*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
As part of my non-traditional career series, I have invited the one and only, Jamie Wilkey onto the podcast for a fun Q&A. On this episode of the podcast, we'll have the opportunity to ask Jamie as many questions about her own journey as well as what's she's building for her audience to help them land jobs in all the non-traditional sectors.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4602578677399552
*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
We're halfway through the non-traditional pharmacy career series, having featured Adam Quicquaro (Clinical Development), Lauren Curtis, Steve Aluoch, Nikita Patel, and Lauren Castle. Each conversation has revealed paths most pharmacists never knew existed.But here's what I've realised - I've been asking all the questions without sharing my own journey from traditional hospital pharmacist to podcaster, content creator, and business owner. Instead of me interviewing someone else, YOU get to interview me. Live on YouTube.What you might want to know:- How I went from paediatric hospital pharmacist to full-time content creator- The financial reality of building a business while working PRN- Mistakes I made in the transition (there were many)- How I handle the uncertainty of non-traditional income- What my typical week looks like now vs. when I was commuting 3 hours daily to London- The mindset shifts required to leave "secure" employment- How I built an audience from zero- The role fear played in my decision-makingOr ask me anything else.This isn't scripted. No prepared talking points. Just honest conversation about what it's actually like to create your own non-traditional path as a pharmacist.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.🎙️
New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4602578677399552
*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
Are you tired of just managing symptoms instead of solving root causes? 💊➡️🌱Join us as Lauren Castle, founder of the Functional Medicine Pharmacist Alliance, shares how she transformed from a corporate retail pharmacist into a functional medicine pioneer. Discover how personal health challenges led her to create a whole new career path that's helping pharmacists find fulfillment while truly healing patients.
In this episode, you'll learn:
✅ What functional medicine actually means for pharmacists
✅ How to start integrating functional approaches into your current role
✅ The reality of building a practice that focuses on root causes, not just pills
✅ Why Lauren left the corporate ladder to help other PharmDs find their passion againThis is perfect for pharmacists feeling burned out by traditional practice and ready to make a real difference in patient care.
Lauren is hosting a Functional Medicine Pharmacists Bootcamp which you can enroll into now through September 22nd: https://fmpha.org/fmphb
Functional Medicine Pharmacists Alliance (FMPhA) homepage: https://fmpha.org
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4602578677399552
*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
I was scrolling through Dr. Nikita Patel's LinkedIn and seeing titles like:
→ Director, Clinical Research & AI at Function Health→ AI-SaMD Technical Advisor→ Senior Scientist-Engineer at Mission Bio→ PhD in Biomedical Engineering→ Leading "AI projects across diagnostics, clinical evidence pipelines, and human performance optimisation"
I'm thinking "wow, this woman is brilliant" and then I see it...
GPHC-registered UK Pharmacist.
Wait... WHAT?! 🤯
As a fellow pharmacist, I had absolutely NO IDEA our degree could set us up for roles like this. But the more I think about it, the more it makes perfect sense.
We're trained in:
✓ Complex data analysis (drug interactions, dosing algorithms)
✓ Evidence evaluation (clinical trials, systematic reviews)
✓ Risk assessment (contraindications, safety profiles)
✓ Systems thinking (pharmacokinetics, disease pathways)✓ Patient outcome optimisation
That's literally the foundation of healthcare AI and biotech innovation. We just never connected the dots!
In this episode, I sit down with Nikita to dive deep into:
This conversation is going to completely change how you view your potential.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
Tired of traditional pharmacy roles? Meet Dr. Steve Aluoch, the PharmD who might be behind some of your favourite drug commercials on TV. In this episode, Steve shares how he transformed his clinical background into a six-figure medical communications career, earning $80K-$180K+ while working remotely with global pharmaceutical companies. Discover what medical communications really is, the day-to-day life of a medical writer, exact salary ranges by experience level, and Steve's step-by-step path from dispensing medications to creating compelling content that reaches millions. If you're a pharmacist looking for creativity, better work-life balance, and higher earning potential, this non-traditional career path might be your perfect pivot.🎯 In This Episode:What medical communications professionals actually doSteve's journey from pharmacy technician to creative directorSalary breakdown: $80K-$200K+ depending on levelEntry-level roles perfect for pharmacistsHow to build your writing portfolio and break into the industry
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH STEVE:
LinkedIn: Steve Aluoch
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
Join me for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Lauren Curtis, who transformed her retail pharmacy career into a thriving six-figure role as a Product Manager in health tech. Lauren shares her journey from being a stressed CVS manager to earning double her retail salary while working Monday-Friday with actual work-life balance.
