BSPS Student Spotlight: Riley Haveman

Q & A

Why did you choose the R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy?

• I decided to go to the R Ken Coit College of Pharmacy because as an instate student I wanted to be able to go to a college that was still far enough away for me to truly create my own community away from what was comfortable- which for me is in Phoenix Az. I knew I wanted to get my undergraduate degree in something more specific than just Biochemistry or Chemistry and so the BSPS program offered here was the perfect fit for me. I was excited about the wealth of research opportunities offered within the college as well. Also, my grandfather actually went here to get his PharmD degree way back when and his picture is on the wall in Drachman Hall!
   

What’s your favorite spot on campus to relax or study?

• My favorite study spot on campus would have to be the Health Sciences Innovation Building (HSIB). I really love how many different study spaces that HSIB has to offer- the cafe, couches, desks, large and small study rooms, and even spaces outside for when it is nicer out.

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What aspect of pharmaceutical sciences excites you the most?

• The aspect of pharmaceutical sciences that excites me most is the ability to combine the knowledge that I have from basic science courses in the past (biology, chemistry and physics) to better understand the world around me. From the ingredients in my toothpaste to the mechanisms of disease, pharmaceutical sciences allows me to be more well versed in things (big and small) that affect my own life.
   

How do you plan to continue your education and professional development after graduation?

• In the future I hope to continue my education by going to graduate school to get my PhD. As of right now I would like to get my PhD in pharmaceutical sciences in order to continue learning about the many different areas within the field. I am really interested in better understanding the mechanisms behind diseases but also in researching the different delivery systems that allow drugs to get into the body.
   

What’s one hobby or interest you have that might surprise your classmates?

• An interest of mine that I think many of my classmates would be surprised to know about me is that I love ballroom dancing! I used to dance when I was younger but as I have become busier I haven't been able to keep up with lessons. Nowadays I get my ballroom dancing fix by avidly watching Dancing with the Stars each Tuesday when a new season drops every Fall. :)