phd pharmacology personal statement

My personal statement for a Ph.d in pharmacology.

samanthappa 1 / -   Sep 23, 2011   #1 Last April, I told my husband and his parents that I have decided to go abroad and pursue a Ph.D. degree, which would take me five or six years to complete. At the time, I was three months pregnant and had been a full-time housewife for almost three years. My decision was not one that I had reached lightly; instead I had carefully considered all my options and finally decided to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a scholar working for a university. Although I was fully aware that my decision was at the cost of not raising my son alongside my husband and being away from my family for a few years, I did not want to give up on my dream. As a child I dreamed of becoming a scientist; a dream borne out of being raised in an intellectual and well-educated family who shaped my personality and inclinations. My parents are professors working in the China Agricultural University and we lived in a staff apartment inside the university campus. The environment I grew up in has led me to fully believe that becoming a university teacher or researcher would be a life to aspire for. Initially, I had chosen pharmacology as my major due to the influence of my uncle who worked for a pharmaceutical company and shared with me the future career prospects in this industry. However, as I delved deeper into my studies, I grew to appreciate pharmacology. I was fascinated with learning about the human body as well as in attending various laboratory courses. I can now still remember the exciting moment when I saw the beautiful dose-response curve drawn up by a computer after I entered the data collected in an experiment of acetylecholine-induced contraction of guinea-pig ileum smooth muscle. I had grown to love my chosen field and did not have any regrets as to my choice during the college year. A personal event cemented my decision to focus on pharmacology, particularly on the area of neuropharmacology; Two years ago, my mother was stricken with depression and her condition had a huge effect on our family. My father began to laugh much less than before. Most of conversations between us were about my mother's illness. Despite the rudimentary knowledge of depression I learned in my undergraduate studies, this disease has become a personal factor in my life instead of just objective information. I realized this disease can harm a person deeply and even destroy families. Conducting research in pharmacology is not only a career option that will allow me to earn, but it would actually allow me to aid society by improving the lives of people so that they can live longer and healthier to spend time with their loved ones. I have always excelled in my academics. I was admitted to the best high school in China that recruited students based on their scores in the entrance examination hosted by the city education bureau. I was the top student in the University Preparatory course in the U.K., giving me the opportunity to study in a top ranking university, University College London. My continuous exemplary academic performance allowed me to gain the second upper (honored) bachelor degree. Studying at a top university also allowed me to accumulate a strong background research. In my first year, I spent four hours a week at the laboratory which allowed me gain proficiency in basic laboratory techniques. In the second year, the course of experimental pharmacology taught me the nature of full agonist, partial agonist, and antagonist. I also learned the cell clamp technique, western blot techniques and ELISA. In the final year of my undergraduate study, I conducted my first laboratory research project: Spinal administered rapamycin reduces nociceptive transmission in rat in neuropathic pain. This particular project was unlike any of my previous experiments as it did not have expected results; rather, I had to discover the unknown by myself. Since last year, I have been working at a famous laboratory in the top university in China - Tsinghua University. I chose to work here instead of finding another, financially rewarding job because it allows me to interact with graduate students and pharmacology researchers in the laboratory, giving me insight on their works and studies. The laboratory holds seminars where we discuss on-going and future projects. From this, I was exposed to a broader field of pharmacology, such as the function of sRNA. After three months of extensive training, I received an animal experiment license for mice and rats. I was then assigned to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a mouse's lateral and fourth ventricle with stereotaxic frame to compare the physiological difference in CSF content between a normal mouse and one suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Although there is an abundance of information on the techniques in collecting CSF in mice, there is very little information on the collection of CSF in the lateral ventricle and the fourth ventricle. Due to the individual differences in mice and the extremely small size (3-4 millimeter) of their ventricles, the success rate of my experiment was extremely low at the beginning. I was unable to collect 1 microliter of CSF in nearly a month. I felt a great pressure those days and could not get any more help from the internet or the library. The only way to conquer it is do it repetitively. Finally, after weeks of work, I was able to collect them in mice successfully three times out of five. In the future, I would like to pursue a doctorate degree that would allow me to work as a professor in a university like my parents did. I intend to continue with my studies on neuropharmacology and molecular pharmacology in the signaling pathways, and neuroscience. I am strongly motivated and have a strong academic and research background. I believe my experiences, would allow me to contribute to the diversity of your student roster. above is my personal statement for a ph.d degree. Can anyone help me to edit it? Thank you very much

