With schools ramping up for the fall semester, it does not go unnoticed that pharmacy student applications have declined and the number of students graduating from pharmacy school has decreased by almost 10%.
As members of their communities, independent pharmacists can encourage local students to pursue a career in pharmacy. Parents and teachers start asking students in kindergarten what they want their careers to be when they grow up. How cool would it be if some answered, “pharmacist”?
There are many ways to inspire students at all levels in your community and spark their curiosity about becoming pharmacists.
- Attend Career Based Events at Local Schools
Many elementary schools have Career Day when individuals from the community share their profession with students in the classroom. Sometimes, it includes fun activities related to the career. Career Days would be a great way to kickstart students’ interest in pharmacy and allow you to be creative (and step outside your store for the day)!
High schools and community colleges host job and internship fairs each semester. If you need help around your store, this is an excellent opportunity for students to get hands-on experience and see what a career as an independent pharmacist might look like.
- Be Social
Online or social media presence will help you connect with current pharmacy student programs. The younger generations utilize social media and web searches as forms of credibility. Seeing that your independent pharmacy is active online can inspire them with just a few clicks!
Current pharmacy students are eager to gain experience and are most likely interested in learning about what to expect in your role. When job or internship opportunities are shared online, students are more likely to apply or reach out to learn more.
Connecting with teachers at the schools or in the programs can also be a great way to learn about different events or students who may be looking for internships.
- Be Involved in Community Gatherings
Getting your name out there in your community is a great way to showcase your career to the young people in your area. The more the community sees your store’s name/logo, the more they will remember you exist.
Sponsoring a little league team, a community dinner, or a school dance are great ways to share your name with others. Another way to get involved could include offering a scholarship to local high school students, which you can present to them, and speak briefly about your pharmacy to families and friends of your community.
EPIC Rx encourages our member pharmacies to recommend current pharmacy students for our student grant program. Our student grant program assists current pharmacy students on their journey to becoming an independent pharmacist.
By building connections with students in your community, you can help them reach their goals by providing them with hands-on experience and sharing information about academic opportunities.
- Showcase Your Storefront
When students enter your store, they should feel welcome. Consider including items for students like fun printed band aids, cool school supplies, toys, books or magazines, or a candy aisle. Students will grow up and make memories in your store with items they are interested in.
Be sure to include information that students may be interested in near the counter so it can be easily spotted when their family is picking up prescriptions or check out. For EPIC Rx members, this would be a great spot to advertise the EPIC Rx student grant program or that you are offering an internship over the next school break.
–
Your independent pharmacy can reach the next generation of independent pharmacists with EPIC Rx. We offer a select vendor program for buying group members, legislative representation, complimentary NCPA membership,, and other benefits. You inspire so many people as an independent pharmacist, and we hope to help you continue to do so.
Interested in how EPIC Rx can help you continue to inspire your community? Contact us today!