Meranda Pham

Tell us why you chose UW.

I chose UW because of the supportive community, ample resources, and being in Seattle. Having grown up in Western Washington and going to UW for undergrad, I knew UW SOP was the best place for me to earn my pharmacy degree. As someone who is exploring all avenues of pharmacy, UW’s reputable pharmacy program and connections to community, hospital, and industry pharmacy made it an easy choice.

What led you to study pharmacy?

I’ve always been interested in health and believe that health is a human right. After volunteering in a mobile clinic in the pharmacy, I saw how pharmacists played a crucial role in accessibility to basic care. They can readily answer patients’ questions about their medications or their health, without needing to see their provider who could be miles away. I’m also drawn to drug research, as pharmacists have a comprehensive understanding of drug safety and efficacy. The utility of the pharmacist in healthcare and research is why I chose pharmacy as a career and makes me excited to explore more of it each day.

What is one piece of advice that you have for potential new students or one thing you wish you knew before beginning your studies?

You won’t know everything, and that’s ok – being vulnerable about your gaps in knowledge just means you have more room to grow. Make time for yourself and for those you love, because you won’t always get that time back. Work hard and cherish the time you have now – you won’t be a student forever. It will all work out!