The UB Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences is the foremost destination for PhD student scholars interested in challenging the boundaries of drug discovery, development and evaluation.

We invite you to study with our group of internationally renowned faculty as they advance the biotherapies and technologies of the future to improve human health and society. 

Sponsored through the university, this multi-year program provides enhanced nationally competitive funding packages to ensure the support and continuation of the next generation of scholars and researchers.

Support initiatives include: cost of broad-based fees for doctoral students who are full time and fully funded. Covered fees include the comprehensive fee, academic excellence and success fee, student activity fee, and the international student fee, where applicable.

Find out more: UB PhD Excellence Initiative.

Learn more about the many ways UB can support your career aspirations through innovative assistantships, fellowships, scholarships and other benefits.

Find out more: PhD Level Funding.

Doctoral students receive a full tuition scholarship and stipend. Additional amounts may be received through individual scholarships.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in pharmacy, biochemistry, chemistry, biology, engineering or other science
• Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0
• Two letters of recommendation from faculty knowledgeable of the student's ability and capability. Evaluators should comment on laboratory research, communication skills, creativity, and intangibles in the student's academic performance. An email request will be sent directly to your recommenders when you submit your application for formal review.
• Personal statement: the personal statement is a general statement of purpose describing academic, professional, and research interests and should be no more than 500 words.
• Demonstrated proficiency in organic and physical chemistry, biochemistry, biology and mathematics
• Prior research experience and co-authorship in scientific publications are considered favorably.

Application Steps

Applying to graduate, professional and research programs can be overwhelming. Let us help with these tips!

• Our master’s programs typically take 1 to 2 years to complete, with the end goal being either gaining employment or continuing on to a doctoral or professional program. Note that master’s programs are typically self-funded.
• Our doctoral program typically takes 5 years to complete, where students take coursework early on, followed by independent research culminating in a dissertation. 
• When to start planning for graduate school
• How to apply (includes information on letters of recommendation, personal statement and resume/CV)
• Writing a personal statement
• Learn about options for funding your graduate education .

Information for Current BS/MS or MS Students

Current students in our BS/MS or MS programs who are interested in the PhD program are required to submit a new application with new recommendations. MS students may apply either during their first or second year of the program. BS/MS students must complete their entire BS/MS program before joining the PhD program (some exceptions considered).

MS students who are accepted to the PhD program during their first year in the MS program are transferred directly to the PhD program and do not receive their MS degree. MS students who are accepted to the PhD program during their second year in the MS program are encouraged to complete their MS project and confer their MS degree before joining the PhD program.

It is recommended that students interested in the PhD program consider taking the required courses for the PhD program that are offered during their MS studies. If admitted to PhD program, students who have completed all of the required PhD courses will be allowed to take the Preliminary Exams.

Students accepted to the PhD program from our MS program who have elected not to receive their MS degree can apply all of their required PhD courses and graduate course credits towards the 72 credits needed for the PhD. These students should develop an academic plan carefully so that the remaining credit requirements needed for the PhD degree are met without exceeding the 72 credits by a large margin.

Students formerly in our BS/MS or MS programs who are accepted to the PhD and have received their BS/MS or MS degree can apply part or all of their prior graduate credits from the University at Buffalo towards the PhD. The Director of Graduate Studies will waive the required PhD courses taken during the BS/MS and MS program for these students. These students should work closely with the Director of Graduate Studies so that remaining credit requirements needed for the PhD degree are met without exceeding the 72 credits by a large margin.

