|
Deciding to pursue pharmacy as a career is a big decision requiring dedication, commitment, and hard work. The resources below will help you decide which pharmacy program is the best fit for you and offer advice on how to prepare a successful application.
Research and Background
Before you begin submitting applications to Pharmacy schools, carefully research and compare the programs. Look closely at the curriculum, facilities, faculty, student organizations, graduate placement and salary data, and other factors that are important to you. You can view a list of accredited Pharmacy programs at the AACP Web site.
Survey professional pharmacy Web sites and journals for industry trends, job data, educational innovations, and professional practice news. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Web site is a great place to start. Review the Bureau of Labor Statistics data on pharmacy-related careers. Bookmark the most helpful sites so you can return easily.
Sign up for e-mail list-servs (e.g., the AACP list-serv), subscribe to a Google Alert regarding pharmacy-related topics that interest you, or subscribe to the RSS feed of a pharmacy-related blog. All of these methods will deliver news to your e-mail inbox so you may keep abreast of developments.
Seek out professional advice from pharmacy professionals -- your local pharmacist, pharmacy faculty, current students, recent graduates, etc. Have a list of questions/topics prepared.
Begin visiting schools early. Get a feel for the type of campus environment you are comfortable in, the accessibility of staff, faculty, and students, and the research and learning facilities. Also take into account the living and social environment, traffic and parking, and any other quality of life elements that are important to you.
Community Service
If you are considering a career in pharmacy, consider volunteering your time at a pharmacy, hospital, nursing home, or other related facility or organization. See up-close how professionals interact with patients and their colleagues. Most importantly, assess your dedication to their field and gain valuable interpersonal and leadership skills.
Test Preparation
Choose a test date and register for the Pharmacy College Admission Test PCAT and begin reviewing and practicing.
The AACP Web site contains additional information on the PCAT.
There are also a variety of PCAT study guide books available via the UB Bookstore and most other online booksellers.
Application Process
Begin the process early. The application process can be time consuming, and getting an early start allows you to prepare a more professional application.
Reach out to those whose assistance you'll need in the application process -- guidance counselors, teachers or professors, work supervisors. Be sure to get any recommendation forms, transcript requests, or other deadlines to them as early as possible.
Prepare for the admissions interview -- practice your interview skills and prepare professional clothing. Read more admissions interview tips.
Review school application requirements and print out the list, noting deadlines and checking off items as you complete them.
Explore all financial aid options -- loans, grants, scholarships, paid internships, work study, etc. Be sure to complete the FAFSA at the appropriate time. Begin your research with the AACP Financial Aid resources page.
Good Luck! If you have any questions about the application process, do not hesitate to contact us at (716) 645-2825 (option #2) or phar...@buffalo.edu.
|
