PharmD Student Spotlight: Blair Jensen
Nov. 19, 2024
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Jensen, from Whittier, California, graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in Business Economics and is currently a P4 pharmacy student set to graduate in May 2025. Inspired by her father who owned his own pharmacy, she aims to follow in his footsteps with a career in independent retail pharmacy and hopes to own a business someday. Outside academics, she enjoys unwinding with reality TV or spending time outdoors on the golf course.
Q & A
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in pharmacy school?
- It’s easy to focus solely on exams, but pharmacy school is also a great time to explore specialties and learn from every experience, whether it’s in the classroom, during rotations, or while networking. Find a good balance between studying and taking time for yourself—self-care is essential for success in this demanding field.
What inspired you to pursue a career in pharmacy?
- Growing up, I watched my dad run his own pharmacy, and I saw firsthand the positive impact he had on his patients and the community. His dedication to helping family members and others inspired me to follow in his footsteps. I realized that pharmacists play a crucial role in patient care, often serving as the first point of contact for healthcare needs.
What area of pharmacy practice are you most interested in, and why?
- I’m particularly interested in independent retail pharmacy. There’s something special about building long-term relationships with patients, understanding their health journeys, and making personalized healthcare accessible. It also allows for the possibility of entrepreneurship, which combines my background in business with my passion for pharmacy.
What qualities do you believe are essential for a successful pharmacist?
- A successful pharmacist should be compassionate, detail-oriented, and adaptable. Compassion is crucial because pharmacists often support patients during vulnerable times. Attention to detail ensures patient safety and accuracy in every prescription. And adaptability is essential, given the ever-evolving nature of healthcare, medication, and patient needs. There is never a dull moment!
What’s one misconception about pharmacists that you wish more people understood?
- Many people think pharmacists simply count pills, but there’s so much more to the profession. Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare providers who offer medication counseling, perform health screenings, manage chronic conditions, and ensure safe and effective medication use. We’re here to provide personalized care and are an accessible resource for health-related questions.