MARCOM_logo_full-color

How to Write a Compelling Pharmacy School Personal Statement

Written by Kelly Jeroski

July 12, 2022

How to Write a Compelling Personal Statement for Pharmacy School

If you’re applying to any higher education program, you’re most likely going to run into something called a “personal statement”. Pharmacy school is no exception, and learning how to write a compelling and unique personal statement is a key part in getting accepted to school. Read on to find out how to write one that stands out! 

What is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement serves as a way to highlight your skills, interests and experiences. Personal statements tend to be somewhat autobiographical, but it is not just a lengthy personal essay of your entire life story. 

Personal statements are also not a regurgitation of all the information you’ve already included in your application and cover letter. Think of your personal statement as more of a narrative, but still keep it informative. 

In writing a personal statement, you’re aiming to give the school or program you’re applying for a snapshot of who you are and why you want to be considered for whatever position. They are as much about how you write as what you write. Schools will receive hundreds of personal statements– make sure yours stands out!  

What is the Difference Between a Personal Statement and a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter generally serves as a means to sell yourself to a company or school. It introduces your resume and all your relevant school and employment history. A personal statement, however, is meant to be more creative and introduce the school to you as a person in an engaging format. 

While an application can come off as just a list of what you’ve done, a personal statement frames all your accomplishments in a way that connects your real-life influences with the dates and degrees on your application. 

What is the Best Format for a Personal Statement for Pharmacy School?

Think of your personal statement as a narrative essay outlining how you got to where you are today, as well as where you want to go next. Within this story, relate back to pharmaceuticals and medicine and healthcare fields in an organic way. You’ve chosen this path for a reason, what are the steps that got you here? 

What Questions Should I Answer in my Personal Statement? 

Some helpful questions to aim to answer throughout your personal statement are:

✅ Why do I want to be a Pharmacist?: Think through the times where you have admired pharmaceuticals or where they have most impacted you. Or, think about when you fell in love with medicine and helped people through pharmaceuticals.

✅ What different pharmaceutical paths would I be interested in pursuing?: Are you interested in nuclear pharmacy? What about private pharmaceutical production? If you have a specific niche in mind for a career path, use this space to talk about your interest.

✅ What makes me an excellent and unique candidate for this program?: Have you taken any specialized courses that make you uniquely qualified for this program? Have you had any outstanding internships or positions within the healthcare world?

✅ What are my strengths?: Where do you excel? What specific strengths could you bring to the program and the team you work with? Use this space to highlight your gifts.

✅ Are there any gaps or inadequacies in my application? How can I explain them here?: If you have anything on your application that may confuse someone not familiar with your life circumstances, try to concisely explain it here. Admissions counselors want to be able to give you the best shot possible at being accepted, and sometimes this requires you being up-front about gaps or missing pieces to your work history. 

What Should I Avoid in My Personal Statement? 

❌ Don’t just repeat what you’ve said in your application. There’s a place for a more sterile, list-based amalgamation of your achievements, but your personal statement is not this place. Admissions staff will learn a lot more about you if you’re creative with your personal statement.

❌ Don’t steal someone else’s work. Plagiarism will disqualify you from admission to pharmacy programs, and it’s also just bad practice for life in general.

❌ Avoid cliches throughout your writing. It may have been a dark and stormy night when you were born, but that is neither relevant nor original. Find fresh ways to tell your story and engage your readers.

❌ Avoid grammar and spelling mistakes. These can be avoided through several rounds of revision

What Are Admissions Counselors Looking for in a Personal Statement? 

What makes a good candidate may vary from program to program, but there are some general things that admissions counselors look for when reviewing personal statements from applicants:

  • How have you grown over the years?
  • Is your personal statement well-written? Does it show care, consideration and edits?
  • Are you up for the challenge of Pharmacy school?
  • Do you fit our program? 

What Are the Steps to Form a Compelling Personal Statement?

The creative process for a piece like this may vary form applicant to applicant, but the general steps are as follows

1. Brainstorm

This step can be messy, and is generally the most customizable of the process. To start your brainstorming process, think about all the reasons you’re considering pharmacy school and why this program should consider you. This is also a good place to start thinking about what makes you stand out from other candidates, as well as beginning to organize your education and work history. 

Since personal statements are more narrative than list-based, start to think about how pharmacists have influenced your life and family. Compelling stories from your own experiences will help admissions counselors see you have a full-bodied connection to the program and career field.  

As part of your brainstorming, look at successful personal statements. Websites like Studential and ApplyToUni can give you a good idea of what spelled success for past applicants. Or, if you know anyone who went to pharmacy school already, you can ask them for their best tips. 

2. Outline and Draft

How do you make sense of all the information you just brainstormed out? One of the best ways to sort through your thoughts is by looking for natural connections between events in your life. Be sure to highlight the aspects of your career and schooling that will make you stand out the most. 

Make sure you’re outlining your statement in a way that makes the most sense for both your story and your reader. Linear outlines with clear progressions through your life story usually work best, but that’s not to say you can’t jump around in the story a bit, especially if pharmacology has played a lot of different roles throughout your life and you’re looking to highlight its effect on you over time. 

There are different types of personal statements, generally prompted or unprompted, but they all tend to be between 400-1,000 words long. 

Check your personal statement for basic grammatical and spelling mistakes, as well as making sure your tone is both professional and friendly. Make sure your organization makes sense. A good way to ensure this is to have someone else read it and suggest edits. The more sets of eyes you can have on your personal statement, the better chance you’ll have of submitting a flawless piece. 

Running your personal statement through a program like Grammarly or Hemingway is another good way to weed out mistakes and make sure your statement is clear.

4. Final Revisions and Submission

Do some final checks of your personal statement. Try to read it as if you’re reading it for the first time, with no context as to your own story. An early start in the writing and drafting process is key for this step, so you can take a few days away from your statement before this final revision if necessary. 

If your personal statement was one with a prompt, use this check to be sure you have answered all the questions as fully and uniquely as possible. This is another great place to ask for a second set of eyes to review your statement. 

Finally, submit your personal statement with your application to pharmacy school. Be sure that you’ve submitted it before the deadline! 

How Do I Close a Personal Statement?

In closing your personal statement, include one last push for yourself and why you’re a good fit for the program. Try to naturally conclude and wrap up all that you’ve said about yourself and your story. Be sure to highlight your interest in the program specifically and give a quick “thank you” for their consideration of your application. 

What Now?  

Now that you know how to write a great personal statement for pharmacy school, you should narrow down the schools you want to apply to. If you haven’t already, consider NEOMED’s College of Pharmacy ! Our program will prepare you to make an impact on those around you for the better, whether locally or globally. Graduates from our programs boast high NAPLEX test scores, excellent network connections and a deeper understanding of the communities they serve. Apply to NEOMED ! 

Want to learn more about pharmacy school at NEOMED? Our pharmacy program guide will help you determine if pharmacy school is the right path for you, and how NEOMED can help you begin your future.

Program-eBook-Cover-1-1

Access our eBook "Begin Your Future in Pharmacy at NEOMED" to learn more about what it takes to become a pharmacist.

Download the Guide

About the author

Kelly jeroski.

Assistant Director of Admission

More Articles

Should you become a pharmacist, 4 tips for your pharmacy school interview, student spotlight: samira yasmeen.

loader-wheel

  • UCAS Guide >
  • Pharmacy Advice

Writing the Perfect Pharmacy Personal Statement: Expert Tips

Smiling pharmacist mixing medicine expertly.

Crafting the perfect pharmacy personal statement can be a nerve-wracking endeavour. With the high stakes and fierce competition, how do you make your application stand out ?

In this blog, we’ve gathered expert tips to transform your personal statement from average to outstanding. Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or find writing daunting, our practical advice will steer you in the right direction. 

Let’s dive in and unlock the doors to your dream pharmacy school!

How to Write a Pharmacy School Personal Statement

Candidate crafting a compelling Pharmacy Personal Statement.

Crafting a compelling pharmacy school personal statement is crucial to making a lasting impression on the admissions committee . Your personal statement is a powerful tool to showcase your passion for pharmacy and demonstrate how your background and achievements align with this career path. 

To help you create an outstanding personal statement that sets you apart from other applicants, follow these essential steps :

1. Research and Understand the Requirements

Before you begin writing, thoroughly research the pharmacy schools you’re applying to and understand their specific requirements for personal statements. While some schools may provide prompts, others may allow more flexibility in your topic choice. Take note of any word limits or formatting guidelines to tailor your statement accordingly.

2. Showcase Your Genuine Interest in Pharmacy

Start your personal statement by showcasing your authentic passion for pharmacy. Explain why you want to become a pharmacist and how this career aligns with your personal goals and values. Share a significant experience or moment that ignited your interest in pharmacy, and highlight how helping people and making a positive impact drives your ambition.

3. Highlight Relevant Experiences and Achievements

Pharmacy schools value applicants with diverse experiences and achievements that reflect their readiness for this profession. Identify experiences, such as volunteer work, internships, or relevant coursework, that have prepared you for success in pharmacy. Describe how these experiences have shaped your skills and character, making you a well-rounded candidate .

4. Demonstrate Qualities of a Successful Pharmacist

Showcasing the qualities of an excellent pharmacist is crucial in your personal statement. Discuss the attributes you admire in pharmacists, such as empathy, problem-solving abilities, or effective communication skills. Substantiate your claims by providing concrete examples from your academic achievements or work experiences that exemplify these qualities.

5. Emphasise Your Uniqueness

Stand out by highlighting your unique strengths, qualities, or experiences . If you have real-life experience in the healthcare industry or have volunteered in relevant settings, share these aspects to demonstrate your commitment to pharmacy and your understanding of the field.

6. Address Any Weaknesses Proactively

If your application has any weaknesses, such as low grades , consider addressing them proactively in your personal statement. However, avoid making excuses and instead focus on how you have learned from these challenges and how they have shaped your determination to succeed.

7. Structure Your Personal Statement Effectively

A well-structured personal statement is easier to read and leaves a lasting impact. Organise your statement into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should address specific points or themes coherently. Begin with a compelling opening that captures the reader’s attention and maintains their interest.

8. Craft a Strong Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph is your chance to make a strong first impression . Consider starting with an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or a captivating question that hooks the reader. This will set the tone for the rest of your personal statement and encourage the admissions committee to continue reading with enthusiasm.

9. Show, Don’t Tell

Avoid vague statements and use descriptive language and vivid examples to illustrate your qualities and experiences. Show the admissions committee how your skills and attributes have manifested in real-life situations , reinforcing your suitability for pharmacy school.

10. Seek Feedback and Revise

After completing your first draft, seek feedback from trusted individuals, such as teachers, mentors, or peers. Accept constructive criticism and make necessary revisions to refine your personal statement further. Multiple rounds of proofreading and editing will ensure your statement is error-free and communicates your message effectively.

online tutoring

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Pharmacy Personal Statements

White sheet with common mistakes written on it.

Writing a pharmacy personal statement can be challenging, but avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve its impact on the admissions committee. Your personal statement reflects your passion for pharmacy and your suitability for the profession. 

To help you create a compelling and polished personal statement , let’s explore some common errors to avoid and essential proofreading and editing tips to ensure a stellar final draft.

Generic Statements:

One of the most common mistakes applicants make is using generic or clichéd statements that lack originality. Avoid using overused phrases and anecdotes that do not truly represent your experiences and motivations.

Lack of Focus: 

Your personal statement should clearly focus on pharmacy and why you are passionate about pursuing this profession. Avoid including unrelated experiences or irrelevant details that may distract from your main message.

Exaggeration and Overconfidence: 

While it is essential to highlight your strengths and achievements, avoid exaggerating or appearing overly confident . Be honest and genuine about your experiences and abilities.

Grammatical Errors and Typos: 

Spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and typos can create a negative impression on the reader. Proofread your personal statement thoroughly to eliminate any such errors.

Long and Unstructured Paragraphs: 

Lengthy, unstructured paragraphs can make your personal statement difficult to read. Aim for concise and well-organised content to keep the reader engaged.

Focusing Solely on Academics: 

While academic achievements are crucial, a pharmacy personal statement should also emphasise your personal qualities, motivation, and relevant experiences that align with the profession.

Final Takeaways

Mastering the perfect pharmacy personal statement is vital for securing your dream program . Our expert tips will help you create a captivating, error-free statement highlighting your passion for pharmacy. Tailor it to each school, showcase your future goals, and stay authentic. 

A well-crafted personal statement can set you apart from other applicants. Follow the guidance this Medic Mind blog provides, and best of luck on your journey to pharmacy success!

Pharmacy online tutoring

→ Q: Should I include my academic achievements even if they are not directly related to pharmacy?

A: Yes, including relevant academic achievements can showcase your dedication and discipline. However, focus on highlighting experiences that demonstrate your passion for pharmacy.

→ Q: How long should my pharmacy personal statement be?

A: Aim for a concise statement, ideally one to two pages. Ensure it includes all essential information while keeping the reader engaged.

→ Q: Is it necessary to mention extracurricular activities in my personal statement?

A: Including extracurricular activities can show a well-rounded personality. Highlight experiences that demonstrate your leadership, teamwork, and commitment to service.

→ Q: Can I address any weaknesses or gaps in my academic history in the personal statement?

A: Yes, you can briefly address any weaknesses or gaps, but focus on how you have learned from those experiences and how you plan to overcome them in your pharmacy journey.

Was this article helpful?

Still got a question leave a comment, leave a comment, cancel reply, what are you looking for , let's get acquainted what is your name, nice to meet you, {{name}} what is your preferred e-mail address, nice to meet you, {{name}} what is your preferred phone number, what is your preferred phone number, just to check, what are you interested in, when should we call you, what time works best for you (uk time), how many hours of 1-1 tutoring are you looking for, my whatsapp number is..., for our safeguarding policy, please confirm....

Please provide the mobile number of a guardian/parent

Which online course are you interested in?

What is your query, you can apply for a bursary by clicking this link, sure, what is your query, thank you for your response. we will aim to get back to you within 12-24 hours., lock in a 2 hour 1-1 tutoring lesson now.

If you're ready and keen to get started click the button below to book your first 2 hour 1-1 tutoring lesson with us. Connect with a tutor from a university of your choice in minutes. (Use FAST5 to get 5% Off!)

  • Advertise With Us

Pharmapproach.com

  • Pharmaceutical Technology
  • Clinical Pharmacy
  • Pharmaceutical Microbiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmaceutics
  • Pharmacy Management
  • Pharma Companies
  • Pharmaceutical Machines
  • Questions and Answers
  • PHARMA MARKETPLACE
  • Pharma Marketplace

Tips for Writing a Pharmacy School Personal Statement

Like in any other field of education, a pharmacy statement is a way of selling yourself to the admission tutors by showing them why you are a great pharmacy candidate. A personal statement is an opportunity to detail your skills, strengths, and career objectives in pharmacy. A personal pharmacy statement allows you a maximum of 4000 characters. It would be best to discuss why you are interested in pursuing a pharmacy degree in as few words as possible while ensuring you stand out from the crowd of prospective students. 

  • 1 Why is a personal statement important?
  • 2 What makes a good personal statement?
  • 3 Common mistakes to avoid
  • 4 What to include in your statement 
  • 5.1 1. Preparation
  • 5.2 2. Proper grammar
  • 5.3 3. Proper structure
  • 5.4 4. Connect with your reader
  • 5.5 5. Include only Pharmacy relevant achievements
  • 5.6 6. Avoid plagiarism
  • 5.7 7. Avoid controversial topics
  • 5.8 8. Proofread your work

Why is a personal statement important?

Statistics show that at least 50% of pharmacy school applications get rejected. These applications are not always denied because of poor scores. These students typically have scored just as good as their accepted counterparts. A personal statement is essential because it is what makes or breaks your application. This is because admission tutors are keen to welcome candidates who are genuinely passionate about and dedicated to the profession. 

What makes a good personal statement?

