Rachel Allen is a final-year PharmD candidate at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy.
1. As you reflect on your student pharmacist experience thus far, what are some of your favorite memories?
My favorite memory as a student pharmacist has been serving as a vice-chair for the Operation Diabetes patient care initiative during my first year. Serving in this position combined my passions for nutrition, fitness, and motivational interviewing. I also served alongside one of my new best friends in the position!
2. Pharmacy school is demanding, especially when you add on additional activities. How do you manage all of your responsibilities?
Time management is so important in pharmacy school. I use my email calendar to block times for dedicated periods of studying, working on projects, and personal life. I also make lists for the week and break projects into smaller tasks to work on over the entire week.
Most importantly, work–life balance is key. When there is time off from school, I schedule time with family and friends to rest and recharge.
3. What are some of your favorite leadership tools and/or resources?
My favorite has to be the book Start Here: Master the Lifelong Habit of Wellbeing . My husband, who works for an accounting firm, actually read this book first and shared it with me. I think it is important for leaders to invest in themselves and their well-being in order to be able to invest in others, continue to serve others, and avoid burnout.
4. What does being a leader mean, and what does being selected for this award mean, to you?
Being a leader means leading by example, showing up, and serving in whatever capacity is needed for your organization. Being a leader also means investing in the next generation of leaders to continue the projects, hard work, and legacy of your organization. This award has been an incredible honor, and I share it with all the other leaders who I worked alongside in APhA–ASP.
5. What’s next for you?
As rotations have started, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning firsthand and implementing everything I have learned in class. I am looking forward to my rotations in the ambulatory care setting, as I am interested in pursuing postgraduate training in this area of practice.