Alexis Dimetry is a third-year PharmD candidate at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Pharmacy.
In a profession that moves quickly, it’s easy to go into autopilot. But when you truly engage with the people in front of you—your classmates, colleagues, and patients—those are the moments that stick. That is why a theme about slowing down, being present, and recognizing the weight that even small actions can carry deeply resonates with me.
Even before I decided to pursue pharmacy school, I had followed the tenets of APhA–ASP National President Rachel Lucky’s 2025–2026 theme, “Every Moment Matters: Celebrate, Cherish, Create.” Now as a student pharmacist, I truly value the sentiment because there is one reality that cannot be denied: Pharmacy school goes by faster than expected.
I only get 4 years
Instead of saying, “I only have 4 years,” I’ve started thinking, “I only get 4 years.” Four years to soak up knowledge, explore different areas of pharmacy, and build a foundation for the kind of pharmacist I want to become. Living with intention has shaped how I approach every aspect of my education. Whether it’s engaging in class, participating in patient care, or attending professional conferences, I try to approach each opportunity as a moment that matters. Not every moment will be perfect or easy, but each one is a chance to grow, connect, or make a difference.
One of the moments that inspired me most happened years ago when I was working as a pharmacy technician. A couple came in to pick up a prescription for Eliquis after the husband had recently had a stroke. The medication wasn’t covered, and they couldn’t afford it. My pharmacist was overwhelmed and unable to help, but something in me said to pause. I stepped away briefly and found a manufacturer coupon that gave them their first month free. They were so thankful. The wife teared up and said, “You don’t know how much this means to us.” That moment stayed with me.
It was the first time I truly saw the impact the pharmacy profession could have. I wasn’t planning to apply to pharmacy school yet, but that experience helped shape my path. It reminded me that this profession is about more than medications; it’s about people.
Carrying the spirit in and out of my comfort zone
My passion to make the most out of every moment recently took me out of my comfort zone, and my side of the country, to Salt Lake City for the 2025 APhA Institute on Substance Use Disorders. I never imagined I’d visit Utah, let alone for something so meaningful. That week opened my eyes to the deep impact pharmacists can have in SUD care. The APhA Institute wasn’t just about policy or science; it was about human connection, empathy, and showing up. It reminded me that stepping into unfamiliar places can bring some of the most powerful growth.
Back at school, I’ve carried that spirit with me, taking on leadership roles, advocating for mental health, checking in on classmates, and creating inclusive spaces. “Every Moment Matters” challenges student pharmacists not just to be present but to act with purpose. And when you act with purpose, even the smallest moments can become the most meaningful ones.