Early acceptance =

STRESS!

Along the course of my undergraduate years, my major changed from engineering to pharmacy/medical school. Despite some uncertainties, I knew that I wanted a career in science. Our reason for choosing pharmacy may not be the same, but I suspect that the majority of us wanted to make a difference in patients' lives and earn a modest living doing so.

Indeed, the practice of pharmacy has become more attractive and the wealth of information that accompanies the responsibilities of the pharmacist are growing more complex. Having researched the career quite a bit, I've come to understand that its academic rigors require the utmost dedication to do well.

I worked hard in school (while I held a job) precisely to get my foot in the door. After a few interviews, I knew where I was headed for pharmacy school. However, an early acceptance, while a relief, has afforded me time to ponder my 'vulnerabilities' about the 4-year pharmacy curriculum. In short, I'm scared up to my eyeballs!

Perhaps, sensing this pressure, a dear SDN'er writes:

Am I academically capable as my brilliant future classmates? When I wear the white coat, will I be competent enough? Should the title Pharmacist be bestowed upon me?

After reading SOBEGEKKO'S reply (to a different question), I realize that I am indeed an accepted pharmacy student because I was competitive. I spent years jockeying for a pharmacy position, my teachers wrote stellar letters of reference on my behalf; failing is not an option. And now that I'm in, there's no looking back! I realize this may be short-lived once the avalanche of exams and deadlines start pouring in. But, I have no choice but to go on... to become a clinical pharmacist.