Just a few questions.

[Z is for Zombie]

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I'm starting my first term of community college in September. I'm 21 and I have a two year old daughter. I'm just worried that it's too late since I won't be done with everything until I'm 29 and that's if I get done on time.
Also, I have a medical assisting certificate but I decided to change careers. Will that look bad?

 

[Digsbe]

Having a background as a medical assistant may help you if you can prove that you are committed to pharmacy. I would try to work as a pharmacy technician and explain why you chose to change professions in your personal statement when you eventually apply.

In my opinion starting things at age 21 is not too late. You also do not need to get a 4 year degree to attend many pharmacy schools so you may be done at 28 or even 27. It may be rough going through school with a child to care for but I have seen it done. More power to ya and best of luck!

 

[pharm B]

You're definitely not too late in the game to start. I went back to school at 26, and I'm by no means the oldest in my class in pharmacy school.

 

[a student]

Have you considered physician assistant? It is much shorter than pharmacy school and your medical assistant experience is perfect for it.

 

[NaOH]

I started at 30.


Make of that what you will.

 

[Pojman]

I am 31 now, and I just finished all of my requisite courses. If everything goes according to plan, I will be 35 when I finish pharmacy school.

That leaves a solid 25-30 years of work ahead of me. I think that is plenty to say that it is not too late.

You are 10 years younger than me. It is silly to think that you are too old. I also have 2 children.

 

[Kansas Pharmer]

I am an incoming P3 and getting ready to turn 39 before the end of the year. I also have a 3 y/o daughter and own 2 part time businesses.

I dont know you, so dont take this personally, but 21 is too old? I think that is an insult to a lot of us that are changing careers. Sounds like you need to get out in the world a little more if you are worried about starting your career before you even reach 30...

 

[gh0lee]

I am in no position to say the word of encouragement like the above comments since I am 23 going into pharmacy school.

But you are definitely not late, I've seen someone as old as in their 50's going into pharmacy school 👍

 

[Rouelle]

I am going into my P2 year at 33. One person in my class graduated high school before I was born. No biggie.

 

[Z is for Zombie]

Sorry if I offended anyone. That wasn't my intention. I just see a lot of people who are further than me. I'm a worrier. I just wanted to make sure that age didn't really matter when you do your interview. I know this is what I want to do and I will do anything to make it happen. I have a great support system, so childcare really isn't an issue.

 

[Pojman]

Sorry if I offended anyone. That wasn't my intention. I just see a lot of people who are further than me. I'm a worrier. I just wanted to make sure that age didn't really matter when you do your interview. I know this is what I want to do and I will do anything to make it happen. I have a great support system, so childcare really isn't an issue.

I think that a mature age is actually a good thing when it comes to an interview. An interviewer will take a mature individual, with practical real world experience, more seriously than a young individual right out of high school.

 

[Kansas Pharmer]

Sorry if I offended anyone. That wasn't my intention. I just see a lot of people who are further than me. I'm a worrier. I just wanted to make sure that age didn't really matter when you do your interview. I know this is what I want to do and I will do anything to make it happen. I have a great support system, so childcare really isn't an issue.

I wouldnt worry about what age you look when you get to the interview; its all in how you present yourself. Go in with a strong app, show that you are knowledgeable and years spent on this earth are irrelevant.

Currently at my school, there is a 60-something previous nurse attending school with her 30ish daughter. Age is just a number...

Just do your best and I am sure you will be fine. If I got in at almost 40 without previous pharm work, I am sure most people can do it if they want.

 

[Guitarmacy]

Sorry if I offended anyone. That wasn't my intention. I just see a lot of people who are further than me. I'm a worrier. I just wanted to make sure that age didn't really matter when you do your interview. I know this is what I want to do and I will do anything to make it happen. I have a great support system, so childcare really isn't an issue.

I'm 25, just became a father, and I'm applying to pharmacy school next year. We're basically in the same boat but I'll finish around 31 or 32. There's nothing to worry about age-wise. I'd say the biggest worry we both have is finding time to watch our kids grow up! 🙂

 

[Krnluve24]

I'm 34 with two kids and entering p1 in less than a month...it's never too old to have a dream and a plan.

 

[Weakerthan]

I would never let age be a barrier or restraint for the things you want to do. If you are just beginning your first semester then I think it's quite possible that you will finish earlier than 29. That said, 29 in it of itself is not old at all. My friend started the program at 28 and there were/are multiple people in my class above 40.