Journal Assignment 2.doc

Jennifer Kmetich October 12, 2009 Pharmacy 100 Mary Higginbotham Journal Assignment 2 When I was young, I had a general, yet passionate, dream of becoming a scientist. One Christmas, my parents even bought me a play chemistry set to perform experiments with. I loved to learn, and even at that age, I felt that a ?smart job? set the standards for a respectable job. Naturally, over the years, my aspirations wavered, and I began considering other options. In high school, my interest for science continued steadily until it peaked in my junior year in the midst of chemistry. I felt so connected to what was going on around me, and I valued understanding the composition of my surroundings. I began to search for a career that would accommodate chemistry as well as my desire to help others. In addition, I knew that I wanted to get involved in the medical field, but I wouldn?t be able to handle anything too gory. As a result of many hours of soul-searching, I decided that I wished to pursue pharmacy. The other day I had a breakthrough. My friends and I were actually discussing medications (contraceptives, pain relievers, etc.), and I realized that I really do not like taking medication ? whether it is illegal, over-the-counter, or even a supplement ? unless it is necessary. However, when exploring this notion a little further, I begin to understand that my phobia might be the real reason why I am interested in pharmacy. I feel that I am often intrigued with drugs and the effects that different substances, both natural and synthetic, can have on a person. I believe that The Ohio State University?s College of Pharmacy is going to give me the opportunity to really challenge myself to see how committed I can be to something that I really enjoy doing. I know that many who pursue pharmacy do not make it through; not necessarily because they are not good enough, but maybe because there were just a few others that showed more potential. It is going to take a lot effort to make it through this program, but I feel as though my drive and passion for pharmacy will help me to make it through. I believe that one of the best ways to make a lasting impression is to show everyone your initiative and how involved you are willing to be in something. Therefore, I would really be interested in early research opportunities and study abroad programs in order to expose myself more openly to this profession, especially within the retail realm of pharmacy. I plan to join the Pre-Pharmacy Club and the Student National Pharmaceutical Association, and I am also looking for Pharmacy Technician positions or internships. I understand that after four years of undergraduate school and four years of graduate school, I will have changed both personally and professionally. I would like to think that it will change me for the better by really making everything I do more respectable with a very experienced and developed feel. I also hope to better understand the way the body works, to be very detail-oriented, and to be driven toward my goals. I believe that pharmacy is the best option for me, and I am looking forward to get more involved in this field.