This past year has been one of the most challenging of my life. I have felt hopeless and scared. Living through the pandemic and having been directly impacted by the COVID-19 virus has left my family and me with trauma.

As a student pharmacist, you may possess a desire to know and understand every medication and disease state. Like all medical professionals, you must keep up with constant changes in treatment guidelines, research, and laws to do your job appropriately.

This past year of APPE rotations has been filled with personal growth, new professional connections, and the anticipation of calling yourself “pharmacist” in a few short months. The wait is over, and soon you will begin the next chapter of your life as you start your professional career.

Whether you’re starting your career as a resident, as a fellow, or as an ambulatory care, community, or hospital pharmacist, it’s important to challenge yourself to continue learning throughout your career. 

Just as we are budding professionals, we are also developing as human beings—but far too often, we neglect self-development in our fast-paced lives.