education. The university’s presentation at the Southern XR Summit showcased immersive learning projects developed in the FrameVR environment, demonstrating innovative strategies to enhance the learning experience.

Q: Where can I learn more about WCU鈥檚 occupational therapy and pharmacy programs?

A: On our website, you can find all kinds of helpful information about our PharmD, MSOT, and OTD programs. If you have any follow-up questions, attend an information session to connect with one of our knowledgeable advisors.

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5 Things to Know About Becoming a Pharmacist /blog/5-things-to-know-about-becoming-a-pharmacist Thu, 25 Jul 2024 21:53:21 +0000 /?p=18738 Becoming a Pharmacist

Embarking on a career as a pharmacist offers a unique blend of healthcare expertise andpatient-centered care. Each day, pharmacists work to ensure medication safety, effectivelycommunicate with patients, and provide essential medication counseling. If you鈥檙e curious about becoming a pharmacist, you should know that they do much more thanhand off medications and verify insurance coverage. A […]

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Becoming a Pharmacist

Embarking on a career as a pharmacist offers a unique blend of healthcare expertise and
patient-centered care. Each day, pharmacists work to ensure medication safety, effectively
communicate with patients, and provide essential medication counseling.

If you鈥檙e curious about becoming a pharmacist, you should know that they do much more than
hand off medications and verify insurance coverage. A pharmacy career also doesn鈥檛 confine
you to working in retail settings alone. In fact, pharmacists engage in a combination of
administrative, technical, and people-centered tasks, and are found within the :

  • Academic Pharmacists
  • Ambulatory Care Pharmacists
  • Clinical Pharmacists
  • Consultant Pharmacists
  • Hospital Pharmacists
  • Industrial Pharmacists

Before you begin working towards this career, consider these five key elements of becoming a pharmacist. These crucial factors allow you to better weigh each aspect of this demanding 鈥 yet rewarding 鈥 healthcare career.

1. What Pharmacists Really Do: Roles and Responsibilities

The answer to the question 鈥渨hat does a pharmacist do?鈥 might surprise you. That鈥檚 because
pharmacists carry out tasks beyond just managing medications and communicating with patients.
In their day-to-day work, pharmacists may perform such as conducting quality assurance, overseeing pharmacy operations, optimizing patient medication dosages, communicating drug interactions to colleagues, and/or participating in clinical trials for a new medication brand.

2. Educational Requirements for Pharmacists

Regardless of the type of pharmacist you want to become, you need to earn a minimum of a
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) to serve as a licensed pharmacist.
However, your education is one portion of the larger picture, meaning you鈥檒l also need to gain hands-on experience, pass the , and take state-specific licensing exams. While the specific requirements for becoming a pharmacist vary from state to state, the general path is the same:

  1. Complete prerequisite coursework in areas such as math and science.
  2. Gain optional hands-on experience in the healthcare field. While enrolled as an undergraduate or transitioning to a graduate program, you should take on an internship, volunteer, or shadow a licensed pharmacist to bolster your chances of being admitted to a PharmD program.
  3. Earn your Doctor of Pharmacy degree. This postgraduate degree generally takes four years to complete; however, some accelerated PharmD programs allow you to graduate in as little as three years.
  4. Enroll in a residency. While optional, residency programs can make or break your pharmacy career as they provide you with networking opportunities, advanced clinical training, and preparation for certifications beyond your PharmD program.
  5. Study and pass the NAPLEX. This is a six-hour exam delivered in a computerized form. It covers several major areas of pharmacy practice, which are divided into six sections.
  6. Apply for state licensure in the state where you intend to practice. Prepare to provide information such as your transcripts, relevant exam scores, and additional documentation.
  7. Maintain licensure. Your state’s board of pharmacy mandates that you periodically renew your relevant pharmacist licenses. This typically involves enrolling in continuing education (CE) credits or hours.

3. Skills and Traits of a Successful Pharmacist

Early on, you should familiarize yourself with the essential skills and traits required to thrive in this healthcare field. While you don鈥檛 have to have these qualities, developing them can significantly benefit your career. Take a look at the pharmacists need to succeed:

  • Ability to Multitask
  • Cable of Keeping Calm Under Stress
  • Capacity to Manage
  • Eagerness for Continuous Learning
  • Exceptional Communication Skills
  • Keen Attention to Detail
  • Math Skills
  • Science Skills
  • Solid Organizational Skills
  • Strong Ethical Judgment

It鈥檚 vital to remember that if you鈥檙e just starting in a PharmD program or still deciding which one
to choose, don鈥檛 get discouraged by the requirements. Advancements in science continually
evolve the pharmacy field, requiring licensed pharmacists鈥攋ust like new students鈥攖o constantly
brush up on their skills. Try to build on your strengths and bear in mind that a strong thirst for
learning can get you far in your career.

