Miranda Montoya is a second-year PharmD candidate at the University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy.
Hello, everyone! I am incredibly humbled and honored to serve as your 2023–2024 APhA–ASP national president-elect. I am beyond excited to see what comes of the next two years.
I have developed endless friendships through this association and have found my permanent home—and it has only been two years.
As a first-year student pharmacist, I was intimidated by local leaders. It wasn’t until those same local leaders reached out with the encouragement and support that gave me the courage to think “I could do this.” Following their inspiration, I ran and served as my chapter’s president-elect, and the rest is history. During these past six months, I have served as the Region 8 APhA–ASP regional delegate, thereby pursuing my enthusiasm in advocating for our profession. I’ve gained a passion for APhA–ASP and everything the academy stands for through these positions.
I was born and raised in Las Vegas, and I consider myself a small-town girl who’s just trying to make her community proud. I’m the middle child of six, and my siblings have always been my best friends and biggest supporters. My two pups at home (Roxy and Tilly) love to steal all my time and affection; I basically consider them my children.
When I’m not stressing about school or work, I love surrounding myself with friends and family and enjoying the outdoors. I find peace in spending time outside, and I try to take walking breaks or soak up some sunlight to reset. You can always find me walking around with a matcha tea or coffee—specifically, a blonde vanilla latte with no whip. Music is always playing in the background as I love to find new artists (I will gladly take any song recs!).
I am especially eager to connect with so many more student pharmacists around the country. My passion for APhA–ASP was sparked by student mentors; without them, I would have never found my pharmacy home. I aspire to be that same spark that ignites fervor in other students. I hope to create an environment of accessibility and inclusion—one of belonging—within APhA–ASP.
I can’t wait to meet you all. Don’t be afraid to reach out to me—I love creating new relationships!
Five questions for Miranda
1. What show are you currently binging?
Murdaugh Murders on Netflix.
2. What is your most-used phone app?
TikTok! When I need a break from the day, I hop on and scroll through videos.
3. If you could live in any state, which would you pick and why?
California. I have family out there and would love to move back and be close to them. I absolutely hate the cold and look forward to warm weather year-round.
4. What actor or actress would you want to play you in the movie about your life and why?
Jenna Ortega, an absolute queen!
5. You can only eat one food again for the rest of your life. What is it?
Pasta! You could switch it up and create a new version every day. Plus, it’s easy.