Roundtable Discussions!

     Nine local pharmacy residents spoke to Student Alliance members during a roundtable discussion at Roseman University of Health Sciences College of Pharmacy on November 14th. Pharmacy students had the opportunity to listen to professionals from University Medical Center and the VA of Southern Nevada. Members rotated through the tables and were given the opportunity to ask questions to gain a better understanding on preparing for pharmacy residency programs. Topics of this roundtable included the matching process, APPE selection, types of residencies, standing out as a candidate, preparing for a residency and ASHP Midyear. I asked a Rebecca Kim, a second year pharmacy student. “What did you find to be the most beneficial part of this discussion?” She said, “Having PGY1 and PGY2 residents from numerous areas of practice allowed for an in depth perspective on preparing for the residency application process and how to stand out as a candidate.” Standing out as residency candidate is often not an easy task. PGY1 resident Dr. Mansy extended his unique approach, on how he sung “Who let the dogs out” when asked what song depicts his work ethics during his residency interview process, to pharmacy students that night. Faculty advisors of Student Alliance, Dr. Decerbo and Dr. Visconti, were delighted with the turnout of this event. The roundtable was a great experience particularly forsecond and third year students. We are very fortunate to have had so many pharmacy residents give their time to discuss the multitude of preparations which propelled them as successful residency candidates.

     In closing, I would like to give special thanks to the participating residents. From University Medical Center Dr. Ashment (PGY1), Dr. Nesseth (PGY2), Dr. Tenney (PGY1), Dr. Hackman (PGY1) and from VA of Southern Nevada Dr. Nicolas (PGY1), Dr. Bui (PGY1), Dr. Kim (PGY1), Dr. Mansy (PGY1) and Dr. Kimura (PGY1) where those in attendance.