Student pharmacists from the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy joined fellow advocates at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association’s annual Day of Advocacy, lending their voices to efforts focused on protecting and advancing the future of pharmacy in the state.
For many students, the decision to attend was rooted in a sense of professional responsibility. Emily Fisher, Class of 2027, emphasized the importance of engaging with policymakers early in one’s career.
“As a future pharmacist, I find it vital to engage with legislators early and build those relationships,” Fisher says. “If we do not advocate for our profession now, there may not be one to advocate for in the future.”
James Brown, Class of 2028, believes participation itself sends a powerful message.
“There is real strength in numbers, and showing up together makes it clear that these issues matter to us and that we are paying attention,” Brown says. “Pharmacists are the experts in our profession, and that sense of ownership should start while we are still in pharmacy school.”
There is real strength in numbers, and showing up together makes it clear that these issues matter to us and that we are paying attention.
Lainey Florian-West, Class of 2027, has been preparing for this level of engagement since her first year. Now a junior board member of SCPhA and a member of its Legislative Affairs Committee, she felt confident entering discussions with legislators thanks to her prior involvement. Ahead of the event, she attended SCPhA’s Pizza and Policy program, reviewed advocacy materials, and wrote personal letters to two legislators.
“Promoting dialogue and education at both the organizational and personal levels is essential to protecting our profession and ensuring continued access to care for our patients,” Florian-West says.
Sun Heslin, also Class of 2028, encourages her peers to approach advocacy with confidence.
“Advocacy isn’t as intimidating as it seems,” Heslin says. “Just remember that you do have the power to make a difference for your profession and for all patients.”
Topics: Pharm.D. Program