Studying for pharmacy career?

Hey y'all, I'm thinking about pursuing a career as a pharmacist and I was wondering what types of classes or extracurriculars I should be focusing on in high school. Any suggestions?

Hey there! It's great that you're considering a career in pharmacy. To prepare for this career path, you should definitely focus on taking rigorous science and math courses throughout high school. Here's a list of courses and extracurriculars that would be helpful:

Courses:

1. Chemistry: Many pharmacy programs require multiple semesters of chemistry, so taking AP Chemistry or Honors Chemistry would be beneficial.

2. Biology: A solid foundation in biology is essential, so consider taking AP Biology or Honors Biology.

3. Math: Strong math skills are important in pharmacy, so take advanced math courses like calculus or statistics.

4. Physics: Although it might not be directly related, taking courses like AP Physics can help develop your problem-solving abilities and show your commitment to the sciences.

Extracurriculars:

1. Science clubs: Join clubs like Science Olympiad, HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), or a Chemistry Club, which will allow you to explore your interests more deeply and develop science-related skills.

2. Volunteering: Look for opportunities to volunteer in a healthcare setting, such as your local hospital or a pharmacy. This experience will show your dedication to the field and give you a better understanding of how pharmacists operate.

3. Research: Participate in research opportunities or science fairs at your school or seek out internships at local universities or research centers. This will help you gain exposure to scientific research and expand your knowledge.

4. Job shadowing: If possible, job-shadow a pharmacist to learn more about their daily responsibilities and what the profession entails. This can help you decide if pharmacy is truly the right path for you.

Remember, it's important to balance your course load and extracurriculars so that you can maintain good grades. Your academic performance will be a crucial factor when applying to pharmacy programs in the future. Best of luck on your journey towards a career in pharmacy!