An excellent personal statement uses evidence. Support all your claims. It would be best if you remembered that the admission tutors already know you are trying to convince them that you are a suitable match, as are all the contenders. Sure, you can go on and on about how willing you are to learn, but it would be more effective if you backed such claims with real-life examples. 

Please use a personal statement writer service to get professional custom help in writing a good pharmacy personal statement. As a matter of fact, CustomWritings is considered to be one of the most reliable services on the market currently.

Common mistakes to avoid

It is important to remember that the perfect pharmacy personal statement does not have to follow a specific format. Remember that the admission tutors will only review your pharmacy statement for 10-30 minutes, no matter how much time you spend on it. This is not to say that you should rush through it but focus on capturing and maintaining the tutors’ interests. The tutors will review your statement from different angles, meaning you cannot afford to leave room for misinterpretation. 

Please resist the urge to follow a predetermined formula you acquired online or from your friends, regardless of how they scored on it. You may easily be tempted to borrow ideas from successful pharmacy students, but this will compromise your authenticity. The admissions tutors have likely seen numerous personal statements so do not embarrass yourself by submitting a copied statement. Besides, you want to show how passionate you are about pharmacy, don’t you?

Read Also: How to Become a Chemistry Problem Solver

What to include in your statement 

  • Pick a specific pharmacy area you are most interested in and explain why you are interested in that area. Show that you are passionate about that subject (it helps if you are passionate about the area you choose to write about). 
  • Highlight your motivations for studying pharmacy. When did you realize you wanted to pursue pharmacy? Why? Are you able to support this with evidence from your life?
  • Describe your hobbies and extracurricular activities (especially if they are related to pharmacy). The goal is to highlight the skills you have gained from these activities and how they will benefit you in your studies as a pharmacist. 
  • Include any work experience placements in related fields such as nursing or medicine. Talk about what you learned from these experiences. 
  • Talk about your traits and qualities that you feel make you a good pharmacy student. 
  • Please demonstrate that you are a good reader by talking about recent related reads and how they have shaped your thinking. Feel free to respectfully share any views and opinions, always remembering to support them with solid evidence. 

How to Write a Good Pharmacy School Personal Statement

Below are a few tips to make sure your statement makes your application stand out and increase your chances of getting accepted into your program of choice:

1. Preparation

Preparation is key. Start early so that you do not end up rushing and producing a mediocre statement. Start planning early as you don’t want to be pressed for time.

2. Proper grammar

Use proper grammar and punctuation. Poor grammar makes for a wrong first impression. Polish your basics on grammar and avoid submitting a statement riddled with error.

3. Proper structure

Structure your statement correctly. Ensure the first statement captures your reader’s attention and then has a few supporting paragraphs. You have a tiny window of grabbing your reader’s attention, so use it wisely. Finally, have a conclusion that ties it all together. 

4. Connect with your reader

Connect with your reader, even if it means sharing a few personal stories. The goal here is to make sure you communicate who you are. A personal statement is a monologue to the admission committee, and if they can connect with you, they will like you.

Show the admission tutors that you are aware of the challenges that await you and that you are committed regardless. Talk about how rewarding you think this path will be for you, your family, your community, your patients, and the pharmacy practice itself. 

5. Include only Pharmacy relevant achievements

If you have lofty achievements outside the pharmaceutical field, do not include them in your statement. Include only pharmacy-related experiences.

6. Avoid plagiarism

Committee members can always see through plagiarized works, so avoid this at all costs. This will only destroy your credibility in the field.

7. Avoid controversial topics

The personal statement is not a discussion ground for questionable topics. Do not alleviate issues that disagree with the overall subject in question.

8. Proofread your work

Sometimes people miss tiny mistakes by not proofreading their work. Have friends and family check your work and act on the comments. Inadequate proofreading can be catastrophic, so ensure you correctly use your language before sending the statement to the admission committee.

As now you are well acquainted with the components of writing an impeccable pharmacy personal statement , you should have no trouble in getting admitted into Pharmacy school. Pharmacy school is about honor and prestige, and you need the best of luck in this noble endeavor.

Chemistry Problem Solver: How to Become One?

Understanding the Various Types of Hepatitis Virus

Featured image for Beyond Braces: ADHD Evolution A Look at How Treatment Has Evolved

March 18, 2024

Featured image for Beyond Braces: A Look at Modern Orthodontic Care

February 18, 2024

Featured image for How to Become a Pharmacy Technician?

February 3, 2024

Featured image for What Is Granulator?

November 10, 2023

Featured image for What is Exosome Therapy and Who Can It Help?

September 26, 2023

' src=

Thanks for Sharing the Great Post.

' src=

You are welcome. I am happy you found it useful.

' src=

I’m very excited to have found out this article, Keep on writing more and more. All Assignments Help

' src=

I love dis article

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Excipients Used In the Formulation of Liquid Dosage Forms
  • Subcutaneous Route of Drug Administration: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • What is the difference between adsorption and absorption?
  • Setting Up A Pharmaceutical Industry in Nigeria
  • Compendial Standards and Regulatory Requirements for Capsules
  • Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) State Offices and Contact Details
  • Rectal Route of Drug Administration: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Physical Stability Issues Frequently Encountered In Suspensions
  • Pharmacokinetics: What Does the Body Do to Drugs?
  • First Pass Effect Explained

Regulations, Guidelines and Clinical Trials

Important links, submit articles.

  • Terms and Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

x

Home > Pharmacy > Personal statement

A woman picking up a perscription.

Personal statement

Many students get very concerned about what to write in their personal statement. The most important thing is that it is written by you, it reflects you as a person, and is an honest reflection of your thoughts, skills and interests.

What to write about

The personal statement is your opportunity to articulate why you would like to study pharmacy, and explain what skills and experience you possess which would make you a good pharmacist.

Remember that your personal statement should be individual to you rather than a series of clichés. The personal statement is the same for each course you apply for, so avoid mentioning any universities or colleges by name.

In your personal statement, you should:

  • Tell the reader why you are applying – include your motivation to study pharmacy, as well as what interests you about the subject
  • Explain what makes you suitable for a career in pharmacy – this could be relevant experience, skills, or achievements you have gained from education, work, or other activities
  • Talk about any current affairs in pharmacy or healthcare which you have heard about, explaining what you found interesting and why
  • Mention any other pharmacy or science related outreach activities you may have attended, explaining what you found interesting and why
  • Include some information about what you like to do in your spare time and how this has developed your skills
  • If there are any personal circumstances which have affected your educational performance or qualification choices, outline them in your personal statement. For example, this might be something that caused you to miss school, such as a physical or mental health condition, or caring for a family member.

Core values and attributes of a pharmacist

A good pharmacist is more than someone with the right qualifications and grades. Pharmacists need to have good problem solving and communication skills, be able to manage complexity, and possess a strong attention to detail when optimising patients’ medicines. They must be a professional – someone who collaborates with others, takes a leadership role in patient advocacy, and who possesses integrity. The personal statement is therefore an important part of the application process, as it gives you the opportunity to give a rounded sense of yourself as an individual.

Skills and attributes of an ideal candidate to pharmacy

  • Motivation to study pharmacy and genuine interest in the profession
  • Effective communication, including reading, writing, listening and speaking
  • Ability to work in a team
  • Personal organisation
  • Academic ability with an interest in science
  • Responsibility
  • Professionalism
  • Attention to detail and be analytical
  • Some work experience in a pharmacy or patient/public facing setting

Reflect on your experiences

The most important thing about your personal statement is that it is written by you and that it is an honest reflection of your thoughts, skills and interests. When writing your personal statement, keep these core skills and attributes in mind. Rather than simply stating that you embody these attributes, give examples of how you have demonstrated them in the past, for instance, through extracurricular activities.

How are personal statements used?

Pharmacy schools vary in how they assess personal statements. Some score them while others do not. The personal statement is often used as a basis for conversation at interview, so it is a good idea to write about experiences which you would be prepared to expand on if asked.

Student reading text.

Test yourself

Write a list of everything you would want a pharmacy school to know about you – your achievements, talents, experiences and personal qualities. To help you structure your personal statement, allocate each element in your list to one of the following areas:

Introduction

Knowledge and interest in pharmacy

Work or voluntary experience

Hobbies and interests

You should now be able to develop a first draft of your personal statement.

Username or email  *

Password  *

Forgotten password?

[email protected]

+44 (0)20 8834 4579

Medicine Personal Statement Examples

Get some inspiration to start writing your Medicine Personal Statement with these successful examples from current Medical School students. We've got Medicine Personal Statements which were successful for universities including Imperial, UCL, King's, Bristol, Edinburgh and more.

Personal Statement Examples

  • Read successful Personal Statements for Medicine
  • Pay attention to the structure and the content
  • Get inspiration to plan your Personal Statement

Personal Statement Example 1

Check out this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, UCL, QMUL and King's.

Personal Statement Example 2

This Personal Statement comes from a student who received Medicine offers from Bristol and Plymouth - and also got an interview at Cambridge.

Personal Statement Example 3

Have a look at this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, Edinburgh, Dundee and Newcastle.

Personal Statement Example 4

Take a look at this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for King's, Newcastle, Bristol and Sheffield.

Personal Statement Example 5

Pick up tips from this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, Birmingham and Manchester.

Personal Statement Example 6

This Personal Statement comes from a student who got into Graduate Entry Medicine at King's - and also had interviews for Undergraduate Medicine at King's, QMUL and Exeter.

Loading More Content

  • Applying to Uni
  • Apprenticeships
  • Health & Relationships
  • Money & Finance

Personal Statements

  • Postgraduate
  • U.S Universities

University Interviews

  • Vocational Qualifications
  • Accommodation
  • ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
  • ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
  • ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
  • ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

  • ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
  • ​​​​​​​Technology
  • ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

  • Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

  • Postgraduate Personal Statements
  • International Student Personal Statements
  • Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

  • Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

  • Mature Student Personal Statements
  • Personal Statements By University
  • Accountancy and Finance Personal Statements
  • Actuarial Science Personal Statements
  • American Studies Personal Statements
  • Anthropology Personal Statements
  • Archaeology Personal Statements
  • Architecture Personal Statements
  • Art and Design Personal Statements
  • Biochemistry Personal Statements
  • Bioengineering Personal Statements
  • Biology Personal Statements
  • Biomedical Science Personal Statements
  • Biotechnology Personal Statements
  • Business Management Personal Statement Examples
  • Business Personal Statements
  • Catering and Food Personal Statements
  • Chemistry Personal Statements
  • Classics Personal Statements
  • Computer Science Personal Statements
  • Computing and IT Personal Statements
  • Criminology Personal Statements
  • Dance Personal Statements
  • Dentistry Personal Statements
  • Design Personal Statements
  • Dietetics Personal Statements
  • Drama Personal Statements
  • Economics Personal Statement Examples
  • Education Personal Statements
  • Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • English Personal Statements
  • Environment Personal Statements
  • Environmental Science Personal Statements
  • Event Management Personal Statements
  • Fashion Personal Statements
  • Film Personal Statements
  • Finance Personal Statements
  • Forensic Science Personal Statements
  • Geography Personal Statements
  • Geology Personal Statements
  • Health Sciences Personal Statements
  • History Personal Statements
  • History of Art Personal Statements
  • Hotel Management Personal Statements
  • International Relations Personal Statements
  • International Studies Personal Statements
  • Islamic Studies Personal Statements
  • Japanese Studies Personal Statements
  • Journalism Personal Statements
  • Land Economy Personal Statements
  • Languages Personal Statements
  • Law Personal Statement Examples
  • Linguistics Personal Statements
  • Management Personal Statements
  • Marketing Personal Statements
  • Mathematics Personal Statements
  • Media Personal Statements

Medicine Personal Statement Examples

  • Midwifery Personal Statements
  • Music Personal Statements
  • Music Technology Personal Statements
  • Natural Sciences Personal Statements
  • Neuroscience Personal Statements
  • Nursing Personal Statements
  • Occupational Therapy Personal Statements
  • Osteopathy Personal Statements
  • Oxbridge Personal Statements
  • Pharmacy Personal Statements
  • Philosophy Personal Statements
  • Photography Personal Statements
  • Physics Personal Statements
  • Physiology Personal Statements
  • Physiotherapy Personal Statements
  • Politics Personal Statements
  • Psychology Personal Statement Examples
  • Radiography Personal Statements
  • Religious Studies Personal Statements
  • Social Work Personal Statements
  • Sociology Personal Statements
  • Sports & Leisure Personal Statements
  • Sports Science Personal Statements
  • Surveying Personal Statements
  • Teacher Training Personal Statements
  • Theology Personal Statements
  • Travel and Tourism Personal Statements
  • Urban Planning Personal Statements
  • Veterinary Science Personal Statements
  • Zoology Personal Statements
  • Personal Statement Editing Service
  • Personal Statement Writing Guide
  • Submit Your Personal Statement
  • Personal Statement Questions 2025
  • Personal Statement Changes 2024

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

What else can you find in this article?

What is a medicine personal statement, how do i write a medicine personal statement, what should i include in my medicine personal statement, how do i structure my medicine personal statement, how do i write an introduction for my medicine personal statement, how do i write a conclusion for my medicine personal statement, how do i write an effective medicine personal statement.

  • What can I do with a medicine degree?

Your medicine personal statement should tell the university all about your strengths, skills, experience and ambitions, as well as your personal traits that will help you become a great doctor.

It should also convey your enthusiasm for medicine and what aspects of the subject you enjoy and why.  

Your medicine personal statement will be used by universities to decide whether you are a good candidate to study medicine, and whether they want to offer you a place.

One way is to start your statement with why you want to study medicine at university. Try to pick one or two specific aspects that you like in particular and why they appeal to you.

Make sure you back up everything with examples (always show, don’t tell). You need to convince the admissions tutors that you they should offer you a place on their medicine course over anyone else.

A successful medicine personal statement should be written clearly and concisely, with a good introduction, middle, and conclusion. Remember, medicine is a highly competitive subject, so your personal statement needs to be as polished as possible.

Our personal statement template can help guide you through writing your first draft.

For inspiration on how to write your own unique statement, take a look at some of our medicine personal statement examples above.

It’s important to include skills and experience from all areas of your life and try to relate them to hobbies or extracurricular activities if they helped you to build on certain strengths.

Think about how any work experience has benefitted you, and how it might be useful in your degree.

University admissions tutors want to know what you can bring to their department and what value you can add.

Think about how and why you might treat patients the way you do, and what skills such as empathy, compassion and communication, are important for becoming a doctor. How might you demonstrate this?

Mention your personal traits and how they make you suited to a career in medicine.

You need to be a well-rounded individual in terms of academic talent, people skills and practical experience in order to have a chance of being successful with your medicine UCAS application.

For more help and advice on what to write in your medicine personal statement, please see:

  • Personal Statement Editing Services
  • Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
  • Analysis Of A Personal Statement
  • The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
  • Personal Statement FAQs
  • Personal Statement Timeline
  • 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
  • What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

A good medicine personal statement should start off with an engaging introduction that tells an anecdote or picks out a specific aspect of the subject that explains why you are passionate about medicine, and why you wish to study it further.

For the middle sections, focus on your work experience and any extracurricular activities, hobbies or clubs you take part in outside of school/college, and how these have helped you develop skills that are important for medicine. For example, you might talk about how shadowing a doctor on a ward taught you about how to relate to patients and their problems, and how to empthasis with their situation.

Your conclusion should round off your statement in a memorable way that will confirm to the admissions tutors that you are a student that they want on their course, and make them offer you a place.

This might include reiterating your enthusiasm for the subject and why you think you would make a good student, or mentioning your future plans and ambitions, and how you hope your medical degree will help you achieve these.

