Meet Marieli Ruiz Cortés, a third-year PharmD candidate at the University of Puerto Rico School of Pharmacy. We recently caught up with Marieli to find out more about her APhA–ASP journey.
Student Pharmacist magazine (SPM): Why did you choose to become an APhA–ASP member?
Marieli: I joined APhA–ASP because I wanted to be part of a professional organization that advocates for the pharmacy profession while providing opportunities for leadership, community engagement, and professional development. The ability to make an impact through patient care initiatives and policy work was especially appealing to me.
SPM: What is your favorite APhA–ASP member benefit?
Marieli: My favorite benefit is the opportunity to network with like-minded student pharmacists and professionals who are passionate about advancing pharmacy practice. The leadership development programs and conferences have also been incredibly valuable in shaping my career path.
SPM: What is your favorite APhA–ASP memory?
Marieli: One of my favorite memories is working on my resolution advocating for the Pharmacist’s Role in Smoking Cessation Programs. It was inspiring to collaborate with my peers, present our ideas, and advocate for a policy that promotes pharmacists as essential health care providers in tobacco cessation efforts. Seeing our work contribute to real change in patient care was incredibly rewarding.
SPM: Are there any projects or initiatives you’ve been particularly passionate about within APhA–ASP?
Marieli: Absolutely! I’m especially passionate about advancing pharmacists’ involvement in preventive care. I believe pharmacists are in a prime position to provide counseling and help patients achieve their health goals. Additionally, I’m deeply invested in raising awareness about HPV and HIV, advocating for expanded pharmacist roles in vaccination, education, and medication therapy management to help prevent and manage these conditions. I also support efforts to promote sensible and compassionate practices for opioid users, ensuring access to harm reduction strategies, overdose prevention education, and pharmacist-led interventions to improve patient outcomes. Overall, I’m committed to leveraging the role of pharmacists to make a meaningful impact on public health and community wellness.
SPM: If you were a superhero, what power would you have?
Marieli: I would love the power of teleportation—being able to instantly travel anywhere in the world would be incredible.
SPM: After a long day of school or work, what do you like to do in the evening to unwind?
Marieli: I enjoy spending time with friends and family, watching a good show, or reading a book. If I need a reset, I’ll go for a walk, go to the beach, listen to music, or just relax with a coffee.