What is a better, alternate career?

[nafcillin]

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I have pre pharm students who ask me if I would go into pharmacy again. I say "hell yes" and list the reasons I like it. However, not sure I would recommend it in its current state. I would want there to be a bit more stability and recovery from the economic slump.
Not here to discuss the future of pharmacy but rather, which health profession has the most promise now? I realize people actually have to have an interest in that field but I would like to help them but presenting other options that are better in terms of job opportunities. PA? Occupational therapy?

I want to modify my title but can't. I don't want to say pharmacy is a "bad" career choice

 

[zelman]

I'd go NP over PA. More opportunity for independent practice.

 

[Digsbe]

Medicine, PA, NP, or getting a Ph.D. and doing research would be viable career opportunities. It really depends on the student's personal interests. If they want to diagnose diseases with high pay and don't mind years of residency I would recommend medicine assuming that since they want to do 4 years in a PharmD program that they wouldn't mind doing 4 years in an MD/DO program.

If they don't want to do residency and are fine with making on average less than a pharmacist but still want to do something clinical being a PA or NP would be an alternative.

If someone loves pharmacology and research and isn't so much wanting to do clinical work recommending a Ph.D. may be best.

Like I said, I think it really depends on the student's personal interests.

 

[DrHerbmann]

Why not become a naturopath? Or maybe a homeopath? Of course if you really want to help people you will become an herbalist.

 

[Digsbe]

I think I'm beginning to smell an April fools joke

 

[Lubeckd]

Why not become a naturopath? Or maybe a homeopath? Of course if you really want to help people you will become an herbalist.

Points to my avatar: it's something I am interested in for the future. I was planning on taking a second CAM class, but it was too popular in my college and is all full. Wish I have a over ride 🙁.

 

[BelowTheMean]

If they don't want to do residency and are fine with making on average less than a pharmacist but still want to do something clinical being a PA or NP would be an alternative.

My cousin makes more than me as an NP. She does however work per diem once a week at another hospital but her yearly income is about 150k with OT/per diem. She says she can move to any location desirable and NPs are in pretty high demand. I'd so do it if I become jobless again for whatever reason.