Working During Pharmacy School
Identify 3 benefits of working while in graduate school.
I know that the advice to “find a job” while in graduate school is probably the last thing you want to hear right now. But I’m going to tell you anyway: it’s possible, and it can be helpful if done right. When I was in pharmacy school I had 3 jobs over the course of four years.
Working while in grad school can help you develop skills, increase your resume or curriculum vitae, and boost your confidence. However, there are some important things to consider before taking the plunge into employment while pursuing your degree. In this article, we’ll discuss when it makes sense to find a job while attending classes full-time—and how you can make sure it’s worth it once you do!
When to Work
There are a few different ways to approach the issue of working while in grad school. The most obvious is not working at all during your class times, but that might not be possible for everyone. If you do decide to take on a part-time job during your studies, consider these factors:
- What kind of student are you? Some people just can’t focus when they’re also working; others thrive on multiple tasks at once. Figure out which type of person you are and avoid scheduling any work hours or meetings within the same time slot as class.
- How important is money? For some students, it’s crucial that they have enough cash flow coming in every month to cover their living expenses. Either way, though—if taking on extra jobs helps pay for what matters most to you about being in grad school then go for it!
How to Find a Job
To find jobs that are related to your field and/or interests, do some research on the type of work you want to do. Then look for openings at places that resonate with what you’ve learned about working in the industry and if possible try to arrange interviews before leaving school so that when graduation rolls around, all systems are a go!
Understand the importance of “networking” which is really valuable when it comes time for job searching. In short, networking means connecting with other professionals from whom one hopes will provide advice or mentorship. For example: If there was a professor whose expertise matched some aspect of my graduate studies then I would certainly try reaching out via email asking if they had any research opportunities available.
Also, be open minded. I held 3 jobs during pharmacy school. I worked in a prison as a control room operator, Walmart Pharmacy as a pharmacist intern, and as a graduate researcher for one of my professor’s Diabetes Clinic. Working at the prison in the control room allowed me to study and get homework done while at work. As a pharmacist intern I was able to passively study while working with patients and learn drugs. As the graduate research assistant, I was able to build my counseling skills and confidence while working with patients in the clinic. Remember school comes first so find ways to implement study either actively or passively at all times!
Important Things to Consider
- How much you can earn.
- How much time you can spend away from studying. Build a study schedule.
- How much flexibility you need, in terms of when and where your work will take place.
How to Make the Most of Working While in Grad School
You are in the midst of an amazing experience. Graduate school is a great time to build your professional skills and also gain valuable work experience. It’s important to make the most of your time at this stage in your career, so here are some tips on how you can do that:
- Make sure you’re getting the most out of your education by going above and beyond what is required of you or expected.
- Make sure you tap into your new network. For example, I would invite coworkers from my job to participate in Health Fair events at my school.
- Make sure you’re getting the most out of your experience by making connections with other students, professors, coworkers, and alumni who may be able to help advance your career later down the road.
- Make sure you’re getting the most out of every job opportunity presented to you so that when it comes time for interviews employers know what kind of person they would be hiring if they chose YOU!
Be strategic about finding a job
While you are preparing for your PharmD., working while in grad school is possible. However, it can also be challenging—there are a lot of demands on your time and energy that come with being a student and working. Having a strategic mindset about finding a job and making the most of your time will help you succeed.
Working during school offers many benefits:
- Build your professional network.
- Find out what you actually like.
- Have money for upcoming expenses, like Mid-Year or graduation.