To craft a memorable introduction to your statement, you should focus on:

  • Grabbing the reader’s attention with an interesting and relevant anecdote.
  • Avoiding cliches, such as "I've always wanted to study medicine from a young age..." or "Since primary school I've always been interested in the human body..."
  • Conveying personal qualities that show you willl be able to cope with the demands of medical school and a career as a medical doctor.
  • Not repeating information that is already in another part of the application form, such as academic achievements.
  • Keeping it to an appropriate length (usually no more than 4-6 lines in total). Remeber, you have the main body and conclusion to write as well.
  • Demonstrating their enthusiasm and passion for certain subjects relevant to medicine, such as biology and chemistry.
  • Showing personal traits that are important for a career in medicine such as empathy, communication and respectfulness.
  • Relating relevant experiences, what you learned from them and how they demonstrate you are suitable for a career in medicine.
  • Crafting a succinct summary of why you're keen to study medicine at university.

As much as the first impression is crucial, the last impression is very important as well. You need to make sure the admission officers that will read your personal statement are left feeling like you are the right candidate. And that’s why you need to sum up or all the facts that make you a great doctor!

The best way to conclude your personal statement is to loop back to what you were writing about in the introduction. Do not just rewrite it, but reinforce why you think you are a good candidate based on your qualities and your deep interest in Medicine.

Think about what personally motivates you, and why you want to be a doctor. You may have already expressed this in your personal statement, but now is the time to make sure the examiner know this.

You should also consider what has sparked your interest and what you have already spoken about in your personal statement. You may also want to think about some of the challenges that the NHS is facing.

The conclusion should include the following:

  •     A list of your attributes and qualities that will help you in your medical career
  •     Your views on medicine and motivation based on your past experiences
  •     What you hope to achieive once you've completed your medical degree.

Try and keep the conclusion to 3 or 4 lines, you shouldn’t be introducing too much new information at this point. Remember – use the conclusion as an opportunity to remind the admissions tutors why everything you’ve written about makes you so fantastic and worthy of a place at their Medical School!

To write a medicine personal statement that stands out, we recommend you follow these top tips:

  • Structure is essential - this is because it can make or break your personal statement. We recommend dedicating one or two paragraphs to each part of your personal statement.
  • Plan ahead - we suggest getting down some notes during the summer holidays and putting together a first draft before you go back to school/college for your final year
  • Be original - this means picking an aspect of the course you enjoy and explaining why in a way that doesn't include cliches, or any over-used words or phrases
  • Explain why you're right for the course, including any relevant skills, work experience and hobbies/extracurricular activities
  • Think about what you want to gain from your course and how this will help you with your future career plans
  • Include a balance of academic and extracurricular content - admissions tutors want to see that you are a well-rounded individual
  • Be positive and enthusiastic about the subject
  • Revise and edit thoroughly by asking friends, family and teachers for feedback and incorporating their suggestions to try and improve it
  • Proofread carefully (don't just rely on a Spellchecker!)

Further resources

For more information about applying for a medicine degree and careers in medicine, please see the following:

  • Medicine Courses & Undergraduate Degrees - The Uni Guide
  • Becoming a doctor in the UK - GMC
  • What can I do with a medical degree?
  • Medical School Finance - BMA
  • Careers in Medicine - RSM
  • Healthcare Careers

Related resources

Dentistry or medicine.

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Find out more

Engineering Vs Medicine

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Medicine Interview Questions

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Careers In Medicine

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Writing A Medicine Personal Statement

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Medical Schools Council Advice

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

UCAS Medicine Subject Guide

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

NHS Medicine Opportunities

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

ESLDIRECT.COM

ESL Resources for Job Hunters, English Learners, Adult Learners and Tutors

Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

In this article, we discuss pharmacy personal statement examples and how to write a strong statement for pharmacy school.

Find out how a chemistry set and a mom who was a nurse put one candidate on the path to becoming a pharmacist, and how another candidate learned about patient advocacy in rural Cameroon. We’ll also find out how a potential international student plans to contribute to the community in the USA.

The pharmacy personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application. It’s your chance to show who you are as a person and why you want to study pharmacy.

Your personal statement should be well-written, honest, and specific to you as an individual. To help you get started, we’ve put together some pharmacy personal statement examples below.

Table of Contents

What is a pharmacy personal statement, how to write a strong personal statement for pharmacy school, pharmacy personal statement example 1, pharmacy personal statement example 2, pharmacy personal statement example 3, faq (frequently asked questions), more personal statement tutorials.

It’s a short personal essay written about yourself that is used to help graduate schools decide if you would make a good candidate for their programme.

It explains why you want to pursue pharmacology, any awards or achievements you have received, any relevant work or internship experience, and attributes that make you a good candidate, such as excellent people skills, strong attention to detail, and strong organisational skills.

It can also provide an opportunity to showcase qualities that can’t be easily articulated in words, such as empathy, leadership, and motivation. Ultimately, it can be the deciding factor in your acceptance into a pharmacy programme.

Step 1: Explain your USP (unique selling point)

When writing a personal statement for pharmacy school, it is important to determine your approach – what do you need them to know? What is your USP?

You should consider your motivation for pursuing pharmacy as a career, the experiences that have prepared you for pharmacy school, your personal qualities that make you a strong candidate, and how you fit with the pharmacy school you are applying to.

By reflecting on these factors, you can develop a clear and compelling personal statement that highlights your strengths, experiences, and passion for pharmacy.

As an international student, I am committed to bringing a unique perspective to the classroom and contributing to the cultural diversity of the pharmacy program. I believe that my background and experiences will enable me to connect with patients and colleagues from different cultures and build strong relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. I particularly look forward to volunteering with Spanish speakers in the local community during my time at pharmacy school.

Step 2: Read and reread the institution’s instructions

When writing a pharmacy personal statement, it is important to carefully read and reread the instructions provided by the institution to ensure that you meet all the requirements and guidelines.

Start by reading the instructions thoroughly, taking notes on key points, highlighting important details and asking for clarification if needed.

Make sure to pay attention to what is to be included in your personal statement (for example a key question) and if there is a word limit.

Step 3: Consider getting help from an expert

  • Identify potential experts. You can do this by reaching out to your academic advisor, contacting your local pharmacy association, or searching online.
  • Reach out to them respectfully
  • Provide them with the necessary information such as your academic history, work experience, and goals for pursuing pharmacy.
  • Listen to their feedback carefully
  • Express your gratitude for their time and expertise.

Remember to be respectful of their time and follow up in a timely manner.

Step 4: Write your personal statement

  • Begin by summarising your suitability for the role. Make sure to write from the first-person viewpoint.
  • Outline your qualifications and experience, followed by your relevant skills. Be sure to emphasize your enthusiasm for the field of pharmacy and the role you are applying for.
  • Keep your personal statement brief and include details relevant to the role.
  • Be open and honest in your writing. Being honest in your personal statement will help to prevent any exaggeration or incorrect information.
  • Talk about how you solved a problem, really connected with a patient or learned something important relating to pharmacy studies.
  • During a placement in Cameroon, I learned to ask the obvious and not so obvious questions. Why were several HIV patients from one village suddenly presenting with stomach ulcers? It turned out that some villagers only ate once a day and without support, could not follow the instructions to take medications twice a day with food. A local NGO helped with training on nutritious plants that were safe to eat, in order to take the second dose of medication. I realised that I want to be the type of pharmacist that goes the extra mile to understand the everyday healthcare challenges in the lives of her patients, and support them where needed.

Step 5: Determine your target audience and message

To determine your target audience and message for your pharmacy personal statement:

  • Research the pharmacy program: Learn as much as you can about the pharmacy program you are applying to, including its mission statement, values, and requirements. This will help you to understand what the program is looking for in its applicants.
  • Identify the target audience: Consider who will be reading your personal statement, such as admissions officers or faculty members. Think about what they are looking for in an applicant and what they might be interested in hearing from you.
  • Consider your message: Think about what you want to convey in your personal statement, such as your passion for pharmacy, your experiences that have prepared you for pharmacy school, and your goals for your pharmacy career. Make sure that your message aligns with the values and mission of the pharmacy program you are applying to.
  • Tailor your message to the audience: what are you most interested in learning about? For this candidate, it’s the way in which pharmacists can use new technology.

In particular, I am interested in exploring the ways in which technology can be leveraged to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery. During the recent pandemic, apps such as HealthPass made it much safer for more vulnerable patients to participate in daily life. As the healthcare landscape continues to shift towards a more patient-centered, value-based model, I believe that pharmacists must be at the forefront of innovation and change.

Step 6: Keep your personal statement concise and clear

Make sure that each point is concise. Paraphrase and condense the content where possible. Make sure that your final statement does not exceed one page.

The order of your paragraphs must make sense. Make sure your points flow logically and that there is a smooth transition from one point to the next.

Step 7: Share your personal statement with a trusted reviewer

Have an expert review your personal statement. Ask someone you trust to read over your statement and provide feedback on the grammar, structure, and content.

Make any necessary changes. Based on the feedback you receive, adjust your statement to make it stronger.

As a dedicated and passionate student of pharmacy, I am committed to making a difference in the lives of others through my work. I believe that pharmacists have a unique opportunity to improve the health and well-being of patients, and I am eager to contribute to this important field.

My interest in pharmacy began at a young age when I saw first-hand the impact that medications can have on a person’s quality of life. I witnessed my grandmother struggle with a chronic illness, and I was inspired by the role that her pharmacist played in helping to manage her condition. This experience motivated me to pursue a career in pharmacy, and I have been working diligently towards this goal ever since.

Throughout my academic career, I have taken a rigorous course load that has prepared me well for the challenges of pharmacy school. I have excelled in courses such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, and pharmacology, and I have gained practical experience through internships and volunteer work. I am confident that my academic background has prepared me well for the challenging curriculum of pharmacy school, and I am excited to continue my education in this field. In addition to my advocacy experience and academic accomplishments, I possess a number of personal qualities that I believe make me a strong candidate for pharmacy school. I am detail-oriented and meticulous in my work, and I am committed to providing the highest level of care to patients. I am also an excellent communicator, and I believe that effective communication is essential to building strong relationships with patients and healthcare providers.

During a placement in Cameroon, I learned to ask the obvious and not so obvious questions. Why were several HIV patients from one village suddenly presenting with stomach ulcers? It turned out that some villagers only ate once a day and without support, could not follow the instructions to take medications twice a day with food. A local NGO helped with training on nutritious plants that were safe to eat, in order to take the second dose of medication. I realised that I want to be the type of pharmacist that goes the extra mile to understand the everyday healthcare challenges in the lives of her patients and support them where needed.

Ultimately, my goal as a pharmacist is to improve the health and well-being of patients through compassionate care and innovative solutions. I am committed to lifelong learning and professional development as a pharmacy professional, and I am excited to contribute to the dynamic and constantly evolving field of pharmacy. Thank you for considering my application.

As a very young child playing with a $10 chemistry set, I was sure that if I tried hard enough I could mix up a medicine that could save all the sick people in the hospital where my mother worked as a nurse! As a dedicated and motivated student of pharmacy, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to pursue an advanced degree in this exciting and constantly evolving field. Throughout my academic career, I have been driven by a passion for helping others and a deep curiosity about the science of medicine.

I believe that pharmacy is uniquely positioned at the intersection of science and patient care, and I am excited to explore the many ways in which pharmacists can make a difference in the lives of patients. From a young age, I was fascinated by the stories of patients my mother would tell, explaining how medicines had helped them to get better. I realised that as researchers work on developing new drugs and therapies to provide education and counselling to patients, pharmacists play a critical role in improving healthcare outcomes and promoting wellness.

In particular, I am interested in exploring the ways in which technology can be leveraged to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery. During the recent pandemic, apps such as HealthPass made it much safer for more vulnerable patients to participate in daily life. As the healthcare landscape continues to shift towards a more patient-centred, value-based model, I believe that pharmacists must be at the forefront of innovation and change.

In pursuing an advanced degree in pharmacy, I am excited to collaborate with other healthcare professionals and experts in the field to explore new solutions and approaches. I am eager to learn from experienced professionals, conduct research, and apply my knowledge and skills to real-world challenges to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of patients and the ongoing evolution and growth of the field. I am so excited to embark on this exciting new chapter in my academic and professional journey.

As an international student, I am excited to have the opportunity to pursue a degree in pharmacy in the USA. I am drawn to the USA’s reputation for excellence in healthcare and its innovative approach to pharmacy education.

My passion for pharmacy began in my home country, where the numbers of hospitals and doctors per capita are very low and most people would go to a pharmacy rather to a private doctor. I can see the critical role that pharmacists play in promoting wellness and managing chronic conditions. In Mexico, the obesity crisis means that around 14 million adults are living with diabetes, a rise of about 10% in the last few years. This number includes eight of my relatives and without supportive, empathetic pharmacists, I believe that some of my family members would not have survived. As a biology major for my undergraduate degree, I am eager to build on the foundation and gain a deeper understanding of the science of medicine, as well as the complex healthcare systems that underpin patient care.

I am confident that studying pharmacy in the USA will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and experience I need to excel in this challenging and rewarding field. I am particularly excited about the opportunities for hands-on learning and practical experience, as well as the chance to collaborate with other students and professionals from diverse backgrounds.

My goal as a pharmacist is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and to contribute to the ongoing advancement of healthcare in my home country and beyond. I am confident that studying pharmacy in the USA will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and networks I need to achieve this goal, and I am excited to embark on this exciting new chapter in my academic and professional journey.

Some of these questions were already covered in this blog post but I will still list them here (because not everyone carefully reads every paragraph) so here’s the TL;DR version.

What are the essential components of a strong pharmacy personal statement?

A strong pharmacy personal statement should include:

  • an introduction
  • knowledge and interest in pharmacy
  • work or voluntary experience, hobbies and interests
  • why you want to pursue pharmacy
  • what about that particular university’s programme appeals to you
  • any achievements or awards you’ve received
  • any relevant internships or work experience
  • why you’d make a good candidate
  • qualities such as excellent people skills, strong attention to detail, honesty and integrity, and good communication skills.

What qualifications do I need to apply to a pharmacy school program?

In order to apply to a pharmacy school program, you need to have a foundational degree in the field of pharmacy.

A pharmacy degree program in the United States usually involves at least 2 years of specific undergraduate coursework followed by 3-4 years of professional study.

Finally, it’s important to note that depending on the particular university you plan on attending, there may be some additional institutional requirements. These will be listed on the university’s website and/or in the admissions packet for the school.

How do I demonstrate my enthusiasm for a career in pharmacy?

Below are a few tips to help you demonstrate enthusiasm for a career in pharmacy including some examples.

Describe any relevant work experience you have gained in local pharmacies.

This work experience has helped me gain a better understanding of how pharmacies work, as well as how to build trust in dealing with customers. I have also demonstrated empathy, active listening, and confidence in customer interactions.

Discuss the knowledge you have gained from working in different pharmacies.

Through my work in different pharmacies, I have developed an understanding of over-the-counter and prescription medications, treatments, relief, and side effects for common conditions including asthma, diabetes, and hypertension.

Showcase your commitment to learning and development.

I have taken part in self-directed learning to stay abreast of the dynamic field of pharmaceuticals. Through workshops, conferences, and courses, I have learned more about natural treatments, the human body, medicine, and recovery.

How can I demonstrate my suitability for a pharmacy degree programme?

  • Academic preparation: Show that you have the necessary academic preparation for a pharmacy degree programme by highlighting your performance in relevant courses, such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
  • Relevant experiences : Highlight any relevant experiences that demonstrate your interest in pharmacy, such as work or volunteer experience in a pharmacy or healthcare setting.
  • Personal qualities: Emphasize the personal qualities that make you a good fit for a pharmacy degree programme. This can include qualities such as attention to detail, strong teamwork and communication skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and a commitment to patient care.
  • Career goals : Discuss your career goals and how a pharmacy degree will help you achieve them. Show that you have a clear understanding of the profession and how you see yourself contributing to the field in the future
  • Community involvement : Discuss any involvement in your community, such as volunteering at a hospital, patient advocacy or participating in community health initiatives. This can help to demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

What information is required in the body paragraphs of a pharmacy personal statement?

The applicant’s knowledge and interest in pharmacy, work or volunteer experience, and hobbies and interests.

The applicant’s values, goals, and motivations for wanting to pursue a career in pharmacy.

Any relevant awards, certifications, or other accomplishments that set them apart from other applicants.

