Ashley McKechan is a third-year PharmD candidate at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy at the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy and a 2024–2025 APhA–ASP national member-at-large.
Those of you who are final-year student pharmacists find yourself at a pivotal moment—amid rotations, fellowship and residency interviews, and preparations for life after graduation. However, it is crucial to recognize that graduation is not the end of a journey but the beginning of a new chapter. The experiences you’ve gained thus far, both academically and personally, have shaped you into the professional you are today. Rather than leaving behind your past self, you should take time to reflect on how your journey has prepared you for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Though you will soon shed the designation of student pharmacist, it is essential to remember that your educational experiences, particularly involvement in organizations such as APhA–ASP, will remain integral to your professional development. Through APhA–ASP, I have had the privilege of growing both personally and professionally, forming lasting connections with peers who share my passion for advancing the profession. This organization has been a driving force in inspiring me to continually strive to be a better practitioner, and I am committed to carrying that momentum forward into my career.
The NPN
Graduation will not mark the end of my involvement with APhA; in fact, it represents a transition to a new phase of engagement. APhA is dedicated to advancing the future of pharmacy, not only by fostering student development, but also by supporting new practitioners as they navigate the early stages of their careers. The APhA New Practitioner Network (NPN) provides invaluable resources for newly graduated pharmacists, offering financial education, webinars on career pathways, leadership opportunities, and resources specifically designed to help new practitioners thrive. By joining the NPN, you are not only continuing your professional development; you will also connect with a community of peers to share experiences and insights as you embark on this new phase of your career.
Additionally, the New Practitioner Mentor Program allows you to remain involved with APhA–ASP by giving back to current student pharmacists. This initiative provides an opportunity to help shape the next generation of pharmacists, while also reinforcing your own commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.
Embrace the opportunities
As you prepare for graduation and the next steps in your career, it is important to embrace the opportunities for continued engagement, reflection, and self-improvement. Your education has prepared you to take on new challenges, and your involvement with organizations like APhA will ensure that you continue to evolve as leaders in the pharmacy profession.