4. You鈥檒l Engage in Dynamic Work

Pharmacists, especially those in retail settings, are constantly on the move checking inventory,
filling prescriptions, interacting with customers, and leading teams. It鈥檚 a dynamic profession that
keeps you occupied throughout your shift.
Some retail pharmacists might also work weekend shifts to meet the diverse healthcare needs
of their community 鈥 which can mean responding to an uptick in influenza variants or the rapid
onset of seasonal allergies brought on by weather changes.
Because populations depend on these healthcare professionals, pharmacists stay both mentally
sharp and physically fit. A career as a pharmacist is a perfect match for individuals who thrive in
an active role.

5. Lifestyle Considerations for a Pharmacist Career

If you already understand the educational requirements for becoming a pharmacist, now is the time to reflect on how the profession’s demands might align with your personal commitments and lifestyle. Assess factors such as job prospects, evolving work environments, work-life balance, and ongoing education needs to determine if pursuing this health career is right for you.

For example, weigh the rewards against the sacrifices you may need to make. Could attending all of your classes full-time and in-person pose challenges? If so, a hybrid PharmD program may be the right fit for you.

For additional insight, review the WCU PharmD career guide.

Prepare for a Fulfilling Career Through WCU鈥檚 PharmD Program

Your time is important, so choose a career that aligns with your strengths and passions.
If you鈥檙e looking to become a pharmacist, 国产主播鈥檚 hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy program can be completed in as little as 33 months, offering you the flexibility needed for success in your busy life.

The WCU School of Pharmacy is located at the Center for Graduate Studies in the heart of Los Angeles. Enroll in a program that helps ensure that you gain the hands-on experience you need to become a skilled and confident pharmacist!

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PharmD Student Never Forgot Extra Attention Pharmacist Gave Her Grandmother /blog/pharmd-student-never-forgot-extra-attention-pharmacist-gave-her-grandmother Tue, 27 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000 /?p=15998

Taking time to ensure patients are comfortable with their medication isn鈥檛 something Janna M. had to be taught as a 国产主播 doctor of pharmacy student. That was a lesson she learned on her own a long time ago. As a child, her grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer while visiting from Lebanon and […]

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Taking time to ensure patients are comfortable with their medication isn鈥檛 something Janna M. had to be taught as a 国产主播 doctor of pharmacy student. That was a lesson she learned on her own a long time ago.

As a child, her grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer while visiting from Lebanon and ended up staying with Janna’s family in California for five years. During hospital visits, Janna noticed how the pharmacist would take extra care to make sure her grandmother 鈥 who speaks only Arabic 鈥 knew precisely what was going on with her care.  

鈥淪he would really take the time to explain things that the other healthcare professionals couldn’t just because there was that language barrier,鈥 Janna said. 鈥淚 saw the compassion behind that pharmacist, and that really stuck with me, so I became a (pharmacy technician) and then was encouraged to come back to school to become a pharmacist.鈥

Born and raised in Burbank, Janna had looked at pharmacy schools across the country before picking 国产主播, which was located just a few miles from her home. Janna said she liked how engaged the professors were in her educational journey and appreciated WCU鈥檚 accelerated program.

鈥淲e are not only a three-year program, but we are also a hybrid as well, so we have some students that aren’t even in state and just come in one week during the semester. It really is flexible for those students, maybe some moms at home that they’ve always wanted to go back to school, but it couldn’t fit with their busy schedules,鈥 she said. 鈥淲ell, now they can do that.鈥

Currently working as a pharmacy intern at a community clinic, Janna said the best part of her day is spending a few extra minutes with patients and seeing how grateful they are, or receiving positive feedback about how she handled a potentially tricky situation.

“That’s kind of like the gratification for the day,” she said, “and I’m like, ‘That’s why I’m here, that’s why I’m doing this.鈥”

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WCU School of Pharmacy Opens Doors To Prospective Students /blog/wcu-school-of-pharmacy-opens-doors-to-prospective-students Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:30:00 +0000 /?p=15736

The 国产主播 School of Pharmacy held its second annual open house this January to give prospective students a tour of the campus and hands-on demonstrations of some of the skills they would master as doctors of pharmacy. 鈥淚 hope that students can appreciate what we have to offer here at 国产主播, […]

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The 国产主播 School of Pharmacy held its second annual open house this January to give prospective students a tour of the campus and hands-on demonstrations of some of the skills they would master as doctors of pharmacy.

鈥淚 hope that students can appreciate what we have to offer here at 国产主播, being the only accelerated hybrid program here in this part of the country,鈥 WCU Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo said. 鈥淚t’s a fantastic opportunity for them to see the campus, see what we have to offer, and then decide that this is the school they want to attend.鈥

After a brief introduction, attendees were broken into groups to tour the campus, including stops to see classrooms, the campus library, the retail pharmacy lab, and the newly opened physician assistant suite, where pharmacy students undergo simulation activities to practice scenarios in a hospital setting. The tour’s highlight was the group鈥檚 visit to the compounding lab, where students combined ingredients like bee鈥檚 wax, sweet almond oil and lavender extract to produce homemade lip balm.

鈥淏eing an accelerated hybrid program, students can graduate in approximately 33 months,鈥 Wargo said.

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