The applicant’s unique qualities, such as enthusiasm and dedication, will benefit the pharmacy program.

How can I demonstrate my knowledge of the healthcare profession and pharmacology?

  • Research extensively on pharmacology and the healthcare profession, including current trends and related topics.
  • Organise work experience at pharmacies, paying close attention to how pharmacists interact with customers and handle various prescription drugs.
  • Take a course related to the healthcare profession and pharmacology.
  • Volunteer with charities or organizations that are related to the healthcare profession, such as Oxfam.

What types of work experience placements are appropriate for pharmacy school applications?

These placements can be found in both the public and private sectors.

In the public sector, pharmacy placements may be available in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Placements may involve assisting with the dispensing of medications, managing the inventory of medications, and providing customer service to patients.

In the private sector, placements may be available in retail stores such as supermarkets and drug stores. Placements may involve managing the inventory of medications, providing customer service to customers, and assisting with the dispensing of medications.

Additionally, placements may be available in pharmaceutical companies. Placements may involve assisting with research and development, managing the inventory of medications, and providing customer service to customers.

How do I make sure my pharmacy personal statement is free of spelling and grammar errors?

To make sure your personal statement is free of spelling and grammar errors, it is important to follow these steps:

  • Start writing your pharmacy personal statement as early as possible. This gives you the time to brainstorm some ideas, and then begin your first draft.
  • After writing your first draft, carefully revise and edit it first. Then, ask classmates or an academic advisor for feedback and incorporate their comments and suggestions.
  • Hire a professional editor to proofread your writing or use a do-it-yourself tool like Grammarly to check for any grammar and spelling mistakes.
  • Finally, make sure that your pharmacy personal statement is just on or below the required word count.
  • Personal Statement versus Statement of Purpose
  • How to Write a Winning Scholarship Personal Statement: With Examples
  • Residency Personal Statement Examples: Top Tips for Best Length, Content, and Structure
  • Statement of Purpose Examples: How to Write the Best One for You?
  • Nursing Personal Statement Examples in 2023
  • How to write a Resume Personal Statement That Gets You the Job – with Examples and Tips
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for Psychology: With Helpful Tips and Examples
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for Engineering: Examples and Advice
  • Best Internal Medicine Personal Statement Examples For Residency
  • MBA Personal Statement Examples for Graduate Applicants
  • Law Personal Statement Examples to Help With Your Law School Application
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for Criminology: With Helpful Examples

The College Application

The Pharmacy Personal Statement Guide w/Prompts & Examples

Image of a Pharmacist with a customer at a Pharmacy store

The Importance of Writing a Great Pharmacy Personal Statement

To become a pharmacist anywhere in the UK, you’ll need to be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and have, at minimum, a master’s degree from an accredited university. This requires you to enter into a graduate-level programme for pharmacology. When applying to these types of programmes, it’s very important that you have a strong pharmacy personal statement.

When it comes to applying to a pharmacy programme at the graduate level, there are many requirements to meet. Many of these come in the form of prerequisites you need before you can be considered for grad school.

Pharmacy Programme Prerequisites

The  common prerequisites  for applying to university for pharmacology mostly involve classes you should’ve taken before applying to the programme. These classes include three (3) A-levels in the following subjects:

  • and various Maths

You must receive a grade of B or higher in each of these for it to meet the prerequisite.

You must also take five (5) General Certificates of Secondary Education, otherwise known as GCSEs, in the following subjects:

  • Various Maths
  • English/Language

For these courses, you must have received a grade of C or higher.

There are a few alternate routes you can take if you don’t meet the above listed prerequisites. These include having a foundational degree in the field of pharmacy, having an HNC, HND or BTEC with a science focus, having earned the equivalent qualifications at an Irish or Scottish university and a few others. Having work or internship experience with a pharmacist also helps.

Depending on the particular Uni you plan on attending, you may have some additional institutional requirements. These will be listed on the university’s website and/or in the admissions packet for the school.

Steps to Obtaining Admission

Once you’ve covered all your prerequisite courses, it’s time to start the actual process of admissions. Do your research first; find the best Uni for you and check the website to see what types of admissions requirements they have in place. Some universities require you to take the PCAT (Pharmacy College Admissions Test) and earn a certain score before they’ll consider you for admission.

If you’ve not already taken the PCAT, though, check the admissions requirements for your particular Uni to see if you need to do so. Several universities across the country are eliminating the PCAT requirement, and there’s no reason to take it if it isn’t a requirement for your specific school. The next step is to fill out and submit an application to the school.

Applications require a lot of personal information, including your name, contact information, educational history, professional resume, personal and professional references, and a pharmacy personal statement, which is one of the most important parts of the application packet. Some universities require you to pay a fee or provide them with a fee waiver when submitting your application.

After you’ve submitted your application, it’ll be reviewed by the university’s admissions team. At this point, they may call you in for  an interview . After that, you should be ready to enter the pharmacy programme.

But how do you make sure you get to the interview stage? Aside from having good grades and an impressive personal resume, writing an exceptional and memorable pharmacy personal statement is the best way to make sure you’re called in for that final step.

What is a Pharmacy Personal Statement?

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

A pharmacy personal statement is a personal essay you write about yourself. Many unis will give you a specific prompt to help guide your writing. For those few that don’t, there are  several things you’ll want to include , such as why you want to pursue pharmacology, what about that particular university’s programme appeals to you, any achievements or awards you’ve received, any relevant internship or work experience and why you’d make a good candidate.

There are also  attributes about yourself  you’ll want to mention in your personal statement. These are things you can’t simply write out in sentences. Instead, you’ll want to discuss relevant topics and tell personal stories that show that you have these qualities without you directly saying, “ I work well with others and have good communication skills. “

These important attributes include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Excellent people skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Honesty and integrity
  • Good communication skills
  • The ability to work on a team
  • Leadership skills
  • Strong organisational skills
  • Highly motivated to succeed
  • A strong sense of responsibility and professionalism

All of these qualities make you a good candidate for a pharmacy programme. The more of these you can show you have, the more likely you’ll be called for an interview.

What is a Prompt, and Why Should You Follow It?

If your specific university provides you with a prompt, they’re simply giving you a question to help focus what you write about in your personal statement. There are several different prompts unis use, and we’ll discuss some of the most common of those later.

No matter what the prompt is, it’s important you answer it completely. Most universities use prompts relative to your interest in pharmacology, your educational history, or attributes that would make you a good candidate for their programme. There will occasionally be a prompt that surprises you though. In those cases, still, answer the prompt.

Be as honest and as thorough as you can, and remember, even if the prompt is something strange or unusual, there are usually still ways to work in stories that show you in your best light. You may just have to be a little more creative.

Below, you’ll find a few of the most common prompts for writing your pharmacy personal statement on your admissions applications.

Pharmacy Personal Statement Prompts

Prompt 1: tell us about yourself (kings university london).

Many universities use a very vague prompt that just instructs you to talk about yourself. As Kingston University London puts it, “You are the main topic of this essay.”

This is a great, easy prompt to get. Don’t be afraid to be honest and really talk yourself up in this kind of statement.

For this particular prompt, you’ll want to cover everything we mentioned above, particularly why you’re interested in pursuing a career in Pharmacy, what education you’ve had that qualifies you for the programme, any relevant work or leadership experience that would make you a good candidate and anything that showcases the attributes we listed above.

Again, be honest and as thorough as possible. Remember, the goal of this statement is to make you memorable and desirable. As a result, talking about all the great accomplishments or achievements you have isn’t bragging or boasting. It’s what’s required if you want to stand out from the other applicants.

Prompt 2: Demonstrate your commitment to pursuing a career in Pharmacy, and tell us why you’re better suited to the programme than other applicants (King’s College London).

This prompt is quite similar to the above “Tell us about yourself” prompt. In it, you’ll cover much of the same things, especially when you start talking about why you should be chosen for the programme over other applicants.

Just remember that there’s a direct question about why you want to work in pharmacology. Because it’s being asked directly, you want to spend a bit of time giving a complete answer. You can talk about why you became interested in pharmaceuticals in the first place. Was there a specific event in your childhood that inspired you to want to help take care of sick people? Have you had a strong love of chemistry for as long as you can remember? What inspired you to choose this field over all the over available career fields?

This prompt also allows you to talk about your career goals. What do you want to do with your MPharm once you get it? How is this degree going to help you in those goals, and how are you going to use your skills and your degree to make the world better once you do get a job? It would also benefit you to talk about the classes you’ve already taken and the work you’ve already done to work towards your goals.

Prompt 3: What benefits do you expect to gain from admission into our programme? (Cardiff University)

For this prompt, you can still talk a little about why you chose pharmacology and what you hope to do with your degree once you’ve earned it. More importantly, though, you’ll want to answer the actual question the prompt asks. What are you hoping to gain from this particular programme that sets it apart from all the other pharmacy programmes you could have chosen instead?

Talk about specific courses or labs for which this programme is well-known. This is a great way to showcase that you’ve done your research and really looked into what this university has to offer. By highlighting particular aspects of the programme, you prove to the admissions team you didn’t just pick this university on a whim or because it was the closest one to your flat. Instead, you did some reading and compared the programme to those at other schools and decided this one was the best fit for you because…  You fill in the blanks!

Proving to a school that you know something about the school and that you hope to gain the actual knowledge and skills they’re famous for providing to students is a huge point in your favour. This specific prompt allows you to do that.

Prompt 4: Tell us about any work experience, internships, leadership positions you’ve held or outside activities that would support your application for admission (The University of Manchester).

This prompt is another one that’s similar to the “ Tell us about yourself ” prompt. In answering this prompt, you’ll be able to talk about yourself, your history, your past accomplishments, your interest in pharmacy, and more. You’ll want to put your largest focus, though, on the actual work you’ve done to prepare you for entrance into this programme.

This could include any of the following:

  • Working in an actual pharmacy or closely related field
  • Internships, volunteer experience or other placements within a pharmacy or related field
  • Any work experience you’ve had where you were part of a team or, even better, the leader of a team
  • Educational experience that would prepare you for the programme
  • Any honours you’ve received that show you to be exceptional in any relevant field

These are only a few examples of things you could discuss in response to this prompt.

Standard Pharmacy Personal Statement Format

No matter the specific prompt you’re given, there’s a general format you’ll use for most personal statements. Occasionally, a university will provide you with specific formatting instructions. If they do, you always want to follow those instructions exactly. If you aren’t provided with instructions, this is the general format preferred for most UK unis and their US counterparts for essays and/or personal statements:

  • MLA formatting guidelines
  • One-inch margins on each side of the page
  • (For the UK) Any professional font as long as the italics are noticeably different – most students use Times New Roman, Arial or Courier
  • (For the US) Times New Roman or Arial font
  • Font size – 12 pt.
  • Double-space, but add no extra lines between paragraphs
  • Indent the first line of each paragraph

Additionally, you’ll use the standard Intro-Body-Conclusion format that most MLA essays utilise.

Step 1. Introduction

Depending on the specific prompts people are given, each introductory paragraph will be a little different for each student. Generally, though, this is where you’ll introduce yourself and talk a little about why you’re interested in studying pharmacology in general and why you’re interested in studying at that university specifically. You’ll also want to catch the reader’s attention immediately, in the opening line if possible, but without using gimmicks or something overly dramatic.

According to a how-to guide on the  Birmingham City University website , “The most effective opening sentences are simple, to the point and personal to you.”

You’ll also want to  avoid writing in cliches  or using overused phrasing that everyone else uses. Be original. Be specific. Really help the admissions team understand your drive and passion for pharmacology.

Step 2. Body Paragraphs

Your body paragraphs are where you’ll put the majority of your information. These are the paragraphs where you’ll really dive into answering the question(s) the prompt asks. Unless you’re asked to write an abbreviated personal statement of just a couple hundred words, you should never have less than two body paragraphs, and it’s better to have between three and six.

You want to be comprehensive in your writing; include everything the admissions team might need to hear to sway them in your favour. This generally takes more than a couple of short paragraphs. Remember to indent the first line of each paragraph, and make sure they’re written in an order that makes sense. Don’t jump around from paragraph to paragraph. Make sure each transitions smoothly into the other.

Step 3. Conclusion

In the conclusion of your pharmacy personal statement, you’ll want to bring your entire essay to a smooth, sensible close. Don’t use your conclusion to restate everything you’ve already written. Instead, use it as a place to briefly touch on how entrance into the programme will help you succeed in your future goals.

Also, if it feels appropriate and doesn’t detract from the overall feel of your personal statement, take the time to thank the admissions team for reading it and considering you for application into their school’s pharmacy programme. Be aware that this isn’t always appropriate. If, after adding in the thank you, it seems forced or like it was written just to add more words to an essay that was a little too short, take it out.

Examples of Pharmacy Personal Statements

Example personal statement 1.

“I have gained valuable knowledge studying Chemistry, Biology and Maths which will be beneficial for the Pharmacy course. In Chemistry, I have done a series of experiments which require analytical and evaluative skills such as accurate reading when using burettes. I find the organic Chemistry module rather interesting as I enjoy studying the different reactions of aldehydes and ketones and how these reactions and organic products differ due to the different functional groups present in each compound. Another aspect of chemistry I enjoy is the purification of organic compounds.”

– Read the rest  here

This is the second paragraph of a pharmacy personal statement, and it’s a great example of how to answer a prompt that wants you to discuss any relevant experience you’ve had that could help you in the programme.

This student mentions many of the different science and mathematics courses she’s taken in pursuit of her pharmacy degree, but she doesn’t just list them. She goes into great detail about some of the things she’s done in those classes.

This is excellent for a few reasons. First of all, it’s evident in her writing that she greatly enjoyed the classes she took. This shows that she has a passion for the work she’ll have to do to obtain her MPharm. Universities much prefer to have students on campus who are truly invested in and enjoying the work they’re doing.

Additionally, she uses specific terms – “ketones,” “burettes,” “aldehydes” and more – which shows she has actual knowledge and understanding of the field. We can tell that she’s a knowledgeable, hard-working student who has, thus far, retained the information she learned in her undergraduate courses. Everything about this personal statement was done well.

Our Verdict:

Image of a smiling face with heart-shaped eyes emoji

Example Personal Statement 2

“I am interested in the Masters of Pharmacy (MPharm) Programme because I am interested in the modules on which it is based. I want to do the MPharm programme so as to extend my knowledge in Medicines. I would like to get a deeper understanding of how to formulate and administer drugs safely.

I would qualify for the Mpharm programme because I have recently completed BSc in pharmaceutical Science which has given me good understanding of how drugs work. The modules I have undertaken In my BSc Pharmaceutical Science will help me navigate successfully in the MPharm programme.”

This personal statement is a little less impressive than the first one. First of all, there’s not really an opening line. When writing a pharmacy personal statement – or a personal statement of any kind, for that matter – you want to have a nice first sentence that breaks the ice and starts the statement off in a fluid manner. This student just jumps right in and answers the question being asked. There’s no lead-in, no story being told.

The grammar in this particular sample isn’t great either. There are randomly capitalised words (“undertaken In my BSc”) and missing words (“given me good understanding”) and a few other problems that could have been addressed by good editing. This is a testament to why you should always  proofread and edit  your papers before submitting them. It’s even better to give them to a new set of eyes to edit for you if possible.

The two most bothersome things about this sample, though, is that it’s vague, and the sentences are choppy. The student mentions things he’s done (“ recently completed BSc in pharmaceutical Science “) and why he wants to be in the programme (“ because I am interested in the modules on which it is based “), but he gives absolutely no specifics.

He doesn’t talk about anything he learned in his BSc courses that furthered his love of pharmacology, and while he says he’s interested in the programme’s modules, he doesn’t mention a single specific module or why it interests him. We’re just given the bare minimum with no detail – the burger without the cheese and veggies. It’s boring.

Image of a burger joke saying "Be honest. Is this too much Lettuce?"

