Kneading peace
Annemarie Rodriguez is a third-year PharmD candidate at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, Jacksonville.
Student pharmacists are not immune to stress. I think PharmCAS should include a warning about the inevitable stress that accompanies these 3 to 4 years because it is something you cannot escape. Whether it is the pressure of studying for an exam worth half of your grade or grappling with complex pharmacotherapy concepts, you have all felt it at some point.
One of the most crucial aspects of managing stress is finding effective ways to unwind. For me, this took years of trial and error. As current president of my APhA–ASP Chapter, with six other e-board positions, two jobs, and my own personal life, stress has become a constant in my daily routine. Life was kind of hectic.
Then I stumbled upon a new way to manage my stress: baking.
The perfect outlet
In my first year and a half of pharmacy school, I fell into the trap of mindlessly scrolling on TikTok when I was overwhelmed. I would find myself engrossed in learning the latest trending dances, completely ignoring how to treat a patient’s MRSA infection. Eventually, I found solace in rewatching my comfort shows, with The Great British Bake Off leading the pack.
Baking has become a surprisingly effective outlet for me. When I have an exam looming, I make cookies and beat the batter until it’s perfectly smooth. If I get a grade that did not quite meet my expectations, I make bread and knead out my frustration. Following a detailed recipe step-by-step allows my brain to take a much-needed break and just trust the process.
Plus, baking gets me moving in a way that is both productive and active. In a field where long hours at a desk or standing in one fixed spot can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, baking provides a welcome physical break. Who can argue that lifting a heavy baking tray is not the same as lifting two plates at the gym? It is a simple yet effective way to combine physical activity with a creative outlet.
A delicious reward for staying active
The process of baking feels calming and enjoyable. Measuring out ingredients, mixing the batter, and watching it bake requires my full attention, which diverts my mind from worries and into a state of relaxation. Once the baking starts, I can afford to step away and tackle other tasks while it is in the oven. This not only makes the process fun, but also helps me stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.
Baking gets me “up and going.” It energizes me to handle other tasks with a renewed sense of purpose. And the reward? A delicious treat that I can enjoy after all that hard work.
APhA–ASP National President Miranda Montoya’s 2024–2025 presidential theme is “Each of Us, for All of Us.” So, whether you share the same hobby as me or not, I hope my story inspires you to find your peace.