“Why” Go to the APhA Conference? Students’ Experiences Answer the Question

“Live your Why” was the theme for the American Pharmacist’s Association, Academy of Student Pharmacists this past year. A record of 40 students from Philadelphia College of Pharmacy at University of the Sciences attended the annual conference in Baltimore, Maryland from March 4-7, 2016. The weekend kicked off with the opening ceremony, acknowledging the work done by student pharmacists across the nation, and a “superhero” social that included line dancing, great music, and students dressed up as their favorite superheroes. We all had a great time and even had two students win awards for their costumes!

The second day of the conference was jam-packed with different classes and conferences that allowed students to gain more knowledge on our profession and the progression of the profession. That day ended with the Pennsylvania Pharmacists’ Association Reception, where students had the opportunity to mingle and chat with pharmacists as well as other student pharmacists from Pennsylvania. The connections made at this reception led to the collaboration of PCP, Jefferson, and Temple to co-host tables at an upcoming health fair this semester.

Later on that evening was the PCP alumni dinner, where all 40 students were able to eat as well as mingle with faculty and alumni from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. Pharmacy students from our chapter were given the opportunity to speak to faculty outside of the classroom setting. Connections and friendships were fostered over great food and an even better time.

The third day of the conference, students were introduced to the new national executive board for the Academy of Student Pharmacists. Some students even attended a lecture by Professor of Clinical Pharmacy Dr. Michael Cawley P’94, PharmD’96 focusing on up and coming inhalers in the market. The day ended with students being able to meet even more alumni of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy at the alumni reception. Alumni from all different walks of life were able to speak to students about their current experiences as practicing pharmacists and Interim President Kate Mayes addressed students at the reception.

Although this year’s conference was not as sunny as it was in San Diego, all students can agree that this year was one for the books. To have the ability to network with faculty, alumni, and student pharmacists across the nation was an opportunity of a lifetime. Next year, the conference will take place in San Francisco, but this year’s conference gave us the opportunity to learn more about how we can “Live Our Why”.

Categories: News, Feature Story, Students, Event, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacy, Pharmacy Administration