Finally, his sentences are horribly choppy. With the exception of one single sentence, each of his sentences starts with the word “I” – “I am,” “I want,” “I would.” There is no variation at all to his writing. It’s boring and makes the reader lose interest. You’ll want to change up the flow and style of your sentences regularly. It adds a little flair and makes your personal statement less monotonous.

Image of a yawning face emoji

Example Personal Statement 3

“Pharmacy has the ability to change people’s lives. Whether it is at the level of the community pharmacist offering the best advice possible to common illnesses, to high-level research into drugs that could cure a range of chronic or life-threatening diseases, the role of the pharmacist cannot be overestimated. As a motivated and hardworking individual, with a desire to understand the fascinating human body along with a joy of helping other people, I strongly believe that studying pharmacy will give me one of the final and most important step towards a rewarding career in the developing field of pharmacy.”

This is another stellar example of what a pharmacy personal statement should be. The writer begins strong with a unique and memorable opening sentence. He tells us, right from the first sentence, one of the reasons he wants to work in the field of pharmacology, but he does so without monotonously and obviously saying, “ I want to be a pharmacist because I think pharmacy can change people lives .” Instead, he simply and concisely says, “ Pharmacy has the ability to change people’s lives. “

It’s a great opening line, and it gives us insight into his reasons for going into the pharmacy field as well. He follows that up with a sentence that shows he’s knowledgeable about different career opportunities in the field of pharmacology.

Then he smoothly transitions into why he, himself, would do well in this field. He tells us he’s hardworking and motivated, but he does so in a way that doesn’t just state those facts outright without context.

He then once again tells us about his interest in the field and also shows us he is someone who enjoys working with and helping others. Finally, he sums up his introduction by leading into what he hopes to gain from the programme.

Although the next paragraph isn’t listed here, it, too, is a smooth transition into the educational and work experiences he’s had that prepared him to do well in the programme. Everything about this personal statement is well-organised, with each paragraph flowing smoothly into the next, and the whole thing covering everything that should be covered in a personal statement.

Image of a star-struck grinning emoji

Example Personal Statement 4

“I am interested in studying chemistry and biology because I would like a career that plays crucial role in public’s health.

I was previously working as a retail assistant and the experience has led me to deal and understand different kind of people. I learnt to keep myself calm, whilst working under pressure environments.

This job has also taught me to work in a fast-paced environment to meet the customer`s demands. This skill will be useful to meet the deadlines while doing my course and working as a pharmacist will enable me to provide good customer services.”

This personal statement is another example of  what not to do  when writing your own statement for admission into the pharmacy programme.

First of all, the introduction paragraph, shown here in its entirety, is much too short. You have to be an excellent writer to turn one sentence into a paragraph and make it work, and this writer didn’t do that. Your introduction should never be only one sentence. It needs to be fleshed out and thoroughly written. There are some glaring grammatical errors as well.

The next problem with this statement is that the work experience the student writes about isn’t really relevant to the programme she’s trying to enter into. She does an admirable job of trying to make it relevant, by talking about how it helped her learn to work with a multitude of different people and taught her to work quickly, but it doesn’t really work.

Most unis want to know that you have relevant work experience. If you don’t, it’s better to mention placement experiences or internships you’ve had that are relevant as opposed to irrelevant work experience. Even if you only worked in a pharmacy for a day as part of a class project, that’s okay. You can learn a lot in a day, and you can make that work in your writing.

Unless you’re really good at making non-relevant experience seem like it has actual relevance to the programme, it’s better to leave it out altogether. That’s not to say you can’t mention having retail or fast food experience, but you have to make sure that you meticulously explain how that experience is relevant to the pharmacology field.

Image of face with rolling eyes emoji

Example Personal Statement 5

“The enthusiasm I have for the sciences – specifically Chemistry – encouraged me to think about my future career and how a chemistry-related degree could be a possibility for me. I have always enjoyed maths and science throughout my education and I have recognised that I can combine both in a career in pharmacy. I believe pharmacy to be a fast-developing profession and recognise that pharmacists are heavily involved in the introduction of new medicines for all kinds of illnesses, and I find the prospect of working in this field inspiring.”

While this isn’t the best example of a personal statement, it’s far from being the worst. This is considered an average statement. The writer does a good job hitting all the points he should cover in his introduction – why he became interested in the field of pharmacy, a basic knowledge of the job description of a pharmacist and why he wants to work in the field in the future – but doesn’t do it in a way that’s incredibly memorable.

It isn’t the strongest introduction paragraph to a personal statement, but at the same time, it’s fair; it isn’t bad. It’s well-organised; the grammar is mostly as it should be, and the subject of why he wants to enter the programme is well covered. It doesn’t grab our attention and make us want to read more though. In short, this is an introductory paragraph that could go either way.

Although not shown here, the rest of this statement turned out pretty good. The writer found his flow and dived into the subject with an appropriate amount of detail, good grammar and a few memorable points. The strength of his body paragraphs and conclusion made up for his less-than-exceptional introduction, and that’s okay.

We included this sample to show that sometimes you get off to a bit of a slow start and can still finish well. It’s better to start strong, but introductions can be tough. As long as the intro isn’t bad and you make up for the average intro in your body paragraphs and conclusion, you’ll usually be okay.

Image of a slightly smiling face emoji

A Few Final Notes

hile it’s certainly true that grades and work experience are important when applying to uni to work on your MPharm, your pharmacy personal statement is equally important. Universities get huge volumes of applications for their pharmacy programmes. They get so many applications that many of them have a “Due to the large volume of applications we receive…” disclaimer on their websites.

Your personal statement is where you can be creative and ensure your essay stands out from the rest. Be sure you check out the formatting requirements ahead of time and stick to them exactly.

Also, make sure you read the personal statement prompt well and understand it before you start writing. Finally, make sure you edit your paper several times before submitting it.

Have a friend, loved one, mentor or former professor look over it as well. Where possible, get a  reputable online personal statement review service to help ( me shamelessly plugging in our services page lol )  Sometimes, a fresh set of eyes can find mistakes your own eyes can’t.

Be honest and thorough in your response to the prompt, and never try to plagiarise someone else’s work. It never works. It helps to  run a plagiarism checker  on your final draft- just to be sure!

Finally, be sure you stick to the length requirements. If the statement is supposed to be between 500 and 750 words, make sure that’s what it is. Don’t stop at 490 words and assume it will be enough, and don’t go over an extra 50 words and assume the admissions team will be okay with it. These people read a lot of personal statements; they set a maximum word count for a reason.

Most importantly, do your best, and fill your personal statement with passion. If an admissions team can tell that you’re passionate about your education and your subsequent career in pharmacy, you’ve already won half the battle.

13 Best Books for Nursing Students to Read- Reviewed

5 Best MCAT Prep Books, According to Med Students

5 Best MCAT Prep Courses, According to Med Students

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Advertise With Us

Advertising Disclosure

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

As an Amazon Associate (and a participant of other affiliate programs), this site earns from qualifying purchases.

© 2024 TheCollegeApplication.com, a Delicto Holdings Company | All Rights Reserved

  • Personal Statements
  • Pharmacy Personal Statement

Pharmacy Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

Most people see science as something that is done locked away in the ivory tower of the laboratory, but for pharmacists, science couldn’t be more practical, everyday and public facing. This is what attracts me to the field of pharmacy; seeing the tangible benefits of my work, helping my community and protecting the health of those around me. I love science, but I also love working with people, and a career as a professional pharmacist would allow me to do both.

The importance of pharmacy cannot be overestimated. It is no exaggeration to state that Louis Pasteur, with his ground-breaking work on what causes infection led to knowledge that has saved millions of lives. Yet sadly the advances made by scientists who developed antibiotics in the 1940s and 1950s are being eroded by the excessive and casual prescribing of these drugs, resulting in the rise of so called super bugs such as MRSA. I believe that the challenges facing the field of pharmacy in the coming years will be as great as those at the end of the 19 th century, and I want to play my part in tackling those challenges.

I have always has an interest and an aptitude for science at school, both in formal lessons and in extra curricular activities. I was chairman of the school science club in my lower sixth year and organised trips to the world class Unilever research and development facility at Port Sunlight, the petrochemical labs at Ellesmere Port and the Bristol Myers Squibb medical research centre in Moreton. This summer I was proud to be selected for the Nuffield Science Bursary Scheme run by Bristol Myers Squibb, which allowed A-level students to undertake science projects at this industry-leading facility during the summer holidays.

I believe in taking science out of the lab and making it relevant to real people in their everyday lives. To gain some experience I have volunteered in a large local nursing home, spending time with the residents explaining how their drugs work and why they are taking them. This has involved researching the various drugs and their actions and finding ways to explain this in simple terms to elderly people. The home has told me that the residents are now less resistant to taking their drugs and feel better about the treatments they are on.

I have also been fortunate in securing a Saturday job at the local Sainsbury’s supermarket, where I have put in regular and reliable shifts over the past twelve months. Here I made a point of befriending the in-store pharmacist, who has become my mentor in pursuing my career goal. Although I do not work in this section, he has kindly allowed me to spend time with him, outside of my working hours, to see for myself the work that he does and the crucial role that he plays in the treatment chain between GP and patient.

I believe that I have the skills and understanding, interests and application required to make a good candidate for a pharmacy course at university. I look forward to playing my part in protecting and enhancing the health and wellbeing of my community.  

Applytouni _guides _button

University Guides

  • Accommodation
  • + much more!

Sign up for news & advice about applying to uni

  • Universities
  • Fees & Finance
  • For Parents
  • International Students
  • Terms and Conditions

Apply to Uni logo

Health Professions Advising

Pre-health advising.

  • Health Professions Resources

Personal Statements

Health Professions Advising CBB 203/205 (Second Floor) E: [email protected]

Schedule a Health Professions Advising Appointment

Mailing Address: University of Houston ATTN: Health Professions Advising Center University Classroom & Business Building Room 215 4242 Martin Luther King Boulevard Houston, TX 77204 Google Maps

uh-phac-personal-statement-handout-7.2020_page_1.png

Although most applicants focus on GPA and test-scores, the personal statement is a very important component of your application and should be carefully composed. This is your opportunity to highlight things about yourself that may not be mentioned in other sections of your application and to distinguish yourself from other applicants.

You should have several different people objectively read your personal statement and provide constructive feedback. In addition to the Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC) , your letter writers are often a great option. There are also resources on campus that can assist you, such as the UH Writing Center , University Career Services , and your major advisor. Consider the feedback you receive carefully, but be sure that the personal statement is still written in your voice!

Below we have outlined some advice and general guidelines to consider while writing your personal statement. Keep in mind that these recommendations are not restricted to medical/dental applications, but can be applied while writing essays for any healthcare professional program.

  • See also UH University Career Services Personal Statement Tips
  • Sign up for the UH Writing Center Personal Statement Workshops

Types of Prompts

Before beginning your personal statement, it is important you carefully review the specific question (or prompt) that is being asked and the character-limit, as there can be distinct differences between the application services.

TMDSAS ( 5000 characters ):

  • Explain your motivation to seek a career in medicine. You are asked to include the value of your experiences that prepare you to be a physician.
  • Explain your motivation to seek a career in dentistry. You are asked to discuss your philosophy of the dental profession and indicate your goals relevant to the profession.
  • Personal Characteristics Essay - Learning from others is enhanced in educational settings that include individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Please describe your personal characteristics (background, talents, skills, etc.) or experiences that would add to the educational experience of others. The personal characteristics essay is required to all applicants and limited to 2500 characters, including spaces.
  • Optional Essay – The optional essay is an opportunity to provide the admissions committee(s) with a broader picture of who you are as an applicant. The essay is optional, however, you are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. Consider briefly discussing any unique circumstances or life experiences that are relevant to your application which have not previously been presented. Optional Essay is limited to 2500 characters, including spaces.

AMCAS ( 5300 characters ):

  • Why have you selected the field of medicine?
  • What motivates you to learn more about medicine?
  • What do you want medical schools to know about you that has not been disclosed in other sections of the application?

AACOMAS ( 5300 characters ):

  • What motivates you to learn more about osteopathic medicine?

AADSAS ( 4500 characters ):

  • Explain a defining moment that helped steer you toward a career in dentistry. Consider using that moment as the focal point of your essay.
  • Be colorful, positive, imaginative and personal when discussing why you are a good candidate for dental school. Ask yourself—in a pile of 100 applications, would I enjoy reading my statement? Be sure to convey your passion for dentistry in your statement.
  • Be yourself.  Don’t use jargon, clichés or big phrases that you would not use in daily conversation. Remember, dental schools want to know about the real you.
  • Be original and thoughtful: Discuss how you would contribute to the profession and patient care, all of which will help you stand out from other applicants.

AACPMAS (4500 characters):

  • State below why you are interested in becoming a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Provide information about your development for a career in Podiatric Medicine

CASPA (5000 characters):

  • In the space provided write a brief statement expressing your motivation or desire to become a physician assistant.

OptomCAS (4500 characters) :

Essays can be customized for each individual Optometry program.  Most Optometry schools include this as their main essay question:

  • Please describe what inspires your decision for becoming an optometrist, including your preparation for training in this profession, your aptitude and motivation, the basis for your interest in optometry, and your future career.

OTCAS (no character limit):

  • Your Personal Statement should address why you selected OT as a career and how an Occupational Therapy degree relates to your immediate and long-term professional goals. Describe how your personal, educational, and professional background will help you achieve your goals.

PTCAS (4500 characters):

  • Prompt: Every person has a story that has led them to a career. Since there are a variety of health professions that "help" others, please go beyond your initial interaction or experiences with physical therapy and share the deeper story that has confirmed your decision to specifically pursue physical therapy as your career.

PharmCAS (4500 characters):

  • Your Personal Essay should address why you selected pharmacy as a career. How the Doctor of Pharmacy degree relates to your immediate and long-term professional goals. You should describe how your personal, educational, and professional background will help you achieve your goals.

VMCAS (1000 characters):

  • There are many career choices within the veterinary What are your future career goals and why?
  • In what ways do veterinarians contribute to society and what do you hope to contribute?
  • Consider the breadth of society which veterinarians What attributes do you believe are essential to be successful within the veterinary profession? Of these attributes, which do you possess and how have you demonstrated these in the past?

When should I start writing?

You should begin working on your personal statement early in the spring semester prior to your intended application year and submitting your application materials to HPAC (if applicable).  Remember that the people who are helping you with your statement will need time to review it and you will need time to work through multiple drafts before submission.  In addition, some of your letter writers may want to see a copy of your personal statement before they write your letter, so you should strive to have a competent draft by mid-March.

What should be included?

It is important to treat the personal statement as an answer to a question (i.e., the prompt), rather than the opportunity to flex your creative writing muscles. Indeed, most applicants are STEM majors without much experience in creative writing; therefore, it is recommended that you avoid using the essay to practice your creative writing skills and stick to simply addressing the prompt in a direct, concise way. Some questions you may want to consider while planning your essay are:

  • Why have you selected the field of medicine, dentistry, or other health profession?
  • What motivates you to learn more about medicine, dentistry, or other health profession?
  • How have you demonstrated your interest and commitment to your decision?
  • What experiences have allowed you to develop the skills necessary to be successful in this program and to become an effective physician, dentist, PA, etc.?
  • Did you have any exposure to role models who influenced your decision? Which of their attributes inspired you?
  • Are your perceptions of this profession realistic?
  • What are your professional goals?
  • Is there anything you wish for your chosen health professional schools to know about you that has not been disclosed in other sections of the application?

Depending on the nature of the prompt, you may also wish to include information such as:

  • Unique hardships, challenges, or obstacles that may have influenced your educational pursuits.
  • Commentary on significant fluctuations in your academic record that are not explained elsewhere in your application.

What should NOT be included?

