Misk Al Qaderi is a final-year PharmD candidate at The University of Arizona R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy. She will receive an APhA Student Leadership Award at the 2026 APhA Annual Meeting & Exposition in Los Angeles.
Student Pharmacist Magazine (SPM): As you reflect on your student pharmacist experience thus far, what are some of your favorite memories?
Al Qaderi: One of the most meaningful aspects of my student pharmacist journey has been leading an influenza vaccine awareness campaign through producing a series of educational videos designed to address vaccine hesitancy. That experience challenged me to think beyond traditional approaches to patient education and consider how we, as future pharmacists, can communicate in ways that are both clinically accurate and genuinely engaging for our communities. I blended my pharmacy knowledge with innovative video production by scripting, directing, filming, and creatively editing content designed to address vaccine hesitancy. Balancing creativity with clinical responsibility strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills and reinforced my commitment to advancing public health through innovative and accessible approaches. Seeing the videos reach more than 70,000 people was incredibly encouraging, as it reinforced for me that student-led initiatives can meaningfully contribute to vaccination awareness and broader public health efforts.
Another memorable experience was producing a public service announcement video for the Arizona Pharmacy Association that was featured at a Phoenix Suns game during American Pharmacists Month. That incredible opportunity allowed me to advocate for the pharmacy profession in front of a large and diverse audience and highlight the essential role pharmacists play in improving health across our state. Being part of an initiative that brought visibility to our profession on such a large scale was incredibly meaningful and reinforced the responsibility we have as future pharmacists to also serve as trusted voices in our communities. Experiences like these have shaped how I envision my future in pharmacy and finding innovative ways to expand the reach and impact of our profession.
SPM: Pharmacy school is demanding, especially when you participate in additional activities. How do you manage all of your responsibilities?
Al Qaderi: Pharmacy school can definitely be demanding, so learning how to prioritize and be intentional with time has been essential. I start by identifying what is most important in each week and creating a structured plan that allows me to stay on track academically while still being involved in the projects and organizations important to me. What has made this balance possible is not only effective prioritization, but also that I do not treat my interests and my education as separate. I look for ways to integrate them both. Many of the initiatives I have been part of have combined my passion for communication, creativity, marketing, and public health, so they feel purposeful rather than overwhelming. There have been long nights and early mornings, but I always remind myself why I chose this path, and that sense of purpose keeps me going.
I am also very goal-oriented and realistic about time, which means planning ahead, staying organized, and being flexible when priorities shift, while especially being mindful to take care of myself so I can give my best in each commitment. I have learned to commit with intention and give my full energy and effort to the responsibilities I take on and am trusted with. I feel incredibly grateful for each of those opportunities, and that gratitude motivates me to work hard and continue growing both as a student and as a future pharmacist.
SPM: What are some of your favorite leadership tools and/or resources?
Al Qaderi: One of the most meaningful leadership resources in my journey has been the mentorship and guidance of those around me. I have been fortunate to learn from pharmacists, faculty members, and mentors who have generously shared their experiences and perspectives, helping shape how I approach leadership and professional growth. Equally important has been the influence of my family. My parents and sister have always encouraged me to work hard, stay determined, and strive for excellence in everything I pursue. Their support has been a constant source of motivation and played a significant role in shaping the values that guide my leadership today. These influences continue to remind me that leadership is not only about personal achievement, but also about growing with purpose and inspiring others along the way.
SPM: What does being a leader mean, and what does being selected for this award mean to you?
Al Qaderi: I have always viewed leadership as a responsibility to lead by example through growth, discipline, and purpose. That means setting high expectations for myself, showing up with intention, and constantly pushing myself to grow in ways that create lasting impact. It is a commitment to excellence in how I prepare, how I serve, and how I continue to develop. I also believe that a true leader does not create followers but helps cultivate future leaders by setting a standard of integrity, dedication, and continuous improvement. For me, leadership is rooted in inspiration, and its true impact is reflected in the growth and leadership it inspires in others.
Being selected for an APhA Student Leadership Award is something I am deeply grateful for and a recognition I will carry with me throughout my career. It represents the mentors who believed in me, the opportunities that shaped me, and the years of growth that allowed me to become the leader I strive to be for a profession I care so deeply about. This honor strengthens my commitment to keep growing, to lead with purpose, and to continue serving a profession that means so much to me. I carry this forward as both a privilege and a responsibility, and it will continue to push me to become the leader I strive to be.
SPM: What is your favorite place to visit and why?
Al Qaderi: My favorite place to visit is Erbil, Kurdistan, because it is more than a destination to me—it is home. From being the place where I was born, where my dad’s pharmacy was, where my family still lives, and where so many of my closest memories and friendships are rooted. Every time I return, I am reminded of how rich it is in history and culture, from the ancient citadel that overlooks the city to the everyday traditions that make it feel so alive and meaningful. There is something so special about being in a place that feels familiar, welcoming, and full of life.
Every time I visit, there are new places to explore, new restaurants to try, and new memories to make because the city is constantly growing and evolving. The food is my absolute favorite and carries a sense of comfort and nostalgia that I cannot find anywhere else. What stands out most to me, though, is the hospitality. The warmth and generosity people show is truly unmatched, and you are treated like family wherever you go. Being there fills me with pride, and every visit reminds me how amazing it is to come from a place so rich in heart, resilience, and beauty.
SPM: What’s next for you?
Al Qaderi: As I approach graduation from the R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy this May, I am excited to begin the next chapter of my journey. I recently accepted a postdoctoral fellowship in U.S. and Global Commercial Oncology Strategy with Sanofi, in partnership with the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. I am truly honored for the opportunity to join an innovation-driven oncology team and to contribute to work that advances therapies for patients on a broader scale. I look forward to continuing to grow both professionally and personally alongside such an inspiring group while expanding my understanding of the intersection between strategy, patient impact, and the future of oncology care.