Dr. Lauren Curtis is a Product Manager in health tech who started her career in retail pharmacy at CVS. Over a decade ago, she made the bold decision to send a cold email to PillPack, which completely changed her career trajectory. She now helps design healthcare technology tools while earning significantly more than her retail pharmacy days and maintaining excellent work-life balance.
💼 Understanding Health Tech Roles
📊 Salary & Compensation (USD)
Best Entry Strategy:
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH LAUREN:
LinkedIn: Lauren Curtis
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
*This podcast episode was originally a YouTube LIVE with Q&A which you can watch on my YouTube channel here. This is a series of episodes I am doing on non-traditional careers running from July to December 2025. Sign up to my shared Google Calendar here so you never miss an episode*
In this episode of Pharmacist Diaries, I’m joined by Adam Quicaro, a pharmacist who transitioned into the world of clinical development at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, the rare disease arm of AstraZeneca. This conversation kicks off our brand-new series exploring non-traditional pharmacy careers — and Adam’s story is the perfect place to start.
Adam walks us through his journey from working in an independent community pharmacy during high school to landing a fellowship in medical affairs, and eventually finding his true calling in clinical development. He shares how his childhood curiosity and love for science led him to pharmacy, but how it was a blend of strategic thinking, innovation, and a desire to solve complex problems that pulled him toward the pharmaceutical industry.
We explore the differences between medical affairs and clinical development, what a typical day looks like in his role, and why pharmacists are uniquely positioned to succeed in the pharma space — especially those with a strong foundation in therapeutics, pharmacology, and patient care.
Adam also opens up about the realities of salary expectations, comparing entry-level roles and fellowships, and highlighting the long-term rewards of working in industry. He talks about the benefits of hybrid working, generous leave policies, and how this role supports him not just as a pharmacist, but as a new dad seeking balance and fulfillment.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work behind the scenes of a clinical trial, or if you're curious about how to pivot out of a traditional role, this episode is full of honest, practical advice and inspiration. Whether you're a student or seasoned pharmacist, Adam’s story will get you thinking about what’s possible.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH ADAM:
LinkedIn: Adam Quicquaro
CONNECT WITH JAMIE WILKEY:
This podcast series is in collaboration with Dr Jamie Wilkey, the Misfit PharmD and author of the LoveMyPharmD newsletter that over 20,000+ pharmacists read weekly. Connect with Jamie here.
Follow me on.YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
This conversation explores the journey of Emeka Onwudiwe, a pharmacy student and talented entrepreneur who founded a record label and the lessons he learned along the way. He discusses the importance of humility, the therapeutic power of music, and the innovative approaches taken to stand out in the music industry. He emphasises the significance of building strong relationships with artists and how skills from a pharmacy career translate into entrepreneurial endeavours. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal growth and the future of his career.
💡 Sleep Better, Work Smarter If you're a pharmacy student or pharmacist spending long hours in front of a screen (especially in the evenings like I do when working on the podcast!), I highly recommend checking out the blue light blocking glasses from Ocushield. They've made a huge difference to my sleep quality and reduced my eye fatigue—plus, the frames are super stylish!
🎁 I've found a 20% off family & friends discount that you can access through the link below. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
👉 Grab your discount here
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH EMEKA:
Linkedin: Emeka Onwudiwe
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In this powerful episode, we follow the inspiring and deeply personal story of Emeka Onwudiwe, a pharmacy student at the University of East Anglia. Emeka shares how he went from failing his GCSEs and taking an unexpected path through a BTEC in Health and Social Care to becoming the National President of the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA).