  • Avoid clichés and over-using/mis-using terms : How many times do you think admissions committees have read the phrase, “I want to become a physician because I like science and I want to help people”? Similarly, words like empathy and passion are, while applicable, can become empty in meaning when overused or misused. Consider exemplifying these terms, rather than simply stating them.
  • Avoid unnecessary drama: While you may feel compelled to "hook" the reader with a dramatic opening to your statement, doing so may detract from the overall purpose (i.e., describing your decision to pursue medicine/dentistry) and may induce many an eye-roll by committee members.
  • Avoid being vague : "[Insert experience] was challenging and rewarding." What does that mean? Be specific about what was impactful and how it affected you.
  • Avoid brash decision-making :  Your decision to become a doctor/dentist should be the result of a series of thoughtful, conscious, and reflective decisions. NOT an instantaneous realization or epiphany. Similarly, you have not “always known” that you want to be a physician/dentist. No one is "born to be a doctor." Nothing is innate, you have to work for it.
  • Avoid excuses :  In general, there are better uses for your personal statement than explaining away and justifying poor grades, incidents of misconduct, etc. Indeed, TMDSAS offers additional essays and opportunities to discuss these issues. However, if you choose to address these subjects, be sure to focus on what you have learned from those incidents and how your experiences have made you a stronger person.  Always accept responsibility and avoid blaming anyone else for your decisions or mistakes.
  • Avoid restating your resume or activities section :  Choose ONE or TWO significant and distinguishing experiences to elaborate upon when outline the reasons behind your decision to pursue a career in healthcare. There is no need to narrate completely your 4+ years of college or carefully detail your activities from year to year; indeed, there are other sections in the application where you can detail your experiences and what you learned from each.
  • Avoid grandiosity :  Claiming that you plan to cure cancer (or HIV, or healthcare disparities, or anything else) shows a grave lack of understanding of whatever problem you are planning to solve. Similarly, avoid “I know what it is like to be a physician/dentist from [shadowing/clinical volunteer experience].”  No, you do not.  That is precisely why you are hoping to go to medical/dental school.
  • Avoid inflammatory or controversial topics :  You do not know the values, beliefs, and background of the committee member reading your essay.  For these reasons, you are advised to avoid making any strong statements regarding politics, religion, and other polarizing topics.  Be extremely cautious to avoid expressing any views that could be construed as derogatory to any group.  Additionally, your beliefs are not the only “correct” beliefs. 
  • Do not lie :  Honesty and ethical behavior are the hallmarks of being a healthcare professional. Do not include details anywhere in your application or essay that you are not prepared to talk about or that are simply untrue.

Additional Recommendations

  • Use simple formatting : Avoid the use of bullet-points, italics, and symbols.
  • Read your statement aloud : As you draft your statement, reading what you have written aloud can help you determine whether your writing "flows" well and is an easy read for a reviewer.
  • Pharmacy School

Winning Pharmacy Residency Statement Examples

Pharmacy Residency Personal Statement Examples

If you’re in pharmacy school and planning you’re future, you know that you don’t need a residency or pharmacy residency personal statement examples to be a licensed pharmacist. That’s one advantage pharmacy school grads have over medical school grads, who need to do a minimum one year of residency before they can take the USMLE Step 3 . But you also know that doing one or two post-graduate years of a pharmacy residency will increase your chances of getting into other sectors of the industry among many more benefits, which we’ll explore later. If you are thinking about doing a pharmacy residency, we have what you need. You will need to submit an online application, but don’t use your old pharmacy school personal statement . We’ll help you write a new one and explain a little about how to apply to pharmacy residency programs in the US and Canada. 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 15 min read

Should you pursue a pharmacy residency.

Maybe you have your mind set on going into retail pharmacy; there's nothing wrong with that, but there are some things you should know about the retail pharmacy landscape. Over 60% of the pharmacists practicing in the US work in retail pharmacies as part of giant chains like Walgreens and CVS.

However, as big box stores and other retail chains introduce pharmacies into their stores, small, independent pharmacies, are being pushed out. What’s more, many of these giant retail pharmacies are closing stores. If that weren’t enough, labor statistics predict sluggish job growth in the retail pharmacy sector over the next five years, so there’s that too.

We say all this to encourage you to think about the value of a pharmacy residency, and how applying to any number of the pharmacy residency programs in the US or Canada can give you a head-start on your career. One study noted that a pharmacy residency leads to the development of research, leadership and clinical skills in those who complete the program, far beyond what is taught in pharmacy school.

Want to know how to avoid residency application red flags? Watch this video:

Types of Pharmacy Residencies

If you’re not sure about what type of pharmacy you want to go into, we’ll explain a little about the three main ones in both the US and Canada, which are related to the variety of roles a pharmacist can fill. They include:

  • Academic-based residencies (at universities and medical schools)
  • Hospital-based residencies
  • Industry-based residencies

But one unique aspect of pharmacy residencies is that you can go directly into the private sector and learn within the environment you’ll most likely be working at after you finish, so you don’t have to go learning how to find a job after residency .

You can do these residencies at an accredited pharmacy school or university that confers the entry-level PharmD degree. According to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), there are close to 2400 different residency programs in the US. In Canada, there are much fewer; only 30 programs in total offered by schools such as the University of Toronto , the University of British Columbia , Dalhousie University, and Laval University.

Academic-based residency programs are good places to do residencies because you have a variety of specializations, a diverse teaching curriculum, and a lot of research opportunities. So, even though we repeat it a lot, you need to research each program carefully to find one that matches your research interests and career goals. For example, the University of Toronto has two programs:

  • Hospital Pharmacy Residency
  • Industrial Pharmacy Residency

Hospital-Based Pharmacy Residency

A hospital-based pharmacy residency does for you what a family medicine residency and an internal medicine residency does for medical students: it puts you in the middle of a clinical environment where you have direct patient experience, the opportunity to train with exemplary faculty mentors, and the chance to be a part of or lead a healthcare team. This is the best choice for you, if you see yourself staying in healthcare, whether it be a hospital, clinic or some other medical environment.

Of course, every hospital-based residency will offer you different opportunities and clinical settings. The teaching curriculum can have a specific focus or have unique electives that you can choose based on your own goals and interests, which is why it bears repeating that you need to examine what each program offers to make sure it's right for you.

Industrial-Based Pharmacy Residency

This type of pharmacy residency is a good option if you are interested in research and being part of the development of new treatments and medications. But it involves so much more. An industry-based pharmacy residency gives you the chance to learn marketable skills that are specific to the global pharmaceutical industry, such as learning about international pharmaceutical markets, national regulatory frameworks and how to create new drugs according to these frameworks.

If you’ve made the decision to do a pharmacy residency (good choice, by the way), this will be a short run-down of how to apply, even though you may be familiar with the process.

Here is where the paths of pharmacy grads and med school grads converge, as students from pharmacy schools in the US and pharmacy schools in Canada must apply to pharmacy residency programs through centralized residency match services; the Pharmacy Online Residency Centralized Application Service ( PhORCAS ) in the US; the Pharmacy Residency Application and Matching Service ( PRAMS ) in Canada. However, you do not need PARMS to apply directly to academic-based programs; you can apply to directly to the school. PARMS is for hospital-based residencies.

These programs work much in the same way as other residency match services , such as ERAS and the NRMP in the US; and CaRMS in Canada. You gather your specific application materials for each service, choose your programs (academic, hospital, or industry) and send your application. You will be notified of your candidacy status by the institution you applied to and run the same gamut as a med school grad would to enter a residency: application, interview(s) (if you qualify), decision.

Here are some of the general pharmacy residency requirements for each country:

Canadian Pharmacy Residency Requirements

  • Be registered with the Canadian Pharmacy Residency Board (CPRB)
  • Have graduated from a pharmacy school program accredited by the Canadian Council for the Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP)
  • Be a Canadian citizen or have legal permission to work and live in Canada
  • Have a licence to practice pharmacy or be in the process of obtaining their licence with the PEBC Qualifying Examination – Part I Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) and Part II Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)

These are the base requirements, but each program, depending on the type of residency you want to enter, may have additional ones that applicants must meet, which can vary from:

  • Being registered with the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists
  • Being a registered student with the university or institution offering the residency
  • Never being expelled from any other Canadian residency program

US Pharmacy Residency Requirements

The residency system for graduates from pharmacy schools in the US has both general and program-specific requirements. The PhORCAS application service, which is administered by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) functions similar to other residency match services in the US and organizes all residency applications to match them to the various residency programs offered throughout the country.

General Requirements

  • Currently holding or in the process of receiving a licence (where, depends on program)
  • Graduated from an ACPE-accredited pharmacy school
  • Hold a PharmD degree
  • Be a US citizen or have permanent resident status

To apply for a pharmacy residency through PhORCAS, you must submit the following:

  • Personal information
  • Academic history (pharmacy and undergraduate schools)
  • Extracurriculars
  • Residency CV
  • Residency personal statement or residency letter of intent
  • Rank order list
  • Letters of recommendation

These are the main components of the PhORCAS application, but different residency programs will have their own requirements, so students need to ensure they meet all their programs requirements and submit any supplemental materials either through PhORCAS or to the program directly.

You will only need a pharmacy residency personal statement if you are applying to an academic or hospital-based residency. The industry-based residencies usually only ask you for a research proposal or letter of intent - some academic programs ask for a letter of intent as well - so we’ll show you examples of what to include in your personal statement for academic and hospital-based residencies.

You’ve probably written one or two personal statements in the past, and, as we hear from many of our students, it is not easy. While it may seem like a no-brainer to you on why you want to enter a residency, the goal is to articulate and communicate that desire in 600 words or less (PARMS personal statements must not exceed 600 words) in a professional and well-written statement.

Fortunately, both PhORCAS and PARMS offer you advice and guidelines about what to write, but here we’ll do something a little different. We’ll use the same strategies we used with BeMo students who applied to pharmacy residencies (and got in!) and break-down how to construct your own personal statement with your own experiences, words, and goals.

PhORCAS and PARMS suggest the following, which is good advice, but you need something more personalized and specific, which is what we’ll do with the proceeding pharmacy residency personal statement examples.

  • What are you looking for most in a residency program?
  • Why should we choose you?
  • What are you goals and research interests?
  • What do you hope to gain from our residency program?

These are the questions you have to answer, but how do you write it in a way that conveys your enthusiasm, knowledge, and writing skills? Keep reading to learn how to infuse paragraph with style and verve so you get into the residency of your choice.

Writing your Pharmacy Residency Personal Statement

All good personal statements tell a story. But great ones reveal a complex, multi-faceted, constantly evolving human being behind them who has experienced challenges in life, overcome them and has the potential to do great things.

However, a pharmacy residency personal statement has to show a little more. Depending on the type of pharmacist you want to be (industry or healthcare-based), you may have to adjust your statement to reflect the unique skill sets you have to excel in that particular industry sector. 

If you are applying to an industry residency, you won’t have a lot of direct patient experience or any clinical rotations, so it makes no sense to talk about how you want to interact with patients. Instead, it is mostly your research capabilities, experiences in the lab, and project goals that will make you an attractive applicant to an industry-based residency.

If you are applying for a hospital-based residency, here is where you would highlight previous direct patient experiences, shadowing, cross-collaboration with various teams, and your past makes more sense to talk about here.

This is why we constantly tell our students to, “show, don’t tell”, as a simple reminder to let them know that showing what you did during the time leading up to a pharmacy residency (or whatever professional goal you are trying to achieve) and how you developed into the resilient, dedicated and passionate individual that you are matters more than reciting your resume or academic achievements.

Take these two opening paragraphs for a pharmacy residency personal statement:

Pharmacy Residency Personal Statement Example Opening #1

I am excited to apply for the Pharmacy Residency Program as it represents an invaluable opportunity for my professional development and growth. I am eager to further enhance my clinical skills, expand my knowledge base, and contribute to the field of pharmacy. Pharmacy residency programs provide a unique learning experience that goes beyond what is obtained during pharmacy school. The chance to work closely with experienced preceptors, engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, and rotate through various clinical settings is unparalleled.

Pharmacy Residency Personal Statement Example Opening #2

I can think of no greater fear-inducing event than struggling to breathe. I woke up like that one morning. I had the symptoms of a cold – coughing, sore throat, congestion – and my doctor had prescribed antibiotics. But the day after I started them, I woke up breathless. Fortunately, I was not alone. My partner called an ambulance, because I couldn’t speak. The paramedics came and gave me oxygen. With each complete breath, I calmed down. I was so soothed by the oxygen that I started to cry from how good it felt to breathe again.

Now, can you tell the differences between the two?

The first sample conveys no humanity and feels like the rote, lifeless copy written in a brochure. It gives no detail and says nothing important or new. But the second example grabs our attention right away by relating to us through a universal fear (not being able to breathe) and setting us up to find out what happens next.

The above samples are both fictional, but then the challenge becomes, what is something unique to you and your experience that you can talk about? Remember, it’s a “personal” statement, so don’t be afraid to talk about setbacks, failures, tragedies but always with an eye toward how that experience has prepared you for now.

To do this with a full example, we’ll first create an applicant profile. In this profile, we’ll give a short autobiographical sketch of the applicant, and then use that information in the provided pharmacy residency personal statement example. We’ll also address the statement to a real pharmacy residency program in either the US or Canada. When you read the statement, you’ll see bold text that explains how the information from the profile is being used, so you get an idea of how to do it on your own.

Every time I’ve seen someone brought back to life by Narcan, I think about the one life it did not save. Here you are not only relating the experience, but relating how it affected you. Remember to keep that cause-and-effect formula throughout your writing. You also want to build some mystery and reveal only a few details, but be selective. The more you withhold, the more your reader will want to continue. I first heard of naloxone in an intro to biochemistry class. My professor explained the chemistry of the drug, but also added a tragic aside: the drug’s creator, Dr. Jack Fishman, lost his step-son, Jonathan to an overdose, even though Narcan existed at the time, only, it was not readily available. You can usually wait until the second or third paragraph to mention something academic, but CAMH has a 300-word limit for its personal essay, so we are making an exception. But, again, remember that anything academic or professional you mention has to relate back to something personal, some change in you.

Hearing that was sobering. My professor said a story like that should motivate us to create drugs that would save lives, but to remember not to always expect miracles, even with a miracle drug like Narcan. I took that as a challenge to learn all I could about addiction, drug policy, harm reduction, the neuroscience behind chemical dependencies and the prevalence of co-occurring disorders, where addiction and mental illness meet. This is where you make the connection to your experience, and mention how learning this knowledge (whatever it may be) put you on the path that you are on now and what you did to show your commitment.

I did a six-month internship at the Ontario Harn Reduction Network and got the opportunity to meet and learn from Drug Culture Consultants who had lived with substance use problems. Hearing about all the obstacles they faced to getting Narcan or other treatment options made me realize that pharmaceutical companies and regulatory agencies alone should not be the ones deciding drug policy. They should collaborate with public health authorities and other non-profits who work directly with affected population groups who would benefit most. This section is another “stepping stone” to something you want to say about your goals and desires and what motivates you, but also demonstrates you have an informed opinion about an important issue. That’s what interests me about the CAMH; the advocacy on behalf of people with substance use and mental health disorders and all the research done here on their behalf. Here, at the end, is where you can connect your mission to the program’s and make your case for why you are a good fit for the program.

CAMH hosts one of the most revered pharmacogenetics research centers in Canada, which is an area of pharmacology I would like to explore further, as it holds promise to create new drugs to treat substance use and mental health disorders with medication made specifically for them . Given the opportunity, I am confident that I will be able to make a meaningful impact and contribute to CAMH's mission of transforming lives through leading-edge research, comprehensive care, and innovative treatments.

Applicant Profile #2

Name: Grace Chao

Education: Touro College of Pharmacy, PharmD 

Grace was first interested in the tech sector, and majored in computer science. But she added biology as a minor in her second year because of the recommendation of a professor and has been interested in the intersection of medicine and information technology ever since. She went to pharmacy school in order to learn more about the medication that she, as someone with ADHD, takes on a regular basis and whether information technology can improve medication delivery systems in major hospitals.

