Pharmacy Students Find Multiple Paths at 2025 Career Fair
| The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences’ (UAMS) College of Pharmacy recently hosted its annual Career Fair, drawing 78 pharmacy students who were there to make connections and learn about different paths available to them after graduation.
This year’s event was held March 28 at the Meyer Student Pavilion at Pulaski Academy in Little Rock. Thirteen employers from across the state had booths: Ellison Family Pharmacy, Mercy Hospital Fort Smith, Kroger Pharmacy, ARcare, Ashford Advisors, Walgreens, CHRISTUS Health, Gammels Clinic Pharmacy, Walmart Pharmacy, Baptist Medical Center Little Rock, UAMS Outpatient Pharmacy, CVS Health and Butler Pharmacies.
Fourth-year pharmacy students spent the day walking from booth to booth, speaking with representatives and making connections for the future. The fair is often a good way for students to find direction for their careers after graduation. Even if they already have a path laid out, the opportunities to network with other pharmacists across the state are extremely valuable.
“Even though I already have a job lined up after graduation, attending the career fair was still a valuable experience,” said Jennifer Portillo. “It was great to connect with different employers and learn about the wide variety of opportunities in the field. I want to stay engaged with the professional community and be informed on what’s out there.”
Reem Alfarah met with representatives from independent, chain and hospital pharmacies and came away with a better understanding of each one.
“I was fortunate to receive direct offers from more than one pharmacy, which gave me a strong sense of encouragement and motivation as I prepare to transition into the workforce,” she said. “I also expanded my professional network and gained insights into various career paths.”
Garrett Seal was excited to be able to learn more about various pharmacy pathways.
“It was a great event,” he said. “I got to talk with some really interesting people about career options, internships and the skills they’re looking for in candidates. It was very helpful in giving me a better idea of the different paths I can take after graduation.”