Pharmacy Professionalism Toolkit for Students and Faculty Provided by the APhA-ASP/AACP Committee on Student Professionalism

PROFESSIONAL YEARS 01, 02, 03 (Didactic)
Professional Pharmacy Organizations

Description of activity
Numerous professional organizations exist for students enrolled in schools and colleges of pharmacy. Most organizations are associated with national pharmacy organizations such as the American Pharmacists Association. Students may wish to create a chapter office within the student organization devoted to professional development.

Rationale
Student organizations serve as a major force in developing professionalism. Active participation in student organizations is critical for the professional development of a student enrolled in a school or college of pharmacy.

Areas of professionalism addressed
All areas of professionalism (e.g., altruism, accountability, duty, honor, integrity, and respect for others) can be addressed when students participate as active members of professional organizations.

Special issues involving planning/promotion/implementation
Sustaining membership in student organizations is a challenge due to the constant progression of students through a professional degree program. Students must be encouraged to join one or more organizations and actively participate by attending meetings and serving in a leadership capacity. In some schools and colleges there are a large number of organizations which can increase the opportunity for leadership experience. As the number of organizations increase, there is a greater need to promote cooperation among the organizations in an effort to avoid competition.

Examples of programs and resources
American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists

Honor System
Dress Code
Course Content and Structure
Classroom Demeanor
Student Membership on School and College Committees
Professional Demeanor: Faculty, Teaching Assistants, Preceptor, Staff & Administrators
Ethics Course Offerings
Leadership and Political Advocacy Course Offering
Recognition and Awards
Cultivating Student and Faculty Relationships
Professional Pharmacy Organizations
Student Leadership Council
Community Service Requirements (Service Learning)
Pinning/Professional Commitment Ceremony (End of P3)
Faculty Retreat
Student Professionalism Assessment
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