Xochitl Benitez, PharmD, is a PGY1 ambulatory care pharmacy resident at El Rio Health in Tucson, AZ; Elena Patestos, PharmD, is a PGY1 community-based resident at Wilkes University and Weis Markets Pharmacy in Schnecksville, PA; and Jacob Noble, PharmD, MPH, is a PGY1–health-system pharmacy administration and leadership resident at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.
Congratulations, you’ve matched! It’s important to take some time to celebrate this success. After months of hard work, you’ve been matched with a residency program and are that much closer to graduating from pharmacy school. But what comes next?
Between now and the first day of residency, there are a few things to add to your to-do list. The next steps to focus on include preparing for the pharmacist licensure examinations, ironing out logistics, and preparing for the upcoming residency year.
Preparing for the residency year (Jacob)
Following match results, in the 3 to 4 months leading up to pharmacy residency, student pharmacists can strategically focus on key areas to maximize their preparation and make the most of this crucial transition. Recognizing that time is limited, a targeted and organized approach can greatly assist future plans for the residency year.
During this period, student pharmacists should review and reinforce their foundational clinical knowledge to help prepare them for the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and stay mentally sharp. This involves revisiting core concepts, therapeutic guidelines, and disease states encountered during their academic coursework and rotations. Emphasizing high-yield topics and frequently encountered conditions in the upcoming residency’s specific practice area can help build confidence and competence for the upcoming year.
To further prepare for the residency year, it can be helpful to determine where you will live if moving is required for residency and to get to know the area in which you will be living. While many critically look at the residency they are applying to, it is also essential to look at the community that the hospital is within to ensure that you will have outlets that can take your mind away from work and allow you to decompress. While residency directors and other staff at the hospital can assist in this endeavor, expanding your search to sports teams, outdoor activities, or restaurants in the area can be a fun way to get to know the city in which you will be working and living.
One aspect of this process that can be easily overlooked is taking some time to decompress from a busy 4 years of pharmacy school. While many things will be asking for attention, it’s important to try to establish healthy habits and get some rest before a busy upcoming year. Through effective time management, many students are able to balance spending time with friends and family, studying for the NAPLEX, and preparing for residency.
Networking and seeking advice from current or former pharmacy residents can provide valuable insights into the specific challenges and expectations of the residency program. Mentors, preceptors, or alumni can offer guidance on navigating the institution's unique aspects and making a smooth transition into the residency role. If your residency has multiple residents, connecting with your future colleagues is equally important. These individuals will more than likely be the ones who will understand what you are going through the most and can serve as a support network if difficult times arise.
Pharmacist licensure examinations (Elena)
Per residency accreditation standards, residents need to complete at least two-thirds of a residency as a licensed pharmacist. Many programs are based on a 52-week schedule, which would require licensure within 120 days after the residency start date. Depending on the program with which you matched, they may have different time-based requirements for licensure, so be sure to evaluate the specific requirements for your program. Licensure requirements vary based on the state, like the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE), but the NAPLEX requirement is consistent nationwide.
Preparing for pharmacist licensure exams can be overwhelming, so it is important to prioritize planning and preparation! The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy publishes a NAPLEX/MPJE Candidate Application Bulletin outlining the exams, how to apply, testing accommodations, and other procedures. The Bulletin is a great resource to understand the intricacies of each exam and the application process.
Another important step in preparation for licensure exams is choosing study materials and determining a study plan. Everyone has an individualized learning style, so each study approach should be individualized to what works best for you. There are various resources available for studying, including both free and paid options. We recommend consulting with your pharmacy school to identify what resources they have available to students at no cost. Once you’ve determined the platform for your study materials, you can then decide on the most effective study strategies. Consider the utilization of videos, books, flashcards, practice questions, practice exams, and other sources of information.
Another crucial step in exam preparations will be developing a study plan. Determine the length of time until your exam and the days and times of the week you would like to devote to studying. Then break up which topics you would like to focus on in each session. A plan will help you visualize your timeline and keep you on track to reach your study goals before the big day. Once exam day arrives, ensure you bring your ID and any necessary approved materials like snacks and water to have during the scheduled breaks, and have a good breakfast to fuel your mind. Exam season may be busy and stressful, but always remember to be confident in the effort you have put in to prepare.
Logistics (Xochitl)
Match day was likely a whirlwind of emotions, and it’s the beginning of an exhilarating journey. Take this time to celebrate your achievements and let the reality of the path ahead settle within you.
Now is an opportunity to translate those emotions into action. Some of you may be staying close to home, whereas others may move to a new state. Regardless, make sure you have an active intern license in the state where you will be practicing. Going to a new state may require time and it can take months to receive the license. Check the state board of pharmacy requirements and use this as a frame for your to-do list.
If you have coresidents, ask your residency program director to put you in contact with them if they haven’t done so already. Setting up a group chat or even getting on a Zoom call can help build a professional relationship and make the transition slightly easier. Every cohort will have a different dynamic, but staying professional is important. Some may become friends for life, whereas others will remain peers. Either way, this is an experience you will get through together.
Connecting with current or previous residents can help those moving to a new city or state. Their perspective may be helpful when it comes to commuting and budget. Finding housing can be stressful, especially if you are not from the area. It also may never be too early to start your own research online or, if feasible, visit in person before the move.
Most importantly, enjoy these last few months before graduation
Overall, the 3 to 4 months leading up to pharmacy residency serve as a critical window for focused preparation. By reinforcing clinical knowledge, solidifying living arrangements, taking time to rest, and connecting with others, residents can position themselves for a successful and seamless transition into the challenging yet rewarding year of their residency.
As important as the next steps may be, making the most of your last year in pharmacy school is equally as important. While it is good to be prepared, it is also important to be present. Congratulations, and good luck taking the next steps in your professional journey!