👩🏽⚕️ This is not your typical pharmacy journey. Emeka opens up about:
- Failing GCSEs and taking the non-traditional BTEC route
- Discovering pharmacy later than most through a foundation year
-Struggling with time management and reassessments
-Learning to study smarter (hello, active recall + question-based revision)
Leading with purpose, including hosting a sickle cell conference in memory of a friend
Stepping up from Aero Coordinator to BPSA President
Why removing "I can't" from his mindset changed everything
🎓 Whether you’re in your first year of pharmacy or preparing for registration, this episode will inspire you to rethink what's possible—no matter where you’re starting from.
💡 Sleep Better, Work Smarter If you're a pharmacy student or pharmacist spending long hours in front of a screen (especially in the evenings like I do when working on the podcast!), I highly recommend checking out the blue light blocking glasses from Ocushield. They've made a huge difference to my sleep quality and reduced my eye fatigue—plus, the frames are super stylish!
🎁 I've found a 20% off family & friends discount that you can access through the link below. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
👉 Grab your discount here
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH EMEKA:
Linkedin: Emeka Onwudiwe
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
This episode pulls back the curtain on what really happens after pharmacy graduation, focusing on the complex transition from university life to professional responsibility. Sue Wong shares her candid experiences from her foundation year at Great Ormond Street Hospital, revealing the challenges and insights that universities don't typically prepare students for.
1. Mental health struggles are common in healthcare - depression and anxiety affect many pharmacy students, but talking openly about it with friends and seeking professional help can be game-changing for your career
2. Professional responsibility hits like a truck - going from student life to signing off medications with your license on the line is a massive psychological shift that universities can't fully prepare you for
3. Paediatric healthcare is emotionally brutal - seeing critically ill children hooked up to machines will shake you, and case studies don't prepare you for the real emotional toll of patient care
4. You'll need to master multiple types of communication - beyond patient counselling, you'll need to hand over to colleagues, educate nurses, present cases, and build relationships with supervisors
5. Your career interests will surprise you - foundation year rotations reveal unexpected passions; Sue thought she'd hate office-based work but fell in love with medicines information and research
6. Leadership skills develop through doing, not learning - extracurricular activities like BPSA teach you team management, project coordination, and how to work with diverse personalities
7. Uncertainty and imposter syndrome are normal - feeling unprepared is part of the job; success comes from knowing your resources, asking questions, and prioritizing patient safety above ego
8. Work-life balance requires intentional strategy - waking up at 5 AM to study might sound impossible, but finding what works for your energy patterns is crucial for sustainable practice
9. Growth mindset beats natural confidence - curiosity and willingness to learn from experienced colleagues matter more than feeling ready; expertise develops through repetition and exposure
10. Self-care isn't optional for healthcare professionals - maintaining friendships, regular breaks, and enjoyable activities during intense periods prevents burnout and makes you a better pharmacist
💡 Sleep Better, Work Smarter If you're a pharmacy student or pharmacist spending long hours in front of a screen (especially in the evenings like I do when working on the podcast!), I highly recommend checking out the blue light blocking glasses from Ocushield. They've made a huge difference to my sleep quality and reduced my eye fatigue—plus, the frames are super stylish!
🎁 I've found a 20% off family & friends discount that you can access through the link below. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
👉 Grab your discount here
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students.
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
CONNECT WITH Sue:
Linkedin: Sue Wong
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In this inspiring episode, Harvey John, a fourth-year pharmacy student at Swansea University, shares his remarkable journey from being told he'd never succeed academically due to his dyslexia diagnosis at age 9, to becoming an award-winning student leader. Harvey reveals how he transformed his perceived limitations into superpowers, founded his university's first pharmacy society, and developed a systematic approach to balancing demanding academics with leadership roles, family time, and personal interests.
Through candid storytelling, he demonstrates that success isn't about being the smartest person in the room—it's about being strategic, resilient, and leveraging what makes you unique.
What you'll learn:
1. Transform your unique challenges into superpowers
2. Create opportunities rather than wait for them
3. Master visual time management through colour-coded scheduling
4. Build strategic support networks both inside and outside Pharmacy
5. Discover and leverage your pharmacy passion as daily motivation
💡 Sleep Better, Work Smarter If you're a pharmacy student or pharmacist spending long hours in front of a screen (especially in the evenings like I do when working on the podcast!), I highly recommend checking out the blue light blocking glasses from Ocushield. They've made a huge difference to my sleep quality and reduced my eye fatigue—plus, the frames are super stylish!
