Erick Santana
Hometown: San Luis, AZ
Why did you choose to get your PharmD Degree?
I chose to pursue a PharmD Degree not just to attain financial freedom but to be able to make a meaningful impact on people's health. I also wanted to further educate myself on the study of medicine and how to apply that knowledge to help others improve their health with or without the use of medication.
Why did you choose the University of Arizona R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy?
Because of its prestige and because I am a wildcat through and through!
What about being a PharmD Ambassador excites YOU the most?
I am excited to boast about how great the UofA is and shed light on how great a program the College of Pharmacy offers through the PharmD.
What inspires you most about the many possibilities a career in pharmacy can offer?
I am deeply inspired and motivated by the fact that the possibilities in pharmacy are truly endless and you are never truly stuck in one area.
What are your career interests?
I am currently interested in pursuing hospital pharmacy as a clinical specialist or compounding pharmacy with a focus on both sterile and non-sterile practices.
What piece of advice you would give to a prospective PharmD student?
Try always to be optimistic and remember that after the worst storms come the sunniest days with the most beautiful rainbows. However, be prepared to work hard during the heaviest storms to relish the sunny days that come after.
On and off-campus involvement
I try my best to always remain professional in and out of school settings. I know that at the end of the day I will always be associated with the UofA's RKCCOP; therefore, I try my best to always put my best foot forward. I am part of many of the clubs associated with the college and am active in all of them. This includes going to Pharmacy Day at the Capitol, volunteer opportunities throughout the school year, and all of the different club meetings. I am also currently working full-time over the Summers and part-time during school at Hims&Hers Pharmacy, where I work as a compounding pharmacist intern. It is at this position that I work on projects to help improve our USP-795 and USP-800 practices as well as compound non-sterile medications.