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• Pharmacy School

Best Pharmacy School Personal Statement Examples

Check out top 4 sample statements.

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 a personal statement. After gathering so many materials together, a one-page essay may seem like a trivial item to check off on your application to-do list, but beware of treating the personal statement too lightly! Gaining admission to a graduate pharmacy program certainly requires top grades, competitive test scores, and glowing letters of recommendation from referees who know you well, but these aren’t the only components that admissions committees take into account when evaluating your profile. 

Keep in mind that most pharmacy school applicants already have stellar academic records, impressive test scores, and fantastic recommendations. These sorts of accomplishments are important, but are more or less a given in the application process. Furthermore, grades, test scores, and other people’s perceptions of you and the quality of your work are insufficient to determine if you are up for the challenge of the rigors of pharmacy school and the work that follows graduation. With something as serious as pharmacology, it is crucial to determine whether who you are would make you a good fit for the profession. Your knowledge, experiences, and attitudes all play a key role in deciding if you would thrive as a pharmacy student, and eventually, as a pharmacist serving your community. With so many applicants each cycle, admissions officers need some way to gauge these factors in order to narrow the applicant pool down to those they would like to speak to in person, or these days, over the internet. This is where the personal statement comes in! Keep reading to determine what a pharmacy school personal statement measures and how to create one that will make you stand out from other applicants.

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

Article Contents 24 min read

4 pharmacy school personal statement examples.

Three days after my thirteenth birthday, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. The next twelve months were the toughest in my life, but this experience also gave me something I am forever grateful for—an unwavering passion for pharmacy. I always accompanied my mother to her chemotherapy sessions, where I performed plays for her and the other patients, trying to make them smile. I took an immediate liking to the pharmacist, who returned repeatedly to ask my mother how she was feeling; he explained in detail how these chemo drugs worked and how they interacted with others she had been taking. I listened raptly, entranced by the seemingly magic properties of this medication. It was difficult to watch my mother lose her hair and become frail, but she ultimately made a full recovery, thanks to the wonderful team of medical professionals and to these life-saving drugs. While I lost the naivety of youth that year, I gained a profound new sense of purpose. I was inspired to become a hospital pharmacist and to help patients in times of extreme uncertainty and pain.  

Anyone who has ever faced a challenge has probably heard about the deflating nonexistence of a “magic pill” solution. Want to lose weight? There’s no magic pill for that. Trying to learn a new language? No dice. Hard work is always touted as the solution, and rightly so. As a preteen who struggled with confidence, I desperately yearned for a magic pill solution that would make me the bubbly, carefree girl surrounded by laughter in the cafeteria. Instead, the only bubbly aspect of my lunchtime break was the gurgling, broken faucet inside the girl’s restroom. Though unaware of it at the time, the bathroom was not a refuge from the scary, hormonal social scene of junior high, but from my ever-increasing social anxiety. As for a magic pill to rid me of that affliction? I think you know the answer to that.

Though there may not have been a magic pill to rid me of my mounting social anxiety, hard work seemed like an unlikely solution, too. For months, I put on a happy face, trying to convince myself that there was nothing to fear in locker-side conversations and that my worth was not determined by what a group of gangly middle-schoolers thought of me. Eventually, my parents took me to see a psychiatrist, and after many sweaty-palmed conversations, I was diagnosed with social anxiety and handed a prescription for anti-anxiety medication. Of course, the medication I received was no miracle, but with other coping mechanisms, my world began to seem a little more welcoming. Gradually, I interacted with peers more, who became friends. I still had to work hard in therapy, but the capsules I took in the morning each day removed my constant, debilitating worry.