🎁 I've found a 20% off family & friends discount that you can access through the link below. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
👉 Grab your discount here
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH HARVEY:
Linkedin: Harvey John
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
Hey there pharmacy family! Welcome back to the Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students Series! Today we're tackling something every single one of us can relate to...those moments when pharmacy school gets really tough.
Have you ever looked at your module and thought, "There is absolutely no way I'm going to get through this"? Today's episode is your ultimate survival guide. Meet Martina Aikon, BPSA's Annual Conference Organiser and honestly, just a total boss when it comes to turning academic challenges into opportunities. Born and raised in London, Martina crossed borders to study at Swansea University with a passion for chemistry - but without the traditional A-level Biology background.
This isn't just another study tips episode. She’s giving you practical steps you can implement right away. Whether you're struggling with a tough subject, feeling behind, or if you’ve wondered if you belong in pharmacy at all - get ready for three game-changing strategies that will completely reshape how you approach your pharmacy studies.
Key Takeaways
The conversation with Martina offers valuable insights for pharmacy students:
don't hesitate to seek help from professors and utilise university resources – you're paying for your education, so make the most of it.
Say yes to opportunities, even if they seem outside your comfort zone, as you never know where they might lead.
Consider using journaling as a tool for reflection, personal growth, and practicing gratitude.
Remember that extracurricular activities develop transferable skills like leadership, time management, and communication that are invaluable in pharmacy practice.
Finally, consider how your unique perspective can contribute to improving the pharmacy profession as a whole.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH MARTINA:
Linkedin: Martina Aikon
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In this final episode of my special three-part series with Leya Luhar, we dive deep into the significant changes coming to pharmacy education in 2026, when all pharmacy students will qualify as prescribers upon graduation.
We explore the monumental change happening in pharmacy education, where all graduates will qualify as prescribers. This represents a fundamental transformation in the profession's scope and responsibilities. Leya and I discuss how this change will better position pharmacists as medication experts within the healthcare system and potentially reduce medication errors.
Key Takeaways
Pharmacists are ideally positioned to be prescribers - Their deep medication knowledge positions them to reduce errors and improve patient outcomes
The curriculum shift aligns with student preferences - Research shows pharmacy students often prefer the clinical aspects over heavy science components
Students must embrace a proactive approach to learning - Unlike traditional pharmacy placements, students will need to take more ownership of their learning experience
Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential - Learning from doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals will be crucial
Networking during placements creates future opportunities - Connections made during placements can lead to projects, mentorship, and future employment
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH LEYA:
Linkedin: Leya Luhar
Website: https://www.oscetoolbox.com/
Instagram: @OSCEtoolbox
TikTok: @OSCEtoolbox
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In the second episode of our special three-part series with Leya Luhar, we tackle one of the most frequently asked questions I receive in my DMs: "Should I choose pharmacy or medicine?"
Instead of just sharing my perspective, I brought on Leya - a medical student and entrepreneur - to offer insights from someone currently experiencing medical school firsthand.
This episode provides an honest, in-depth comparison between these two healthcare pathways, helping A-level students and career changers make informed decisions about their future.
Check out my website for full shownotes as I provide a lot more detail on the differences between medicine and pharmacy.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH LEYA:
Linkedin: Leya Luhar
Website: https://www.oscetoolbox.com/
Instagram: @OSCEtoolbox
TikTok: @OSCEtoolbox
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In this first episode of our special three-part series, we introduce Leya Luhar, a medical student and the founder of OSCE Toolbox, a platform revolutionising OSCE preparation for pharmacy students across the UK. Leya shares her journey from considering various career paths to ultimately finding her passion in medicine. She discusses the challenges of medical school, including the intense workload and learning to maintain a healthier work-life balance.
As pharmacy education evolves – with significant changes coming in 2026 when all pharmacy students will qualify as prescribers – OSCE exams are becoming more interactive and clinically focused. OSCE Toolbox offers over 200 scenarios with detailed mark schemes, demonstration videos, and educational resources to help students navigate these challenges.
Key Takeaway Messages:
Identifying gaps in education resources can lead to entrepreneurial opportunities, even while still studying.
Building the right team is crucial when balancing business development with demanding studies.
