Pharmacist of the Month:
Danielle Tran, PharmD

Why did you pursue a career in the pharmacy field?

I thought it was a good profession for raising a family. It was also a close option, since I lived in Stockton, and the pharmacy school was right there.

Describe your experience at your pharmacy school.

I went to UOP as a pre-pharmacy and pharmacy student. It was fun learning, making friends and socializing; but it was very hard work. It's hard since UOP condenses a 4-year pharmacy program into 3 years, year round. So you have no summer or winter breaks. It's study, study, study.

What distinguishes retail pharmacy from other kinds of pharmacies?

Retail pharmacy deals with the business side of the pharmaceutical industry. You relate to customers, whereas other areas of pharmacy, such as hospital pharmacy, deal with inpatients and outpatients.

What's the best part about being a pharmacist?

I enjoy helping people, especially the elders, and interacting with the public and with customers. I also like to teach and be a mentor for new pharmacists. It's fulfilling to watch the growth in these young people on their path to becoming pharmacists.

What is the most challenging part about managing a retail pharmacy?

Dealing with the insurance company is probably the most challenging aspect of the retail pharmacy. The insurance company dictates all. It's hard to keep good customers because of insurance changes.

The human resource aspect is another challenging part in managing a retail pharmacy, mainly from dealing with people. There is no textbook way to deal with people, and you just have to manage that.

Have you ever felt that your job keeps you from spending time with your loved ones or another activity that you want to engage in?

Yes, but that comes with any other job or decision you make. But that's what time management is all about. Learn to say “No” to extra hours, because of pharmacist shortage. I don't bring work home, so that I can enjoy time with my family.

What is one aspect of your job you would change if you could?

Definitely more control over insurance policies. That way, the customers can receive the best treatment, as well as the convenience of choosing their preferred pharmacy.

In your opinion, what are the qualities of an ideal pharmacist?

You're looking at her right now! I'm just kidding. You have to be a people person, with customers and employees, should know how to interact, be knowledgeable, have a good attitude, and a deep sympathy/empathy for others.

Do you have any advice for our pre-pharmacy students? Application process or career wise?

Pharmacy is a very good profession for everyone. There is a shortage, so that makes it easy once you graduate. It's very important to work first, and know what you are getting into. It's not just ringing up prescriptions. It'd be an incredible waste to find another career calling halfway through professional school.

Can you suggest any resources to know more about current events in the pharmacy field?

Work. Not just in retail, but in other fields as well. It keeps you updated on current policies.