Madison Shotton is a third-year PharmD candidate at The University of Kansas School of Pharmacy.
Study. Go to class. Clock in to work. Study more. Go to sleep. Repeat. Sound familiar? For a lot of student pharmacists, this cycle becomes second nature as the semesters fly by. I know because I was stuck in it, too.
As a first-year student, I thought productivity meant pushing through with no time for myself. Now, as a third-year student, I’ve realized that success comes from balance. Making time for joy has transformed my pharmacy school journey from exhausting to fulfilling. Here’s a few ways I have done it.
Go outside
Luckily, my best friend—who happens to have four legs and a tail—drags me outside every single day. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a long walk, my dog makes sure I step away from my desk. I won’t lie; some mornings, it’s the last thing I want to do. But every time I get outside, breathe in the fresh air, and get some sunshine, I remember why it’s worth it. Even just 5 minutes outside can be the perfect reset.
Take fulfilling study breaks
We all need study breaks, but not all breaks feel the same when they’re over. It’s easy to get lost in the black hole of social media, but I’ve found that spending my breaks with friends and family makes a world of difference. Pharmacy school is tough, and having a solid group of people to laugh with makes the journey so much more enjoyable. Instead of scrolling, I grab a coffee, call my family, or sit and chat with my friends. The laughs, conversations, and shared experiences make everything feel a little lighter.
Embrace your little projects
Last year, my boyfriend and I took the leap and bought a fixer-upper. Every free weekend, we roll up our sleeves, put on some music, and work to turn it into a home. It’s been exhausting, rewarding, and the perfect creative outlet. But you don’t need a house to find your own project. Maybe it’s painting, knitting, cooking, or even just organizing your space. Having a hands-on hobby gives your brain a break from constant pharmacy-related thinking and lets you create something just for yourself.
Manage the time you already have
You might be thinking, “I don’t have time for this.” But I promise you do. It’s not about finding extra time; it’s about managing the time you already have. Study breaks are necessary, so why not use them wisely? Step outside. Laugh with your friends. Start up a project or hobby that makes you happy. You’ll come back feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on whatever pharmacy school throws your way.
After all, college is supposed to be fun, and pharmacy school shouldn’t be any different.