Keeping your balance as a student of pharmacy

What I Have Learnt About Staying Mentally, Physically And Emotionally Healthy

As anybody studying for a professional qualification can attest, it’s an extremely stressful time and keeping your mental and physical balance while doing life and studying at the same time is really challenging.

I’m studying to become an aspiring pharmacist and having just been through the exam period, I can tell you the challenge is real. However, I’ve learnt that there are a few things you can do to make things as easy on yourself as possible.

I’ve incorporated a few things into my life since I started my studies. I learned some really valuable lessons along the way and I’m sharing what I’ve learnt here, to help other students maintain their sanity under pressure.

Manage your time effectively

Pharmacy studies can be demanding, with a lot of coursework, assignments and exams. To succeed, you need to manage your time effectively. Create a schedule that allows you to balance your academic work, extracurricular activities and personal life. Prioritise your tasks and avoid procrastination.

Stay organised

Keep track of your coursework, assignments and exams. Use a planner or a digital tool to organise your schedule and make sure you meet deadlines. Keeping your notes and study materials organised will help you stay on top of your coursework.

Build strong relationships with your professors

Your professors can be a valuable resource in pharmacy school. Attend office hours, ask questions and seek guidance from your professors. Building a good relationship with them can help you succeed in your coursework and in your career.

Get involved in extracurricular activities

Joining a pharmacy student organisation like NAPSA or your local university pharmacy branch and getting involved in research can help you develop your skills, network with other students and professionals, and enhance your resume.

Take care of your mental and physical health

Pharmacy can be stressful so it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and practice stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga.

Seek mentorship

Find a mentor, either within your pharmacy program or in the professional field. A mentor can provide guidance, advice and support as you navigate pharmacy school and your future career.

Stay up to date with industry news and trends

Pharmacy is a constantly evolving field so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest news and trends. Subscribe to industry publications like ITK, attend conferences and follow NAPSA’s social media accounts to stay informed. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of the industry and prepare you for your future career.