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Rosalind Franklin University
ICHP P1 Liaison Reflection

College Connection

by Brit Der, PS-1 ICHP Liaison, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, School of Pharmacy

Pharmacy school is difficult and requires a great deal of studying. Yet, I learned that earning the title of  Doctor of Pharmacy is more than just studying. It also pertains to the various experiences and opportunities that you encounter. Adapting to my first year in pharmacy school was challenging. I also had the privilege of being appointed as the first year pharmacy student liaison for ICHP. Balancing this officer role made it quite an interesting year.

My role was to act as a communication resource between the chapter, the Dean, and the first year class. The opportunity to attend e-board meetings allowed me to observe the different responsibilities of each role, and the teamwork it required to prepare different events as well as meetings. As the communication resource, I was aware of all the different events that were held by the organization such as the Diabetes Expo and Legislative Day. All the events that I attended provided me with more insight in the clinical field of pharmacy and were great learning experiences. Personally, I am deciding upon the field of pharmacy which I want to pursue, but serving in ICHP has influenced me tremendously to consider the clinical setting.

In addition, serving as the P1 Liaison provided a positive outlet from the constant studying. The liaison position provided me with something different and exciting. The opportunity to connect with others was also an aspect that I did not expect to receive from the position. I had the opportunity to meet many upperclassmen and faculty in our school of pharmacy as well as even alumni that attended some of the events. I was able to slowly learn how to network and gradually come out of my comfort zone. I believe that this was one of the most important aspects that I learned. Mainly because knowing that the pharmacy network is fairly small, any individual in the field that I met was a potential important connection for my future. Overall, the P1 Liaison position was a rewarding experience. I learned a great deal about the clinical field of pharmacy, connected with many future colleagues, and ultimately learned how to manage an officer position with the workload of pharmacy school. I believe that this is a great officer role for incoming first year students that provides a great way to get involved as well as learn more about the clinical field of pharmacy. Studying is essential, but the learning experiences are what shape you as you earn the prestigious title Doctor of Pharmacy.