Meet Mark Nagel, a final-year PharmD candidate at The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. Mark is the immediate past APhA–ASP speaker of the house. After graduation, he will be moving back home to Des Moines, IA, for an acute care residency. We caught up with Mark to learn about him and his passion for APhA–ASP.
Student Pharmacist Magazine (SPM): Can you tell us about your journey with APhA–ASP? Why did you choose to become a member and why do you remain a member?
Nagel: I started my APhA–ASP journey as a curious P1. When I entered graduate school, I was a bit overwhelmed. There were many different organizations available, but the appeal of joining APhA–ASP was simple. As someone who was unsure of what career path I wanted to take, APhA–ASP had a space for everyone. It was great that APhA involved student pharmacists in the policy process and gave us a platform to advocate for our profession.
I found myself surrounded by mentors and peers who encouraged me to stay engaged. Each time I was asked to contribute, I said “Yes.” That led me to serve on the chapter, regional, and national levels. APhA–ASP’s mission kept me invested. The incredible individuals make APhA–ASP what it is. APhA’s camaraderie and sense of purpose keep me coming back to national meetings time and again.
SPM: What is your favorite APhA–ASP member benefit?
Nagel: As a final-year PharmD candidate finishing up my year of rotations, the member benefit I used the most this year was the 1-year Pyrls subscription. It is an incredibly helpful, easily digestible, resource that I used throughout my APPE year.
SPM: What is your favorite APhA–ASP memory?
Nagel: I have so many great APhA–ASP memories. I recall wonderful experiences at the chapter level, at regional meetings, and during APhA Annual Meetings & Expositions. However, if I had to choose, it would be the profound sense of accomplishment and satisfaction I felt after concluding the final APhA–ASP House of Delegates session at APhA2024. It was a cathartic moment that marked the culmination of many months of hard work. Reflecting on the meeting, I was immensely proud of the programming we put together. I enjoyed seeing student pharmacists engaged throughout the weekend. They seemed inspired to continue their involvement in the policy space, which was incredibly rewarding.
SPM: What is your go-to Starbucks order
Nagel: I actually don’t drink coffee. Those who know me well know that I have a V8 energy drink with me most mornings. But when I do go to Starbucks, I like the iced peach green tea lemonade, with a pump of sweetener and light ice.
SPM: If you were a superhero, what power would you have?
Nagel: I would want the ability to time travel, but I’m sure that I would somehow mess up the space-time continuum. For the sake of the rest of the world, I’ll say the ability to teleport and bring others with me. It would be great to see the world without the cost and inconvenience of travel (and to skip the morning commute).
SPM: After a long day of school or work, what do you like to do in the evening to unwind?
Nagel: I like to hang out with my fiancée and read (mostly fantasy novels right now). I watch a good movie or show, put on a record, and play board games. I also play video games with friends to relax. When the weather is nicer outside, I go for walks and play disc golf to unwind.