Why early precepting matters for new practitioners
EDUCATION
By Nicole Miracle, PharmD, MPH, CSP
The transition from student to new practitioner can feel overwhelming at times. While trying to adapt to demanding work environments, adjusting to “real” adult life, and navigating workplace dynamics, precepting may seem like the last pursuit considering competing responsibilities. However, stepping into the preceptor role early in your career can be extremely rewarding for both preceptor and student. Having the privilege to precept students has enhanced my professional development and provided me with a sense of purpose not only in my current role, but in the profession as a whole.
You are learning and developing skills, too
New practitioners may feel like they are starting from scratch, only able to draw on experiences from pharmacy school. This can be a daunting feeling knowing that you need to continually “build your CV.” Precepting is a great way to organically start building leadership qualities, professional connections, and give back to the profession. Remember, you don’t have to be the expert on day one in order to be an effective preceptor.
Just like students, you are learning and developing skills. Don’t underestimate the current value that you bring to a student’s learning experience! Be transparent with your learners and discuss some of the challenges you face, then show the students what you do in your day-to-day practice and how that positively impacts patients. Sure, there are numerous forms of resources and support that you can and should seek out to better yourself as a preceptor, but do not let your lack of experience prevent you from stepping into a preceptor role. As a new practitioner, you bring a unique perspective and can offer valuable insights to support a collaborative learning environment for student pharmacists.
Recently walked in their shoes
Because you are a new practitioner, you are likely more in tuned to the experiences and challenges that students currently face, which allows you to offer relatable advice and mentorship. You can vividly remember completing rotations, deciding which path to pursue postgraduation, and applying for jobs or postgraduate training opportunities. These lived experiences are often still relevant to help today’s student pharmacists navigate and prepare for the next phase of their career. Your unique position as a new practitioner will help you to connect with them to set a strong foundation for mentorship and academic success.
A professional growth opportunity
Being a new practitioner preceptor can also set you apart professionally. Many employers view preceptorship as a demonstration of leadership and overall commitment to the profession. Engaging in preceptorship opens the door to networking opportunities within your local college or school of pharmacy and within professional pharmacy organizations. Pharmacy is a small world. Establishing early connections can help set you up for future professional growth.
Becoming a preceptor as a new practitioner allows you to capitalize on a critical time in your career. As a new practitioner, you are in a unique position to shape the future of pharmacy while simultaneously building your personal skills as a leader and educator. It is never too early to get involved, and the rewards—both personal and professional—are well worth the investment.
Nicole L. Miracle, PharmD, MPH, CSP, is a pharmacist at the University of Kentucky Specialty Pharmacy and Infusion Services—where she serves as the education and competency coordinator—and is the 2024–2025 New Practitioner Advisory Committee Member-at- large/Education Standing Committee Liaison. Nicole enjoys mentoring, teaching, and contributing to the advancement of community and specialty pharmacy. Outside of pharmacy, she enjoys exercising, traveling, and spending time with her husband and cat.