Meet Dillon Solliday, a third year PharmD candidate at the University of Hawaii at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy. Dillon currently serves as his chapter’s Policy Vice President as well as the Region 8 Regional Delegate. He is interested in promoting public health through pharmacy and is considering a career in government affairs.
Can you tell us about your journey with APhA–ASP? Why did you choose to become a member and why do you remain a member?
When I first entered pharmacy school, I didn’t know what area of practice I wanted to go into, but APhA–ASP offered a chance to start getting involved regardless of specific interests. My university was the host chapter for the 2019 Midyear Regional Meeting (MRM) 2019 in Atlanta, GA, and I had an excellent opportunity to volunteer at the conference. As soon as I saw the passion of the student pharmacists in the Policy Proposal Forum, I knew I had to be a part of it! The next year, I found myself attending MRM as my chapter’s Policy Vice President and was thrilled to be elected as the Region 8 Regional Delegate. My involvement with APhA–ASP has uncovered many interests that I never would have imagined and there are countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. In my roles with APhA–ASP, I have been able to meet and work with amazing people across the country that will continue to be lifelong friends.
What is your favorite APhA–ASP memory?
That MRM in Atlanta was my first ever conference and will always hold a special place in my heart, but my favorite APhA–ASP memory would have to be the Annual Meeting and Exposition last March in San Antonio, TX. As one of the first big in person events following COVID 19 shutdowns, the whole week was teeming with energy. It was such an amazing experience meeting so many enthusiastic student pharmacists and active practitioners, and even advocating for our profession at the APhA–ASP House of Delegates!
What is your go-to Starbucks order?
If I’m enjoying a day off, I love their green tea lemonade, but if I need the caffeine (always!), I’ll go for a white chocolate mocha—it can be hot or iced, but never with any whipped cream.
If you were a superhero, what power would you have?
If I could choose any superpower, I would want to have a photographic memory. Just imagine all the time saved on studying pharmacy!
After a long day of school or work, what do you like to do in the evening to unwind?
After school, I like to go for a walk to stretch out after sitting all day long. If I’ve been working on my feet and moving around throughout the day, I’ll relax with some TV. I love most of the criminal drama series.
What is your favorite TikTok account to follow?
Watching Dr. Glaucomflecken videos can be considered studying, right?