What is the best approach at becoming a pharmacy intern (pre py1))

[UofK]

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I've researched this thoroughly over the past 6 months, and now that I finally have an acceptance letter from the school of my choice, I want to start knocking out my hourly requirements and perhaps build a relationship with a company that could potentially lead me to securing a job once I graduate.

I've found that my states requirements for a pharmacy internship license requires that I only provide an acceptance letter from an accredited college of pharmacy. I have that. My question is, once I have my internship license, what is the best approach to trying to find someone willing to become a preceptor?

Hopefully, in four years I see myself doing something other than retail pharmacy. I currently work in a small community hospital and a staff pharmacist I am working with has agreed to be a preceptor at that location. However, as a back up, I would like to work for a chain throughout school (also partially to supplement my income and learn a different side of the career because the hospital won't allow me to work anything less than an 8 hour day because it's only a 1 shift pharmacy 8-5 which means weekends only). I've read feedback on most of the chains pharmacies and have made a decision regarding which one I would prefer to work for. So, is the best approach to contact this chain's DM or should I simply walk into the pharmacy and ask to speak with the Pharmacy Manager? Or should I do something else? Any help is appreciated.

 

[30Percent]

Before pharmacy school you can call the DM, recruiters, apply online and in person.

Once you're in pharmacy school network with professors, other p1s and p2s to find potential jobs. Make sure you participate in your school's interview day as well.

 

[woosiecg]

I think a lot of this depends on the state where you attend school. In my state you can not work as a paid intern until after your first year. Most students find their internships through our career days where the chains and other companies come and interview interested students.
The job market has gotten fairly tight in regards to internships so as of right now not even half our class has paid internships. I know a few companies have still not notified so I am hoping that number increases but from what I understand if 50% of us get jobs we will be lucky.
I was lucky enough to receive an offer and I believe it had to do with my involvement within school (committees, organizations, etc.), having previous life/work experience (although not in pharmacy), and good references.

Good lucky with school!