Residency Program: Mount Sinai Brooklyn

Pharmacy Residency Personal Statement Example #2

I was only fourteen when I was diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and it made me scared. Here you are being vulnerable and open about a personal issue, which is exactly the kind of thing personal statements are for; don’t be afraid to open up and mention an obstacle, setback or challenge, so long as you talk about its effects on you (cause-effect). I didn’t know what it was and my doctor’s explanations were confusing. It made me scared because I loved school and I was afraid that I might not be able to keep going to school the way I was used to. My doctor prescribed medication and it was when our pharmacist, Mr. Chee, talked to me about my ADHD that I finally felt better.

Mr. Chee took the time to explain the effects of the prescribed medication and patiently discussed the potential side effects, along with strategies to mitigate them. This compassionate approach is something that I never forgot and it proved pivotal later on in my career, when I was deciding what to do after I graduated. The “inciting incident” can come in any time in your narrative, but the way you talk about it can vary. You can be explicit and say “this person made me decide to be a pharmacist” or in a more implied way, like here.

There are various requirements for each program, as is standard for residency applications. The PhORCAS system in the US is similar to the AMCAS medical school application service, in that it sets the word limit to 600 words. In Canada, as evidenced by the Center for Addiction and Mental Health, each program has its own letter and length requirements. 

It depends on the program. Some may ask for a personal statement, while others ask for a statement of interest more focused on your research history and goals within the residency. 

There are dozens of different residencies for pharmacy school graduates that are reflective of all the versatility of the pharmacy profession. In the US, there are many more opportunities, given there are so many pharmacy schools in the US, so applicants can apply to a community clinic residency, outpatient or drug rehabilitation center residency, or a traditional hospital-based residency, to name a few. 

It depends on your interests and where you see yourself in ten years. Do you want to create new medications? Do you want to continue researching? Do you want to go practice at a public hospital? Do you want to enter your own private practice? These are the questions you have to answer to choose which residency is best for you. 

Again, each program has its own requirements, but they typically ask you to explain why you want to enter this program, and this specific residency. Talk about your experiences in pharmacy school and how they helped influence your decision to pursue a residency, as it is an optional move and not required to receive a pharmacy license. 

Do not write your entire life story or dwell too long on certain experiences. Keep the narrative moving forward and do not use unprofessional language or talk negatively of others, including other healthcare professions. 

There is objective best when it comes to a pharmacy, or any specialty, residency program. The “best” program for you is one that coincides with your research interests, professional goals, and educational background. 

No. AI cannot write in detail about your experiences, your emotions, and what you’ve done to prepare yourself for this residency. An AI-generated personal statement is easy to spot because it will generate a generic, incoherent repetitive mess that will surely get you rejected before the rest of your application is viewed. 

Want more free tips? Subscribe to our channels for more free and useful content!

Apple Podcasts

Like our blog? Write for us ! >>

Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions, get started now.

Talk to one of our admissions experts

Our site uses cookies. By using our website, you agree with our cookie policy .

FREE Training Webinar: 

How to make your residency application stand out, (and avoid the top 5 reasons most applicants don't match their top choice program).

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to FDA Search
  • Skip to in this section menu
  • Skip to footer links

U.S. flag

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

  •   Search
  •   Menu
  • News & Events
  • FDA Newsroom
  • Press Announcements

FDA Approves First Treatment for Patients with Liver Scarring Due to Fatty Liver Disease

FDA News Release

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Rezdiffra (resmetirom) for the treatment of adults with noncirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with moderate to advanced liver scarring (fibrosis), to be used along with diet and exercise. 

“Previously, patients with NASH who also have notable liver scarring did not have a medication that could directly address their liver damage,” said Nikolay Nikolov, M.D., acting director of the Office of Immunology and Inflammation in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Today’s approval of Rezdiffra will, for the first time, provide a treatment option for these patients, in addition to diet and exercise.” 

NASH is a result of the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease where liver inflammation, over time, can lead to liver scarring and liver dysfunction. NASH is often associated with other health problems such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. By at least one estimate, approximately 6-8 million people in the U.S. have NASH with moderate to advanced liver scarring, with that number expected to increase. Rezdiffra is a partial activator of a thyroid hormone receptor; activation of this receptor by Rezdiffra in the liver reduces liver fat accumulation. 

The safety and efficacy of Rezdiffra was evaluated based on an analysis of a surrogate endpoint at month 12 in a 54-month, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. The surrogate endpoint measured the extent of liver inflammation and scarring. The sponsor is required to conduct a postapproval study to verify and describe Rezdiffra’s clinical benefit, which will be done through completing the same 54-month study, which is still ongoing. To enroll in the trial, patients needed to have a liver biopsy showing inflammation due to NASH with moderate or advanced liver scarring. In the trial, 888 subjects were randomly assigned to receive one of the following: placebo (294 subjects); 80 milligrams of Rezdiffra (298 subjects); or 100 milligrams of Rezdiffra (296 subjects); once daily, in addition to standard care for NASH, which includes counseling for healthy diet and exercise. 

At 12 months, liver biopsies showed that a greater proportion of subjects who were treated with Rezdiffra achieved NASH resolution or an improvement in liver scarring as compared with those who received the placebo. A total of 26% to 27% of subjects who received 80 milligrams of Rezdiffra and 24% to 36% of subjects who received 100 milligrams of Rezdiffra experienced NASH resolution and no worsening of liver scarring, compared to 9% to 13% of those who received placebo and counseling on diet and exercise. The range of responses reflects different pathologists’ readings. In addition, a total of 23% of subjects who received 80 milligrams of Rezdiffra and 24% to 28% of subjects who received 100 milligrams of Rezdiffra experienced an improvement in liver scarring and no worsening of NASH, compared to 13% to 15% of those who received placebo, depending on each pathologist’s readings. Demonstration of these changes in a proportion of patients after just one year of treatment is notable, as the disease typically progresses slowly with a majority of patients taking years or even decades to show progression.

The most common side effects of Rezdiffra included diarrhea and nausea. Rezdiffra comes with certain warnings and precautions, such as drug-induced liver toxicity and gallbladder-related side effects. 

Use of Rezdiffra should be avoided in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Patients should stop using Rezdiffra if they develop signs or symptoms of worsening liver function while on Rezdiffra treatment. 

Using Rezdiffra at the same time as certain other drugs, in particular statins for lowering cholesterol, may result in potentially significant drug interactions. Health care providers should refer to the full prescribing information  for additional information on these potentially significant drug interactions with Rezdiffra, recommended dosage and administration modifications. 

The FDA approved Rezdiffra under the accelerated approval pathway, which allows for earlier approval of drugs that treat serious conditions and address an unmet medical need, based on a surrogate or intermediate clinical endpoint that is reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit. The required aforementioned 54-month study, which is ongoing, will assess clinical benefit after 54 months of Rezdiffra treatment. 

Rezdiffra received Breakthrough Therapy, Fast Track and Priority Review designations for this indication. 

The FDA granted the approval of Rezdiffra to Madrigal Pharmaceuticals.

Related Information

  • NIH: Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) & NASH

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

  • Download PDF
  • Share X Facebook Email LinkedIn
  • Permissions

Hyperhidrosis and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Among Adolescents

  • 1 Israel Defense Forces Medical Corps, Ramat Gan, Israel
  • 2 Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
  • 3 Department of Pediatrics B, Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel
  • 4 Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
  • 5 Pediatric Dermatology Unit, Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, Israel
  • 6 Department of Military Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel

Primary focal hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating and occurs in 1% of the Israel population to 4.8% of the US population. 1 , 2 Hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) are complex noninflammatory connective-tissue disorders manifested by joint hypermobility, musculoskeletal symptoms, and autonomic dysregulation. While autonomic dysregulation may play a role in the pathophysiological processes of hyperhidrosis and HSD or hEDS, 1 , 3 data on the association between them are scarce. 4 We assessed the association between hyperhidrosis and HSD or hEDS in a nationwide study.

Read More About

Zloof Y , Derazne E , Braun M, et al. Hyperhidrosis and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Among Adolescents. JAMA Dermatol. Published online March 27, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.0100

Manage citations:

© 2024

Artificial Intelligence Resource Center

Dermatology in JAMA : Read the Latest

Browse and subscribe to JAMA Network podcasts!

Others Also Liked

Select your interests.

Customize your JAMA Network experience by selecting one or more topics from the list below.

  • Academic Medicine
  • Acid Base, Electrolytes, Fluids
  • Allergy and Clinical Immunology
  • American Indian or Alaska Natives
  • Anesthesiology
  • Anticoagulation
  • Art and Images in Psychiatry
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Assisted Reproduction
  • Bleeding and Transfusion
  • Caring for the Critically Ill Patient
  • Challenges in Clinical Electrocardiography
  • Climate and Health
  • Climate Change
  • Clinical Challenge
  • Clinical Decision Support
  • Clinical Implications of Basic Neuroscience
  • Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology
  • Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  • Consensus Statements
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19)
  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Cultural Competency
  • Dental Medicine
  • Dermatology
  • Diabetes and Endocrinology
  • Diagnostic Test Interpretation
  • Drug Development
  • Electronic Health Records
  • Emergency Medicine
  • End of Life, Hospice, Palliative Care
  • Environmental Health
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
  • Facial Plastic Surgery
  • Gastroenterology and Hepatology
  • Genetics and Genomics
  • Genomics and Precision Health
  • Global Health
  • Guide to Statistics and Methods
  • Hair Disorders
  • Health Care Delivery Models
  • Health Care Economics, Insurance, Payment
  • Health Care Quality
  • Health Care Reform
  • Health Care Safety
  • Health Care Workforce
  • Health Disparities
  • Health Inequities
  • Health Policy
  • Health Systems Science
  • History of Medicine
  • Hypertension
  • Images in Neurology
  • Implementation Science
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Innovations in Health Care Delivery
  • JAMA Infographic
  • Law and Medicine
  • Leading Change
  • Less is More
  • LGBTQIA Medicine
  • Lifestyle Behaviors
  • Medical Coding
  • Medical Devices and Equipment
  • Medical Education
  • Medical Education and Training
  • Medical Journals and Publishing
  • Mobile Health and Telemedicine
  • Narrative Medicine
  • Neuroscience and Psychiatry
  • Notable Notes
  • Nutrition, Obesity, Exercise
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Occupational Health
  • Ophthalmology
  • Orthopedics
  • Otolaryngology
  • Pain Medicine
  • Palliative Care
  • Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
  • Patient Care
  • Patient Information
  • Performance Improvement
  • Performance Measures
  • Perioperative Care and Consultation
  • Pharmacoeconomics
  • Pharmacoepidemiology
  • Pharmacogenetics
  • Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology
  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
  • Physical Therapy
  • Physician Leadership
  • Population Health
  • Primary Care
  • Professional Well-being
  • Professionalism
  • Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
  • Public Health
  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Regulatory Agencies
  • Reproductive Health
  • Research, Methods, Statistics
  • Resuscitation
  • Rheumatology
  • Risk Management
  • Scientific Discovery and the Future of Medicine
  • Shared Decision Making and Communication
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Sports Medicine
  • Stem Cell Transplantation
  • Substance Use and Addiction Medicine
  • Surgical Innovation
  • Surgical Pearls
  • Teachable Moment
  • Technology and Finance
  • The Art of JAMA
  • The Arts and Medicine
  • The Rational Clinical Examination
  • Tobacco and e-Cigarettes
  • Translational Medicine
  • Trauma and Injury
  • Treatment Adherence
  • Ultrasonography
  • Users' Guide to the Medical Literature
  • Vaccination
  • Venous Thromboembolism
  • Veterans Health
  • Women's Health
  • Workflow and Process
  • Wound Care, Infection, Healing
  • Register for email alerts with links to free full-text articles
  • Access PDFs of free articles
  • Manage your interests
  • Save searches and receive search alerts

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Clearing Universities & Courses

Clearing advice.

Recommended Clearing Universities

Popular Course Categories

Course search & discover.

Start the search for your uni. Filter from hundreds of universities based on your preferences.

Search by Type

Search by region.

Recommended Universities

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

University Academy 92, UA92

North West England · 100% Recommended

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

City, University of London

London (Greater) · 92% Recommended

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Ravensbourne University London

London (Greater) · 88% Recommended

Search Open Days

What's new at Uni Compare

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Kingston University

Kingston Uni has been awarded a Gold Teaching Excellence Framework ranking (2023)

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

University of Brighton

Explore a uni defined by inclusivity, sustainability, creativity and partnership

Ranking Categories

Regional rankings.

More Rankings

Top 100 Universities

Taken from 65,000+ data points from students attending university to help future generations

About our Rankings

Discover university rankings devised from data collected from current students.

Guide Categories

Advice categories, recommended articles, popular statement examples, statement advice.

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

What to include in a Personal Statement

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Personal Statement Tips

Personal statement examples pharmacy personal statements.

Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto pharmacy and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.

Pharmacy Personal Statements

Submitted by Angelin

Pharmacy (MPharm)

As I have long been drawn to pursuing a career involving healthcare a...

Submitted by Michelle

Pharmacy is an ever changing profession, under constant development a...

Submitted by Thomas

MPharm Pharmacy B230

Throughout my school life, I have particularly enjoyed the sciences. ...

Pharmacy Personal Statement Advice

Your Pharmacy personal statement will be the most important thing you will submit for a university application. University applications are bought and sold off the strength off a student’s personal statement. In short, your Pharmacy personal statement is your chance to convince a course leader to let you study at their university. Before you embark on writing your Pharmacy personal statement, you should look at some Pharmacy personal statement examples beforehand. These give you an idea of structure, tone and just what exactly a university is looking for in a personal statement. You don’t need to be writing an epic novel, but it should at least convey the core aims that you have, your achievements, your goals and above all, your passion for the subject. Your Pharmacy personal statement should include anything that you feel is relevant. A Pharmacy personal statement should be a list of reasons that a university should like you and should also be a chance to show off your passion for Pharmacy. Your Pharmacy personal statement should include: Any extra curricular activities you have taken part in Relevant work experience Your passion for the subject Your Pharmacy personal statement won’t be written in a matter of thirty minutes with a cup of tea, you need to take your time. Write multiple drafts and submit it only when you're happy with it.

Want to learn more about a university?

Get your questions answered by sending them an enquiry now.

undergraduate Universities

Undergraduate uni's.

Photo of University Academy 92, UA92

246 courses

Photo of Ravensbourne University London

Ravensbourne

Photo of The University of Law

Uni of Roehampton

270 courses

Photo of ARU Writtle

ARU Writtle

103 courses

Photo of West London Institute of Technology

West London IoT

Photo of University of Kent

Uni of Kent

429 courses

Photo of Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths, UOL

272 courses

Photo of University of Sunderland

Uni of Sunderland

200 courses

Photo of University of Surrey

Uni of Surrey

437 courses

Photo of University of East London

Uni of East London

299 courses

Photo of Middlesex University

Middlesex Uni

313 courses

Photo of University of Chester

Uni of Chester

402 courses

Photo of Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Met Uni

304 courses

Photo of Northeastern University - London

Northeastern Uni

Photo of University of Winchester

Uni of Winchester

166 courses

Photo of University of Hertfordshire

Uni of Hertfordshire

418 courses

Photo of University of Suffolk

Uni of Suffolk

106 courses

Photo of SOAS, University of London

238 courses

Photo of Bangor University

528 courses

Photo of University of Bradford

Uni of Bradford

197 courses

Photo of University of Bedfordshire

Uni of Bedfordshire

343 courses

Photo of University for the Creative Arts

Uni for Creative Arts

323 courses

Photo of Coventry University

Coventry Uni

446 courses

Photo of University of Reading

Uni of Reading

393 courses

Photo of Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett Uni

325 courses

Photo of New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering, NMITE

Staffordshire Uni

276 courses

Photo of Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt Uni

207 courses

Photo of University of Leicester

Uni of Leicester

267 courses

Photo of Kingston University

Kingston Uni

386 courses

Photo of University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

415 courses

Photo of Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin Uni

463 courses

Photo of Swansea University

Swansea Uni

782 courses

Photo of University of Westminster

Uni of Westminster

331 courses

Photo of Leeds Arts University

Leeds Arts University

Photo of University of Essex

Uni of Essex

802 courses

Photo of University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol

UWE, Bristol

250 courses

Photo of Wrexham University

Wrexham Uni

168 courses

Photo of University of Central Lancashire

Uni of C.Lancashire

440 courses

Photo of Escape Studios

Escape Studios

Photo of University of South Wales

365 courses

Photo of University of Huddersfield

Uni of Huddersfield

453 courses

Photo of University of Brighton

Uni of Brighton

252 courses

Photo of Bath Spa University

Bath Spa Uni

295 courses

Photo of LIBF

Edge Hill Uni

245 courses

Photo of University of Portsmouth

Uni of Portsmouth

370 courses

Photo of University of Hull

Uni of Hull

273 courses

Photo of Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent

531 courses

Photo of Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier

184 courses

Photo of Queen's University, Belfast

Queen's Uni

410 courses

Find the latest from Uni Compare

Image of Kingston University

Leeds Beckett University

Leeds has been rated as one of the best places to live in the UK by The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2023 guide

Image of University of the West of England (UWE)

University of the West of England (UWE)

Ranked 4th in the South West in the Guardian League Table 2024, click here to learn more!

