Your diploma is just the beginning: Building a lifelong learning plan
By Anneliese Harp, PharmD
Graduating from pharmacy school is a tremendous accomplishment, especially since it is also the beginning of a career that is built upon continuous learning. One of the most difficult, but most exciting, parts of the transition from classroom to practice is that health care is constantly evolving. New medications are approved, clinical guidelines are updated, regulatory frameworks change, and emerging guidance shapes how pharmacists provide for their patients.
It is essential for new practitioners to develop a plan for lifelong learning to build confidence and create new career and professional opportunities.
Develop the continuous learning habit
One of the first decisions many new practitioners face is determining if additional formal education aligns with their career goals. Residency and fellowship can provide a plethora of specialized experiences in clinical practice, research, industry, academia, government, or professional organizations. Others may pursue further graduate education in degrees such as an MBA, PhD, etc. to expand their expertise in a more specialized area. Board certification such as through the Board of Pharmacy Specialties and certificate training programs available through APhA are also helpful because they allow pharmacists to deepen their knowledge in specific practice areas.
It is important to note that professional development extends far beyond formal credentials. Every pharmacist should work to develop habits that help support continuous learning throughout their career. In working toward this growth mindset, pharmacists can address knowledge gaps, explore new areas of interest, strengthen their practice, and get more involved in the profession. This can take the shape of attending local or national meetings, participating in journal clubs, and taking a leadership role in a professional organization. These are all valuable ways to stay connected with colleagues and develop professionally.
Take one step at a time
Keeping up with medical literature can feel overwhelming, especially during the first few years of practice. Rather than reading every piece of literature published, take one step at a time. First, create a sustainable routine. Some examples of this are subscribing to email alerts from a journal you like, reviewing guideline updates, or dedicating even 20 to 30 minutes each week to reading a recent article.
A preceptor of mine once recommended printing journals I find interesting and storing in a folder to read whenever I have free time. These small, consistent efforts are often more effective than attempting to absorb everything at once.
Remain curious
Perhaps the most important lesson I have to impart is that every pharmacist’s educational journey will look different. Some practitioners will pursue advanced training immediately after graduation, while others will gain experience first and identify new interests along the way. There is no single “right path,” so do not compare others’ journeys with your own. The key is to remain curious and seek opportunities that align with your own personal goals.
Your pharmacy degree opened the door to your profession. Your continued investment in education will shape the pharmacist, and leader, you become. With this, I encourage you to seek out continuous learning opportunities and most importantly, never lose your passion for learning. The knowledge you gain today will help prepare you for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.
Anneliese Harp, PharmD, is second-year HSPAL resident at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, is pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Cincinnati, and serves as the 2026–2027 member-at-large–communications for the APhA New Practitioner Community. She is passionate about improving patient care through pharmacy leadership, with particular interests in oncology management, medication safety, regulatory compliance, and pharmacy practice advancement. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her cat Cece, reading, traveling, and trying new restaurants.