You are working at your community pharmacy and a patient considering hormonal contraceptives approaches. She asks for help in determining which option would be the best fit for her. This scenario reflects an opportunity for pharmacists to help improve patient access and education on hormonal contraceptives. Such improvements are needed, according to a 2011 study published in Contraception that suggested 49% of pregnancies in 2006 were unintended.

Fortunately, there is a growing trend of allowing pharmacists to help with education and provide hormonal contraceptives, and it is important to understand the counseling considerations that go into providing this care.

In early April, I learned that my brother had attempted suicide. I was assured that he was safe at the hospital and would be getting the treatment he needed. I knew that over time, things would be okay. And things are okay. He is back home and doing very well. My family has dealt with mental illness and the struggles that mental Illness causes for a long time. We have a strong community that includes mental health professionals, family members, and friends. I feel fortunate and wish that everyone had this kind of support. Throughout my career, I would like to promote and help contribute to sustainable support systems for my patients.

The theme of the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF) is to “Think Globally, Act Locally.” Acting locally is simple; most student pharmacists volunteer at flu clinics or offer their time at a non-profit clinic. The opportunities are right in front of you. Thinking globally is a unique aspect of service and stems from the awareness that pharmacists provide a service that can have a greater impact globally than what is seen first-hand.

Planning events as an IPSF Chapter Vice President (VP) can sometimes be challenging because you might not know where to start. Perhaps your organization is like mine, where IPSF was underrepresented for years. As the new VP, I felt like I had to build from the ground up, so to change that and help my fellow students learn more about what IPSF has to offer, I began my pursuit of having a global impact right here in Salt Lake City.

World Congress, the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation’s (IPSF) international conference, hosts a number of innovative and interactive sessions for students from all around the world. The 2018 forum was held in Mendoza, Argentina, and was extra special for APhA–ASP.

ou have probably been asked that question many times in your life. For many of you, pharmacy school was your intended career path for as long as you can remember. Indeed, many pharmacists tell me they were inspired by the example set by their parents and other family members. 

Or, perhaps you are like me, and changed your career course before finding your true calling.