Current degree program: PharmD
Projected graduation year: 2027
Where did you grow up? Doylestown, PA
Where did you complete your prerequisite courses? I earned a A.S. in Biology from Bucks County Community College.
Tell us about yourself: I currently serve as President of the Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO), Treasurer of the Pharmacy Leadership Society, and Professional Chair of Lambda Kappa Sigma, roles that have significantly contributed to my leadership development. I also work at Johnson & Johnson as a Rheumatology Medical Communications Intern, where I apply pharmacy knowledge to ensure medical materials are scientifically sound and balanced. In my free time, I enjoy running, working out, spending time with my nieces and nephew!
Why did you choose TUSP over other pharmacy schools? Temple University was the only school I applied to and the only place I genuinely hoped to attend. From the beginning, I knew I wanted to commute, and Temple immediately stood out because of its accessibility and the many transportation options available to students. Being able to balance my academic responsibilities with a commute that fit my lifestyle made Temple the right choice from day one. Choosing Temple has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I truly couldn’t imagine pursuing my pharmacy education anywhere else.
Did you work in a pharmacy before applying to/starting pharmacy school? Yes - I began working as a CVS pharmacy technician the semester before starting pharmacy school. My goal was to gain early exposure to commonly prescribed medications and to better understand the workflow of a pharmacy setting. Even though I knew retail practice wasn’t the career path I ultimately wanted to pursue, the experience proved incredibly valuable. The foundational knowledge and hands-on familiarity I developed made a noticeable difference during the pathophysiology and therapeutics modules, and it gave me a strong starting point as I transitioned into the pharmacy curriculum.
What do you hope to do after graduation? Work in the Pharmaceutical industry, specifically Medical Affairs
What's your favorite thing about pharmacy school? One of my favorite parts of pharmacy school has been the close relationships I’ve built with my classmates. The support, collaboration, and genuine friendships that have grown over the years have made the experience incredibly meaningful.
What's the hardest thing about pharmacy school and how do you deal with it? The most challenging part of pharmacy school was learning how to study effectively during my first year. Coming from a community college setting, I was used to taking fewer classes with lighter coursework and smaller class sizes. The transition to a much heavier academic load was difficult at first, and I realized quickly that my previous study habits were not working. Through a lot of trial and error, I eventually figured out which study approaches worked best for each course. One of the biggest lessons I learned is that no two classes can be studied the same way. It took time, patience, and a willingness to adjust, but finding the right strategies made all the difference in understanding the material.
What do you like to do in your free time? I like to run, hang out with friends, and cook for fun!
What are you currently reading/watching/listening to? Currently reading: my notes for school (I get a lot of reading done during the summer!). Currently watching: Friends
What advice do you have for prospective students? For prospective students, my biggest piece of advice is to stay open to growth and get involved early. Pharmacy school can feel overwhelming at first, but embracing new opportunities (ex. organizations, internships, or professional events) can make a tremendous difference in your confidence and direction. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and connect with classmates and faculty! It’s also important to find balance. Prioritize your well-being, stay organized, and give yourself grace as you adjust to the demands of the program. Everyone moves at their own pace, and it’s completely normal to learn through trial and error. Most importantly, believe in yourself. You are capable of more than you think! Embrace every experience, stay curious, and trust that each step is preparing you for a rewarding career in pharmacy.