OSCEs are transformative for pharmacy students, becoming more interactive and including prescribing skills by 2026.
Practice is essential for OSCE success – resources that allow repeated practice in realistic scenarios can significantly reduce anxiety.
Career flexibility is increasingly valued by the new generation of healthcare professionals who want to pursue multiple passions.
Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3 of our conversation, where we'll explore the medicine versus pharmacy debate and examine the significant changes coming to pharmacy education in 2026.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students.
Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH LEYA:
Linkedin: Leya Luhar
Website: https://www.oscetoolbox.com/
Instagram: @OSCEtoolbox
TikTok: @OSCEtoolbox
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In this powerful episode of the Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students Series, I enjoy a deep dive conversation with Ewoma Ayetuoma. Ewoma is a British drug-free powerlifting association world record holder and fourth-year pharmacy student at the University of East Anglia. After facing rejection from medical schools, he pivoted to pharmacy, where he overcame first and second-year resits while building an impressive extracurricular profile.
As BPSA's IT Officer, he manages their digital presence and technological infrastructure, developing valuable skills beyond traditional pharmacy education. Despite family relocations between Leeds and Bristol and academic setbacks, Ewoma has transformed challenges into opportunities, combining his passion for powerlifting with his developing identity as a future clinical pharmacist.This conversation explores the emotional and practical realities of navigating unexpected career paths when life doesn't go according to plan.
Ewoma candidly shares his experience of medical school rejection and the subsequent soul-searching that led him to pharmacy—a field he initially knew nothing about. We explore how this "Plan B" transformed into a passionate career path as he discovered his natural affinity for patient interactions and clinical problem-solving, ultimately leading to his decision to pursue hospital pharmacy.
The discussion weaves through Ewoma's parallel journey as a world record powerlifter, revealing the profound connections between athletic discipline and academic success. His story of failing first-year exams and rebuilding his academic approach offers invaluable insights for students struggling with university transitions. Throughout the episode, we uncover the systems, routines, and mindset shifts that enabled Ewoma to excel across multiple demanding domains.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH EWOMA:
Linkedin: Ewoma Ayetuoma
Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA) TODAY. You won’t regret it!
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com
From the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany to the halls of British pharmacy education, this week's episode features Craig Ndip. Craig Ndip is the Vice President of the British Pharmaceutical Students' Association (BPSA) and a fourth-year pharmacy student. He grew up in the beautiful hills of Tuscany, Italy, where he developed a love for food and landscapes. After moving to the UK as a teenager without knowing English, Craig overcame significant challenges to pursue his education. Alongside his academic pursuits, he found immense fulfillment in helping others through volunteering as a first aider, which sparked his passion for healthcare. Craig is working hard to learn everything he can about patient care, with the goal of becoming an exceptional healthcare professional who can make a difference in his community.
Craig shares his remarkable journey of moving from Italy to the UK at age 16, overcoming language barriers, depression, and imposter syndrome to become a leader in pharmacy education. This isn't just a story about moving countries—it's about building a new family within pharmacy, turning strangers into lifelong friends, and discovering that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is start over.
In This Episode
Craig's emotional journey from Italy to the UK at 16 without knowing English
How the initial isolation and language barrier led to depression and self-doubt
The breakthrough moment that changed his trajectory
Finding his path to pharmacy after originally planning to study medicine
Building resilience through adaptation and stepping outside his comfort zone
How joining university clubs (especially American football) helped him discover his talent for connecting with people
His journey from shy international student to BPSA Vice President
Craig's leadership philosophy of empowering others
Plans for his foundation year in split community and GP practice
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH CRAIG:
Linkedin: Craig Ndip
Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA) TODAY. You won’t regret it!
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com
In Episode 3 of The Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students, we meet third-year student, Hikmat Kazeem, who's rewriting what success looks like in pharmacy education. Like many pharmacy students, Hikmat's path wasn't straightforward. After COVID-era predicted grades affected her medical school applications, she reluctantly considered pharmacy - despite a less-than-inspiring work experience placement that involved nothing but shelf cleaning. Today, she's BPSA's Western Area Coordinator and proving that sometimes the most challenging beginnings lead to the most inspiring journeys.
