Lakin Gardner is a third-year PharmD candidate at The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy. In March, she received an APhA Student Leadership Award at the 2025 APhA Annual Meeting & Exposition in Nashville, TN.
Student Pharmacist Magazine (SPM): As you reflect on your student pharmacist experience thus far, what are some of your favorite memories?
Gardner: I am deeply grateful for the memories I’ve had the privilege of creating with my cohort in Tucson, AZ. I have truly enjoyed the experiences we shared outside the classroom, including participating in Big Little events, engaging in intramural sports through Kappa Psi, and running a half marathon with a few close friends. One of the most meaningful memories has been our collective efforts to serve the community through health fairs. It has been an incredible experience to collaborate with such exceptional faculty, students, and preceptors.
SPM: Pharmacy school is demanding, especially when you add on additional activities. How do you manage all of your responsibilities?
Gardner: I make it a priority to carefully plan my responsibilities while also incorporating activities that help me recharge. I believe the key to managing multiple responsibilities lies in maintaining motivation during challenging times and having a strong support network of remarkable individuals. I could not have achieved any of this without the unwavering support of those around me, who have believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself.
SPM: What are some of your favorite leadership tools and/or resources?
Gardner: My mentors have been my most invaluable leadership resource. I’ve had the privilege of connecting with and collaborating with a diverse group of pharmacists, professors, peers, and acquaintances who have played a pivotal role in teaching me how to lead and providing feedback that has been essential to my growth.
Additionally, I consistently seek out podcasts and other resources to enhance my leadership skills. One of my favorites is The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon.
SPM: What does being a leader mean, and what does being selected for this award mean to you?
Gardner: Being a leader means not only guiding others, but also listening to those around you and making necessary adjustments to foster a system and culture that encourages engagement and excitement. Being selected for this award means so much to me. I cannot thank my health fair team enough for their hard work and support in making everything we did possible. I feel so blessed to be surrounded by amazing people who are so dedicated to serving our community. My team has made it possible for me to receive this award, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to receive this award; I am truly so honored.
SPM: Who is your favorite songwriter and why?
One of my favorite songwriters is Vance Joy. His music reminds me of my hometown and the cherished memories of times at the lake with my family, and going on drives with my childhood best friend.
SPM: What’s next for you?
Gardner: Next, I plan to pursue a PGY1 residency. I am unsure of which practice setting I would like to go forward with right now, since I have many interests in various topics. I am excited to explore the world of pharmacy through my upcoming rotations. I anticipate a PGY2 to follow, likely specializing in inpatient pharmacy topics including emergency medicine, cardiology, or critical care.