Amazon’s pharmacy will offer same-day delivery in L.A. and NYC and plans to expand

A screen showing bottles of pills.

  • Show more sharing options
  • Copy Link URL Copied!

Amazon will soon offer same-day delivery of several prescription medications in Los Angeles and New York, yet another example of the online shopping giant’s bet on consumers’ growing dependence on ease and speed.

As Amazon Pharmacy expands into the nation’s two biggest markets, Angelenos and New Yorkers will be able to order several common medications, including those used to manage high blood pressure, diabetes and the flu, online and have them delivered on their doorstep within hours, the company said in a statement Tuesday.

Amazon plans to offer the service in more than a dozen U.S. cities by the end of the year, the company said, noting that it already offers same-day medication delivery in a handful of cities, including Phoenix, Seattle and College Station, Texas, where it said deliveries are made within an hour by drone. Although the service won’t begin in the L.A. metro area until April, a company spokesperson said in an email that the service became available in San Bernardino, Riverside and Anaheim on Tuesday.

The company’s Amazon Prime service, which launched in 2005 and offers fast delivery of a wide variety of products, boasts more than 200 million members worldwide, but there is reason to expect consumers may be more reluctant about purchasing medications online.

NOV. 19, 2020 - The new Amazon Pharmacy offers customers convenience and potentially lower prices. But experts warn that users could be jeopardizing their privacy. (Jerome Adamstein / Los Angeles Times)

Column: Do you really want Amazon’s new drugstore knowing your medical condition?

The new Amazon Pharmacy offers customers convenience and potentially lower prices. But experts warn that users could be jeopardizing their privacy.

Nov. 19, 2020

Although the concept of getting medications delivered, particularly by mail, isn’t new, it still accounts for a relatively small percentage of drug purchases. Amazon acknowledged that reality in its Tuesday announcement, which linked to a consumer survey from the global business consulting firm McKinsey & Co., which found that, in 2021, only 10% of prescriptions in the U.S. were purchased through mail-order or online pharmacies.

But the world of online medication sales is expanding rapidly.

One of Amazon’s biggest competitors in the pharmaceutical space, CVS, already offers speedy prescription delivery. And some digital prescription platforms, such as Santa Monica-based GoodRx and Cost Plus Drug Co., which was started by billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban, have already built significant consumer bases.

FILE - The Amazon logo is seen in Douai, northern France, April 16, 2020. In August 2022, Amazon has said it will spend billions of dollars in two gigantic acquisitions that, if approved, will broaden its ever growing presence in the lives of consumers. This time, the company is targeting two areas: health care and the "smart home." (AP Photo/Michel Spingler, File)

Amazon is taking half of each sale from small-business merchants

Fees the company collects from third-party sellers have risen for six years in a row, squeezing their margins.

Feb. 13, 2023

In a video released Tuesday, the director of fulfillment for Amazon Pharmacy explained that a key feature of the company’s pharmacy, which launched in 2020 , is that its algorithms show customers an estimate of the cost of medications with their insurance co-pay and without insurance.

“We’re again leaning into price transparency,” said Vin Gupta, the chief medical officer for Amazon Pharmacy. “It’s as affordable as possible.”

That’s probably a smart move by the company, said Pranav Patel, a former researcher at the University of Toledo who has studied the field of pharmacy extensively.

When it comes to purchasing medications, he said, many Americans care primarily about price transparency, and “convenience is just good PR.”

“It’s about, ‘Am I paying the fair price for the drug?’” said Patel, who worked on a study that found that at least 1 in 5 prescriptions for many commonly prescribed generic medications would have been cheaper if the person had paid out of pocket and used discount cards from places such as Amazon and GoodRx instead of going through their insurance plans.

In its Tuesday announcement, the company said that medication delivery methods would be tailored to each area.

In the Greater Los Angeles region and across other suburban stretches, it plans to use Rivian electric vans as well as other vehicles to make deliveries; medications arriving on doorsteps in Manhattan could be transported by workers on e-bikes.

More to Read

FILE - This illustration provided by Perrigo in May 2023, depicts proposed packaging for the company's birth control medication Opill. U.S. officials have approved the first over-the-counter birth control pill, a major change that will broaden access for women and teenagers. The Food and Drug Administration decision on Thursday, July 13, 2023 means drugmaker Perrigo can sell its once-a-day Opill without a prescription. (Perrigo via AP, File)

The first over-the-counter birth control pill becomes available. Where is it sold?

March 19, 2024

FILE - In this July 10, 2019, file photo shoppers visit the downtown Target Store in Minneapolis. Target Corp. reports financial results Wednesday, Aug. 21. (AP Photo/Jim Mone, File)

Target launches a $49 subscription service for customers wanting quick delivery

March 5, 2024

FILE - Boxes of the drug mifepristone sit on a shelf at the West Alabama Women's Center in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on March 16, 2022. Drugstore chains CVS Health and Walgreens plan to start dispensing the abortion pill mifepristone in a few states. CVS Health will start filling prescriptions for the medication in Rhode Island and neighboring Massachusetts “in the weeks ahead,” spokeswoman Amy Thibault said Friday, March 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Allen G. Breed, File)

CVS and Walgreens plan to start dispensing abortion pill mifepristone soon

March 1, 2024

personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

Marisa Gerber is an enterprise reporter at the Los Angeles Times. A finalist for the Livingston Award, she joined The Times in 2012.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Samuel Bankman-Fried departs Manhattan federal court in New York, Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, in New York. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

Column: Sam Bankman-Fried will be sentenced Thursday for his crypto fraud. Throw the book at him

In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese President Xi Jinping, center, walks with representatives from American business, strategic and academic communities at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 27, 2024. (Huang Jingwen/Xinhua via AP)

World & Nation

Chinese president issues a positive message at a meeting with U.S. business leaders

The Cinderella Castle is seen at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Friday, July 14, 2023, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Disney is asking a Florida judge to toss out a lawsuit filed by Gov. Ron DeSantis' appointees to Disney World's governing district.(AP Photo/John Raoux)

Company Town

Disney and DeSantis-appointed Florida oversight board settle lawsuit

Trian Partners hedge fund manager Nelson Peltz

In Disney proxy battle, second firm urges shareholders to elect Nelson Peltz

IMAGES

  1. Pharmacy doctorate personal statement

    personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

  2. Guide to a Winning Statement of Purpose for MS in Pharmaceutical

    personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

  3. FREE 10+ Pharmacy School Personal Statement Samples [ Application

    personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

  4. FREE 7+ Sample Personal Statement for Medical School in PDF

    personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

  5. 8 Printable Personal Statement Pharmacy And Some Important Things To

    personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

  6. Pin on Pharmacy Personal Statement Sample

    personal statement for medicine and pharmacy

VIDEO

  1. No Bank Statement/Proof of Fund Required Before Admission|Low Deposit |No Transcript Evaluation

  2. Press Release Statement about our RxPak™ Prescription Medication Management System

  3. Personal statement for medicine

  4. Write an Incredible Personal Statement: 3 Steps with Examples

  5. The MEDICINE PERSONAL STATEMENT That Got Me 4 Interviews

  6. Oxford personal statement (for Medicine)

COMMENTS

  1. Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

    Pharmacology Personal Statement Example 1. I am of Haitian descent and my country is one known for its harsh living conditions. There is a constant struggle for survival and poverty is an endemic burden. Despite numerous advances in technology, Haiti has remained the least-developed country in the Western Hemisphere...

  2. Pharmacy School Personal Statement Examples

    Updated: Jan 01, 2024. Pharmacy school personal statement examples demonstrate that pharmacy school applications require many different documents to adequately assess you as a potential candidate. In addition to looking at your CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required materials, most pharmacy programs ask you to submit ...

  3. Pharmacy Personal Statement

    Use your statement to reflect on: your perceptions of what the profession is about, and where you can see yourself within it. the skills and qualities that will be required, both to study pharmacy and to practice it as a profession. evidence of situations or activities where you've displayed some of these skills and qualities yourself.

  4. How to Write a Compelling Pharmacy School Personal Statement

    As part of your brainstorming, look at successful personal statements. Websites like Studential and ApplyToUni can give you a good idea of what spelled success for past applicants. Or, if you know anyone who went to pharmacy school already, you can ask them for their best tips. 2. Outline and Draft.

  5. Writing the Perfect Pharmacy Personal Statement: Expert Tips

    Take note of any word limits or formatting guidelines to tailor your statement accordingly. 2. Showcase Your Genuine Interest in Pharmacy. Start your personal statement by showcasing your authentic passion for pharmacy. Explain why you want to become a pharmacist and how this career aligns with your personal goals and values.

  6. Pharmacy Personal Statement Example for UCAS Application

    11 Nov,2022 Alan Withworth. Find this Pharmacy Personal Statement Example as an inspiration to write your own and make it perfect for the University admission board. Don't forget to apply via the UCAS Application website. Science, challenge, and making a difference in people's lives are all aspects of pharmacy that I look for in my career.

  7. Tips for Writing a Pharmacy School Personal Statement

    Include only pharmacy-related experiences. 6. Avoid plagiarism. Committee members can always see through plagiarized works, so avoid this at all costs. This will only destroy your credibility in the field. 7. Avoid controversial topics. The personal statement is not a discussion ground for questionable topics.

  8. Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

    Your Pharmacology personal statement doesn't need to be War and Peace, but it should be a clear and concise picture of you and who you are. Don't worry about the character count, you can easily write 4,000 words once you get into the swing of things. One quick tip from us, is when you're writing your Pharmacology personal statement, we ...

  9. PDF Writing Your Personal Statement

    GeneralOutline of a Personal Statement. Disclaimer: There is NO specific or "correct" formula for a personal statement! I. Introduction - Draw the reader in with a story or hook. Provide background or context as to why you chose pharmacy as a career. II. Supporting Paragraphs (2-3) - Develop your argument by evaluating your experiences and claims.

  10. Personal statement

    The personal statement is the same for each course you apply for, so avoid mentioning any universities or colleges by name. In your personal statement, you should: Tell the reader why you are applying - include your motivation to study pharmacy, as well as what interests you about the subject. Explain what makes you suitable for a career in ...

  11. PDF WRITING A PERSONAL STATEMENT

    PTCAS (Physical Therapy): "Reflect on a meaningful experience in your life and share how that experience influenced your personal growth, such as your attitudes or perceptions." - 4,500 characters PharmCAS (Pharmacy): "Your Personal Essay should address why you selected pharmacy as a career; how the Doctor of Pharmacy degree relates to your immediate and long-term professional goals.

  12. 6 Real Examples Of Successful Medicine Personal Statements

    Personal Statement Example 6. This Personal Statement comes from a student who got into Graduate Entry Medicine at King's - and also had interviews for Undergraduate Medicine at King's, QMUL and Exeter. Get some inspiration for your Medicine Personal Statement with these successful examples from current Medical School students.

  13. Medicine Personal Statement Examples

    A successful medicine personal statement should be written clearly and concisely, with a good introduction, middle, and conclusion. Remember, medicine is a highly competitive subject, so your personal statement needs to be as polished as possible. Our personal statement template can help guide you through writing your first draft.

  14. How to Write a Personal Statement

    25. Writing the Conclusion: Now finally, we're at the last part of the personal statement structure, which is the conclusion. Now this quite seamlessly introduction carries a lot of weight. Just as a good introduction makes a good first impression, a good conclusion leaves a good lasting impression.

  15. Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

    Step 4: Write your personal statement. Begin by summarising your suitability for the role. Make sure to write from the first-person viewpoint. Outline your qualifications and experience, followed by your relevant skills. Be sure to emphasize your enthusiasm for the field of pharmacy and the role you are applying for.

  16. The Trusted Pharmacy Personal Statement Guide w/Examples

    This personal statement is a little less impressive than the first one. First of all, there's not really an opening line. When writing a pharmacy personal statement - or a personal statement of any kind, for that matter - you want to have a nice first sentence that breaks the ice and starts the statement off in a fluid manner.

  17. Pharmacy Personal Statement

    Sample Statement. Most people see science as something that is done locked away in the ivory tower of the laboratory, but for pharmacists, science couldn't be more practical, everyday and public facing. This is what attracts me to the field of pharmacy; seeing the tangible benefits of my work, helping my community and protecting the health of ...

  18. How to write a pharmacist personal statement (with example)

    Follow these steps to writing a personal statement when applying for a role as a pharmacist: 1. Carefully read the employer's instructions. Ensure you carefully read the job application instructions and become familiar with them. They typically note what to include in your application, CV and personal statement.

  19. Writing Personal Statements for the Health Professions

    Personal Statements. Most applications to health professional programs will require a written personal statement. Though exact prompts will vary depending on the application, your personal statement is typically your first opportunity to share your reasons for pursuing a career in a particular healthcare path with an admissions committee ...

  20. How to Write a Pharmacist Personal Statement (With Sample)

    Highlight your previous achievements. You can use the concluding paragraph to emphasize your accomplishments in your professional or academic career. This can help the reader remember what makes you a good candidate for the position or admission into the pharmacy program. Summarize your personal statement.

  21. Winning Pharmacy Residency Statement Examples

    Pharmacy Residency Personal Statement Example Opening #1. I am excited to apply for the Pharmacy Residency Program as it represents an invaluable opportunity for my professional development and growth. I am eager to further enhance my clinical skills, expand my knowledge base, and contribute to the field of pharmacy.

  22. Pharmacy (Masters) Personal Statement

    Pharmacy (Masters) Personal Statement. Why Pharmacy? I considered a range of medical career options but after attending the science live conference and BPF conference, I realized that a Masters in Pharmacy that best utilised my skills. Going to the UCL open day for pharmacy made me realise that this was the degree for me, especially due to my ...

  23. FDA Approves First Treatment for Patients with Liver Scarring Due to

    The FDA approved the first medication for the treatment of adults with noncirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with moderate to advanced liver scarring, to be used along with diet and ...

  24. Hyperhidrosis and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Among Adolescents

    Primary focal hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating and occurs in 1% of the Israel population to 4.8% of the US population. 1,2 Hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) are complex noninflammatory connective-tissue disorders manifested by joint hypermobility, musculoskeletal symptoms, and autonomic dysregulation.

  25. Medicare Policy Change Will Advance Equity Among Hospitals Caring For

    Co-authors included Sahil Sandhu, MSc, of Harvard Medical School; and Karen E. Joynt Maddox, MD, MPH, of Washington University School of Medicine. This research was funded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (grants R01HL164561 and K23HL148525), part of the National Institutes of Health.

  26. Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

    Pharmacy Personal Statement Advice. Your Pharmacy personal statement will be the most important thing you will submit for a university application. University applications are bought and sold off the strength off a student's personal statement. In short, your Pharmacy personal statement is your chance to convince a course leader to let you ...

  27. Amazon's pharmacy will offer same-day delivery in L.A. and NYC and

    Amazon will soon offer same-day delivery of several prescription medications in Los Angeles and New York City, another example of the company's bet on convenience.