This episode dives deep into the realities of pharmacy student life. Hikmat openly shares her experience with first-year exam failure, describing the raw emotions of staying in bed for three days and questioning her place in pharmacy. But it's what she did next that makes her story powerful - transforming that setback into motivation to ace her remaining seven exams.
Beyond academics, Hikmat's story is a masterclass in building a balanced student life. As the only hijabi player on her university netball team, she's breaking barriers and showing how sports can be crucial for mental health during intense study periods. Her adventures extend globally - from a marketing internship in Hong Kong to upcoming medical volunteering in India - proving that pharmacy education can be a launch pad for diverse experiences.
What sets this episode apart is Hikmat's refreshing perspective on the future. While many students feel pressured to have their entire career mapped out, she advocates for living in the present and exploring widely - whether that's earning a British Sign Language qualification or seeking international opportunities.
Her message is clear: your pharmacy journey doesn't need to fit a traditional mould.
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH HIKMAT:
Linkedin:@Hikmat Kazeem
Instagram: @HKazeem1x
Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA)TODAY. You won’t regret it!
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do:Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In Episode 2 of The Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students, I sit down with Sanjida Hossain, a fourth-year Kingston pharmacy student who is transforming how pharmacy students connect, support each other, and build lasting communities. As BPSA's Southern Area Coordinator and Kingston Pharmacy Society's Treasurer, she's living proof that you don't need to wait until graduation to make an impact.
In this raw and honest conversation, Sanjida opens up about waiting until third year to get involved ("I thought I wasn't interesting enough"), organising conferences that challenge gender health disparities, and building a pharmacy community that transcends borders. Whether you're feeling too shy to step up or wondering how to balance leadership with studies, this episode is your roadmap to finding your voice in pharmacy.
From practical time management hacks to candid conversations about taking breaks after qualifying, Sanjida shares the kind of advice you won't find in your pharmacy textbooks. Plus, discover why sometimes the best career plans are the ones that leave room for adventure.
Why This Episode Matters to Pharmacy Students:
The Journey to Pharmacy
Breaking cultural barriers as a Bangladeshi woman in healthcare
Why giving back drives her passion
Supporting women in pharmacy leadership
Leadership & Community Building
BPSA Southern Area Coordinator role breakdown
Managing the Southern Area Conference
How to approach speakers and build professional networks
Real Student Life Hacks
Practical time management strategies that actually work
Balancing multiple leadership roles with academics
Tips for staying organised in final year
Future Planning Gold
Why community pharmacy might be your perfect start
Creative ways to combine travel with pharmacy
The power of locum work for flexibility
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH SANJIDA:
Linkedin:Sanjida Hossain
Instagram: @sanjida_h123
Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA)TODAY. You won’t regret it!
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do:Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.
In this debut episode of The Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students Series, we sit down with Romoluwa ("Rommy") Akinnawonu, a remarkable third-year pharmacy student at Keele University who's making waves as BPSA's Engagement Officer.
Originally from Dublin and now based in East London, Rommy brings a fresh perspective to pharmacy education through her commitment to addressing health inequalities, particularly those affecting women and ethnic minorities. Her journey from a shy student to a confident leader epitomises the transformation possible when passion meets purpose. Through her role at BPSA, she's revolutionising how pharmacy students connect online, championing her "3Ps" motto - more pictures, more people, and more passion.
This episode explores her unique path through pharmacy school, from securing innovative internships in women's health and data science to balancing competitive cheerleading with academic excellence. Rommy shares candid insights about the evolving landscape of pharmacy education, the power of digital networking, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in healthcare.
Key Topics Covered:
Journey from Dublin to London and finding her voice
Discovering pharmacy and evolving interests through university years
Experience with hospital placements and prescribing curriculum
BPSA leadership role and digital engagement strategies
Internships in women's health and health data research
Time management and balancing multiple commitments
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:
This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:
Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice
Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡
Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️
Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience
Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building
If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉 HERE!
PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:
The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.
https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/
🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront Here
CONNECT WITH ROMMY:
Linkedin: Rommy Akinnawonu
Instagram: @rxmmy.ix
Tiktok: @rxmmmy
Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA) TODAY. You won’t regret it!
OTHER LINKS:
The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music
Follow me on My Website, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and/or Twitter. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.