Meet Jose Archuleta, a final-year PharmD candidate at The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy. We recently caught up with Jose to find out more about his APhA–ASP journey.
Student Pharmacist magazine (SPM): Why did you choose to become an APhA–ASP member?
Jose: I joined APhA–ASP because I wanted to be part of something that represented the entire pharmacy profession. Growing up in rural New Mexico, I witnessed how limited access to health care impacts patients and how one pharmacist can make a tremendous difference in a community. APhA–ASP gave me the chance to channel those early experiences into action, whether it was writing policy resolutions as a first-year student, advocating on Capitol Hill, or serving as chapter president. For me, membership has never just been about joining an organization. It has been about stepping into a movement to advance pharmacy and patient care, and APhA–ASP gives student pharmacists the platform to do just that.
SPM: What is your favorite APhA–ASP member benefit?
Jose: The strongest benefit has been the network. APhA–ASP creates connections with student pharmacists, pharmacists, and leaders who push you to grow and support your journey. That network has opened doors, inspired me to think bigger, and given me mentors who I know will remain part of my career long after graduation. It has also taught me the importance of paying it forward, so I make it a priority to mentor younger students in the same way others invested in me. To me, the network is not only about opportunities but also about building lasting relationships that strengthen our profession.
SPM: What is your favorite APhA–ASP memory?
Jose: One of my most meaningful memories was attending the APhA–ASP Summer Leadership Institute in Washington, DC. Sitting across the table from legislators, I realized that my voice as a student pharmacist carried weight. That moment reinforced for me that advocacy is not reserved for later in our careers. It begins now, and APhA–ASP empowers students to make that impact. Beyond the meetings, I also remember the energy of being surrounded by leaders from across the country who shared the same passion and drive. It was inspiring to see how individual experiences came together to create one unified voice for pharmacy.
SPM: If you were a superhero, what power would you have?
Jose: I would choose the power to be in multiple places at once, all while sharing the same memories and thoughts. Between classes, rotations, and trying to keep up with friends and hobbies, there just are not enough hours in the day. With that power, one version of me could study for exams, another could attend meetings, and the real me could finally catch a sports game or movie night. It would be such a fun way to do all the things I would want to do at the same time. Plus, maybe one of my clones could study the NAPLEX with me so I can learn twice as fast!
SPM: After a long day of school or work, what do you like to do in the evening to unwind?
Jose: I like to step back and recharge by spending time with family, going to the gym, or ending the day at the movie theater. These moments give me a chance to relax after a demanding week of studying and rotations. No matter how busy my schedule gets, I always make time for these activities because they keep me balanced and grounded. They also remind me that at the end of the day, we are more than just student pharmacists; we are people with hobbies, passions, and interests that make us unique. What I love about pharmacy, and especially APhA–ASP, is that despite all of our differences, it brings us together in a shared mission to move the profession forward.