Alaina Zacharias is a final-year PharmD candidate at South College School of Pharmacy.
At 12 years old, I remember watching my friend pause before taking the first bite of her lunch. She would pull a small black meter out of her backpack, check her blood glucose, give herself insulin, and then carry on as if it were nothing. At the time, I hardly thought about it. It seemed like just another step in her routine. Looking back now, I see those pauses for what they truly were: daily acts of resilience and strength, small moments that revealed the weight of living with diabetes.
During my ambulatory care IPPE at a diabetes clinic this past year, I recalled that memory from a new perspective. I met patients who felt overwhelmed by numbers and routines but also saw how a pharmacist’s clarity and compassion empowered them. This experience expanded my understanding of diabetes and my role in supporting patients, ultimately motivating me to serve as student liaison for the APhA Diabetes Management Community, where dedicated individuals collaborate to advance diabetes care.
A unique platform to deepen knowledge
In this role, I represent student pharmacists and help bridge the gap between future practitioners and a network of clinicians, educators, and advocates. I’m drawn to chronic disease management because it allows pharmacists to build lasting, trust-based relationships with patients. As I work toward a career in clinical pharmacy, the mentorship, education, and resources from this Community will continue to shape my ability to deliver patient-centered care. With diabetes affecting nearly every area of pharmacy practice, focusing on it means making a difference across diverse populations and care settings.
Being part of this Community has connected me with inspiring mentors, provided resources that sharpen my clinical expertise, and introduced me to peers equally committed to improving diabetes outcomes. As our Community Chair Taryn Mondiello shared: “APhA’s Diabetes Management Community offers student pharmacists a unique platform to deepen their knowledge, build practical skills, and engage with professionals passionate about improving diabetes care. By becoming a member, student pharmacists gain access to expert resources, education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation.”
More than a resource
For any student pharmacist curious about diabetes care, joining the Diabetes Management Community is a chance to learn, connect, and grow alongside peers and mentors who are just as passionate. It is more than a resource—it is a community that can help you explore your interests and develop skills that will stick with you throughout your career.
The APhA Communities provide the support and resources you need. Check out Diabetes Management and the 22 other Communities and join now at www.pharmacist.com/Membership/Communities.