Student profile: Pharmacy

Why did you choose to study Pharmacy?

I actually started out studying a bachelor of media (majoring in public relations and media) and I really didn't love it. After dropping out (oops) and working/travelling, I followed my heart and applied for the B. Pharm. I had been working as a pharmacy assistant at my local pharmacy since I was 16, and always had a passion for what I did.

The problem was that I didn't actually have the prerequisites and the odds were pretty stacked against me. For years I had actually wanted to study pharmacy, but was too scared of failure. So I'm sure you can imagine how I reacted when I got my offer in Jan 2015. I've never looked back and it has truly changed my life.  

What does a typical day at uni look like for you?

Hustle, hustle hustle. I'm currently in my final year, and am also doing honours at the same time (pharmacy is fun like that). My timetable is 5 days every week, and it's a mix of lectures, labs, tutes and workshops. Honours has been really cool, because I've been learning how to research and work on my literature review, and am preparing for my thesis that I'll submit in November.

Whenever I get a chance I like to duck over to the gym to get my workout in, and then spend the rest of my time between classes in the pharmacy student lounge, where I am normally working on assignments/pre-work, and hanging out with my pharm crew!

What has surprised you most about your degree?

The community it builds. Pharmacy truly is like no other. It's one big cohort of people who end up being your ride or die. I've never seen another degree like it. Also the relationship we have with the academics in the faculty is insane. They're the most amazing people, and they're always pushing us to do amazing things. Some of the opportunities I have had since starting have been beyond my wildest dreams (sounds corny, but it's true).

What do you like most about studying at Usyd?

Am I allowed to say everything? I truly think it's the best. Amazing location, amazing people, plenty of hot spots for food (or a wine) in your downtime, and all in all, it's just full of a diverse range of beautiful people.  

What advice would you give other students just starting out?

Just keep swimming! I was so in over my head when I first started. I had no clue what I was doing, and after my first lesson (hello, basic pharmaceutical sciences) I went home and cried. It was a bit muddy for a while, but now I'm thriving.

I'm working for some amazing people and renowned companies; I'm doing Honours; I made the Dean's list last year; I have the most amazing group of friends. I actually tell people every day how lucky I am to live this life. It's a great one.