Decided On Pharmacy, But Have A Few Questions

[Chemacist]

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Hi, I'm obviously new to the forums, but I've been lurking for a while. I decided on becoming a pharmacist over the past year and it's actually not because of the money.

I've always have been interested in science and chemistry. I'm also very interested in holistic medicine. So, after searching the forums, one question I have is:

How common are holistic pharmacists? I would love to learn both sides of pharmacy (the natural/compounding and then the manufactured/artificial,) so what are the chances that I'll get the chance and have a future in both?

Also, I've been reading that the main complaint is that these Pre-Pharm students aren't taking the chance to really learn what it's like in a pharmacy. I would love too. And I've been working on my cover letter and resume to send out to all the pharmacies around my area.

In the letter it explains how I'm currently pregnant and won't have my son until early Nov., but I would like to seek active employment in December and that I'm going to start taking Pre-Pharm in January. So my second question:

I got fired from my last job because I was late by 5 minutes. I was told to get a positive reference from my old Asst. Manager (who was just promoted to Manager,) because she loved the hell out of me and include it with the resume. But how do I explain being fired? Or do I just not mention it?

Finally, before I start school in January, I was thinking about majoring in Chemistry. Just in case, ya know, things don't work out. So until then, what subjects should I brush up on? Bio Chem I heard can be easy/hard. Luckily, I have a friend who is in love with the subject.

 

[Parklife]

You like science but you like holistic medicine?

 

[pharm B]

I've always have been interested in science and chemistry. I'm also very interested in holistic medicine. So, after searching the forums, one question I have is:

How common are holistic pharmacists? I would love to learn both sides of pharmacy (the natural/compounding and then the manufactured/artificial,) so what are the chances that I'll get the chance and have a future in both?

Independent pharmacies tend to do a better job of treating the "whole" patient than most big box retail chains do. Our local independent does compounding and delivery, but they also offer multiple nutrition classes for their patients, and they spend a good deal of time counseling on every med. I could see that as being a good venue for using your holistic knowledge while also providing the normal pharmacy services.

I won't pass judgment on the validity of holistic treatments, but I'm sure you already know to have thick skin. 😉

I got fired from my last job because I was late by 5 minutes. I was told to get a positive reference from my old Asst. Manager (who was just promoted to Manager,) because she loved the hell out of me and include it with the resume. But how do I explain being fired? Or do I just not mention it?

I would just make sure you list that positive reference, and ask her to be sure she sings your praises. You were actually terminated, and not given the option of resigning?

Finally, before I start school in January, I was thinking about majoring in Chemistry. Just in case, ya know, things don't work out. So until then, what subjects should I brush up on? Bio Chem I heard can be easy/hard. Luckily, I have a friend who is in love with the subject.

Just in case? What is your potential fall-back with a BS in Chemistry? I would plan on completing my pre-reqs while also on a path to a legitimate career if you don't feel confident you'll get into pharmacy school.