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Kareli Vazquez

Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate
Student Headshot

Hometown: Yuma, AZ
 

Why did you choose to get your PharmD Degree?

I chose a PharmD Degree because of my interest and curiosity in medicinal drugs. After my own health journey with an autoimmune disease, I realized how little people may know on medications. I seek to help others the way pharmacists have for me in understanding how medications work.

 

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

The U of A Pharmacy program has many opportunities for involvement and felt very welcoming. It is a well established school, more affordable than others, and has high residency match rates.

 

What about being a PharmD Ambassador excites YOU the most?

I'm excited to share my pharmacy journey and offer support or advice to incoming students! I want to create a friendly environment and just keep it real and honest.

 

What inspires you most about the many possibilities a career in pharmacy can offer?

Pharmacy is an inspiring career because there are so many paths and different areas to explore. With lots of room for growth and opportunities, being a medication expert is rewarding.

 

What are your career interests?

My interests are in clinical/hospital pharmacy and managed care pharmacy. I value applying clinical knowledge while also understanding the system behind drug coverage. I also enjoy specialty and retail.

 

What piece of advice you would give to a prospective PharmD student?

Explore all fields of pharmacy and seek opportunities! It is so important to hear multiple people's perspectives on pharmacy and just as important to experience it yourself. If you can get experience early, do it. Start building good habits now that will last you throughout your student life and career.

 

On and off-campus involvement

I love to be involved! I am the President for the National Hispanic Pharmacists Association (NHPA) and Vice President of Membership for the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP). I also hold a position in the professional pharmacy fraternity, Phi Delta Chi. I have volunteered previously at Desert Mission Food Bank and at Sonoran Prevention Works. I work two jobs: inpatient at HonorHealth Scottsdale Medical Center and at Walmart Pharmacy. I am also a part of the Rural Health Professions Program (RHPP) where I support medically underserved areas!