7 Reasons to Become a Pharmacist in the Maritimes
Jul 24, 2024Are you considering a career in pharmacy in the Maritimes? Meet Laura DeMerchant, a Community Pharmacist, who shares her inspiring journey from a pharmacy student to a practicing pharmacist. Learn how Dalhousie University’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program can prepare you for a rewarding career in this dynamic field.
- Witness the Evolution of Pharmacy
“When I was looking into pharmacy, it was 2011. And we were basically dispensing medications and counselling. You can do pretty much anything with your degree now. Seeing how far pharmacy has come has been so rewarding.”
Dalhousie's PharmD program prepares you for a future where pharmacists play crucial roles in various health care settings.
- Specialize in Your Field
“I did three years in medicinal chemistry. So that's my specialty,” says Laura. At Dalhousie, you can focus on areas like medicinal chemistry, clinical practice, or research, ensuring you are well-prepared for your chosen career path.
- Balance Knowledge and Humanity
“Yes, we need to understand the makeup of medications, but really, it's the humanity part of it,” says Laura. Dalhousie emphasizes pharmacy's technical and human aspects, helping you develop the skills needed to provide compassionate patient care.
- Develop Your Unique Approach
“It's really lovely and exciting to see how you become your own pharmacist. You have your own spin on everything. And that's something that you just feel through experience.” Dalhousie encourages you to find your strengths and develop a personal approach to your practice, supported by hands-on experience.
- Learn from Exceptional Mentors
“I’ve been fortunate that I’ve worked with some really great pharmacists. Kristen and I started working together in September 2022.
I'm very jealous when I listen to her talk to patients because she's just so well-spoken. She's a very good pharmacist, so I learned a lot from her.” Dalhousie provides numerous opportunities to learn from experienced professionals who can guide and inspire you.
- Build Unique Professional Relationships
“There’s something really special and unique to a pharmacist friendship. Because nobody else will listen to you talk about pharmacy all day,” says Laura.
Dalhousie fosters a supportive environment where you can form lasting professional relationships and peer networks.
- Inspire the Next Generation
“I'll talk to the pharmacy students, they're like, 'I want to be you in five years,' and I was like, 'I guess I was thinking that when I was a pharmacy student, but I couldn't wait to be like one of my mentors,’” says Laura. Dalhousie prepares you to become a leader and mentor, ready to inspire future pharmacists.
Start Your Journey
Inspired by Laura’s journey? Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in pharmacy with Dalhousie University’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program. Our comprehensive curriculum and hands-on experience prepare you for the complex challenges of healthcare, allowing you to make a real difference in patients' lives.
- Explore the Program: Learn more about the PharmD program at Dalhousie University and how it prepares you for a successful career in pharmacy.
- Take the Quiz: Find out what kind of pharmacist you could be with our quick quiz.
- Get Personalized Guidance: Connect with Padam, our dedicated admissions advisor, for personalized guidance on your journey to becoming a pharmacist.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates, insights, and reminders about application deadlines and info sessions.
Keep watching the video series to learn more about the impact of pharmacists and the opportunities available through Dalhousie’s PharmD program.
