Looking down the path to success

June 2, 2008

This past week in the program has been pretty exciting. On Thursday, we visited the UNC School of Pharmacy where we were given a tour of the facility and given valuable information about the field of pharmacy. We discussed basic information about applying for professional schools as well as what we can do to become stronger applicants.

I learned a great deal of information that afternoon. I honestly didn’t know all the duties of a pharmacist prior to the tour last week. I think there are 3 or 4 scholars currently interested pursuing pharmacy, but after that others may decide to pursue this profession. Touring the School of Pharmacy was very insightful and well worth my time. It allowed me to become more aware of the profession and gave me a greater appreciation and respect for individuals who pursue this field.

On Saturday, May 31st, the SEP Scholars ventured down to Greenville, North Carolina for NC-HCAP’s ISIS lecture, held at East Carolina University. The keynote speaker was Mr. Clyde Johnson, the Assistant Dean of Diversity and Intercultural Development at Old Dominion University. His humorous and rather stern deliverance grabbed the attention of everyone in the building that night. He was a tremendous inspirational voice for all of us in attendance that evening. For me, he helped water the seed of “opportunity” that has been planted inside of me. It was his voice that further helped me understand what it truly means to be an aspiring health professional.

Along with the keynote presentation, there was a brief period of discussion with a panel of current health professional students. We were encouraged to ask questions pertaining to health professions, minority representation in health care, and successfully applying to professional school Corey Caldwell, a second year dental student at UNC, provided wonderful advice pertaining to individual preparation before and during one’s undergraduate career. He also discussed the importance of maintaining good academic standards, time management skills and becoming well involved within your chosen field. The importance of summer enrichment programs, research opportunities, shadowing and volunteering/clinical experiences was heavily emphasized by the panelists since they can provide you with a clear advantage over other applicants

This past week has been very hectic. Between full days of classes and two tests in both Organic Chemistry and Physics, I definitely had my work cut out for me. I think that this past weekend’s event was motivation and exactly what I needed. I’ll admit, I do wonder sometimes if I am cut out to be a Dental Professional…I feel like little obstacles may test my desire…but I have the passion, and like many great things in life, there is almost always a set of obstacles that may come between you and your path. I am still excited about being here and embracing this opportunity...I am continuously looking forward to the coming weeks!