Advice for applying/pharmcas

[JDmzme91]

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I finished a Biochem degree in 2015 G.P.A 3.0. I had a lot of medical issues, family, and financial issues so my gpa isn't fantastic. Plus, i did a ton of research. I just decided to become a pharmacist because I have a job as a pharm tech and I can't deal with the low pay and lack of respect. I also feel I have greater potential and my Biochem degree is basically a waste if I don't go.

The issue is I have 2 general letters written that are saved on interfolio, from my best letter writers, and I can't use them because pharm schools use pharmcas along with a questionnaire. My letters are from 2014/2015 there's no way I'm going to bug my old professors and make them submit materials for me years later. They are very busy and I already bothered them both many times. I can't ask my current boss we share a mutual dislike for eachother and I haven't been working there long anyway.

Suggestions?

By the way --I'm also broke (a paycheck away from homeless) no family support, and have an undiagnosed medical condition.

 

[Ladyg228]

The lack of respect won't change much if thats your reasoning for going into pharmacy. Have you looked into industry since you want to utilize your biochem degree? Since you mention your GPA isn't fantastic, I might assume you have re-taken classes? If so, you should calculate your GPA the way PharmCAS does it to know where you stand. If your still at a 3.0 cGPA/sGPA then i wouldn't worry about it as much, given that you do well on PCAT and is a well-rounded applicant (i.e pharmacy experience, volunteering activity, good pharmacy knowledge etc)

As for your LORs, if you were in a research lab then definitely have your PI write one even if its years later. The professors you can try to set up an appointment in person and see if they will help you with this. If not, then volunteer somewhere (i.e hospital, pharmacy etc) Im guessing you will be applying for pharmcas fall 2016 so you still have adequate time to get these things done.

But one thing to point out is that some schools require a letter from a pharmacist, if you work for a chain and have the opportunity to float, do that! If its your RXM you don't get along with, try asking the staff pharmacist. If you only work with one, maybe a senior tech or again float at another store to meet other pharmacist who will help you.

 

[TimmytranRX]

In the end, it's all worth it. Becoming a pharmacist is the goal