Caroline Petrie

Caroline Petrie in front of red Temple School of Pharmacy wall

Caroline Petrie

Current degree program: PharmD

Projected graduation year: 2027

Where did you grow up? Clinton, New Jersey

Where did you complete your prerequisite courses? I earned a bachelor's in Biology and a bachelor's in Chemistry from the College of New Jersey.

Tell us about yourself: I love exploring the city, going on runs, and spending time with friends and family. I’m happiest near the ocean—so any place with a beach is my ideal getaway. One of my favorite things about living in Philly is the energy of its sporting events, especially cheering on the 76ers and the Phillies!

Why did you choose TUSP over other pharmacy schools? I chose TUSP because I wanted a program that would challenge me clinically while also giving me access to diverse patient care experiences. Being in Philadelphia was a huge draw — there’s such a rich healthcare network here, and I knew I’d be exposed to a wide range of practice settings early on. What really sealed the deal was how supportive and tight-knit the community felt when I visited. I didn’t want to feel like just another student in a lecture hall; I wanted to be somewhere that valued mentorship, collaboration, and personal growth — and Temple offered exactly that.

Did you work in a pharmacy before applying to/starting pharmacy school? Yes - I worked at a community pharmacy, and while this experience wasn’t what initially drew me to pharmacy, I quickly came to appreciate the significant impact pharmacists have on their communities. Between their accessibility, knowledge, and adaptability, I saw firsthand the vital role community pharmacists play in healthcare.

What do you hope to do after graduation? After graduation, I hope to complete a residency so I can further advance my clinical knowledge and gain confidence in my practice. I’m looking to work in a setting that offers consistent, direct patient interaction, as that’s where I feel I make the most meaningful impact. I also really enjoy mentoring and explaining concepts to others, so I’d love to be in a role where I can teach — whether that’s working with students, patients, or other healthcare professionals.

What's your favorite thing about pharmacy school? My favorite aspect of pharmacy school is the confidence that the unique curriculum provides. With so many different sectors of pharmacy to explore, I know I’ll never get bored and will always have opportunities to grow. My favorite part about TUSP is the people! Everyone brings a unique personality that contributes to the dynamic, supportive, and encouraging environment that the school fosters.

What's the hardest thing about pharmacy school and how do you deal with it? The hardest thing about pharmacy school is adjusting to varying schedules on a weekly basis. I recently started using Outlook Calendar which has been a game changer. 

What are you currently reading/watching/listening to? Modern family is my all time favorite show. I listen to all types of music ranging across all genres. Taylor Swift is always a good option.

What advice do you have for prospective students? My biggest advice for prospective students is to stay open-minded and not be afraid to ask for help. Pharmacy school can feel overwhelming at times, but you don’t have to go through it alone — leaning on classmates, professors, and upperclassmen makes a huge difference. Also, get involved early and try new experiences, even if you’re unsure of your exact career path. You learn so much about yourself just by showing up and saying yes to opportunities.