Without the shadow of anxiety darkening my every social interaction, I felt as though I was beginning to become the version of myself I always wanted to be. Years later, I actually was the girl surrounded by laughter in the high school lunchroom. More importantly, though, I took my first chemistry course and discovered my passion. The ways that elements on the periodic table could combine to create entirely new substances fascinated me. I realized that, just like myself, the world around us is in a constant state of flux, with elements combining, reacting to forces, and continuously changing. As I changed from a high school chemistry novice to a university student, one thing remained constant: my passion for chemistry. Delving into how chemistry can be used as a tool inspired me to pursue it as a major, and I worked in various labs on campus investigating how different combinations could be put to use to solve problems, just like my psychiatrist helped me find ways to deal with my social anxiety.

Through my lab work on campus, I grew close with Dr. Johnson – the principal investigator in a campus lab and a faculty member in the pharmacy program. One evening, as we were locking up the lab, Dr. Johnson asked me if I had ever considered becoming a pharmacist. Initially hesitant, I finally accepted Dr. Johnson’s offer to facilitate a shadowing opportunity with one of his former colleagues. My first day in the pharmacy was overwhelming. The rattling of pills in bottles served as the backdrop to the near-tangible pressure of making sure no life-threatening mistakes occurred. I was intimidated by the responsibility, but excited by the chemical interactions that the pharmacist discussed with me. This was the ultimate problem-solving chemistry I had been seeking! 

After months of shadowing a pharmacist, I was convinced that I wanted to pursue a career in pharmacy. My experiences with Dr. Johnson and his colleague piqued my interest in what seemed like a never-ending field of discovery. Elements combining, reacting to forces, and continuously changing, but in the human body! Figuring out the puzzles of chemical reactions had always been intriguing, but knowing that I could combine that with helping people recover from sickness, manage chronic disease, or even find the strength to leave the middle school bathroom and have lunch with other students was empowering. The medication I took as a preteen may not have been a magic pill for my social anxiety, but there was certainly some magic in it. I look forward to putting in the hard work to bring that magic to others as a pharmacist. (724 words)

‘I want to do more than just counsel on the proper use of Levothyroxine’ was what I told my father when he asked me what kind of pharmacist I wanted to be. He died shortly after, and it saddens me to think that I cannot tell him now how my vision has evolved. Now, besides being someone in charge of educating patients about their medications, I see pharmacists as scientists who design and produce medicines, evaluate lab results and drug interactions for the benefit of the patient, act as a trusted link between doctors and their patients and, ultimately, impact patients’ lives and contribute to their wellbeing. Pharmacists need to be team players, good communicators, detail-oriented problem solvers, and culturally sensitive professionals, and these are some of the characteristics that I have developed through different endeavors.

As the captain of my soccer team in high school, I was put in charge of leading the team both in and outside of the game. On the field, I acted as a mediator between the players, coach, and referee. Successfully guiding players on the strategies dictated by the coach required excellent communication skills. In my team, I was not only a player; I was a key decision maker and a motivator. Making tactical decisions while supporting everyone in their position showed me the true meaning of being a team player and taught me how to handle pressure well. When I look back at those times and think about the titles we won for our school, I know that the characteristics I developed while I led my team to victory will be put to use when I have to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals in the future.

In college, while volunteering at a local pharmacy in my hometown, I helped the pharmacist handle prescriptions and dispense a variety of medications. It became clear to me that following a methodical approach and paying great attention to detail were essential in pharmacy. I made it a point to learn from him, and with time, I found myself being thorough, accurate, and organized not only at the pharmacy but at school as well. I also sought to understand both the cause and the effect of a situation, which is an ability that has guided everything I have done since then, including my research work and my academic activities as a Biology major. Seeing the pharmacist interact with patients was truly rewarding. I watched as he explained the treatment, potential side effects, and desired outcomes to them while evaluating the interactions between the drugs they were taking in order to avoid any harm. This showed me that, besides being a problem-solver and having analytical abilities, pharmacists need to be empathetic and care for their patients. Very soon I found myself interacting with people who visited the pharmacy and exercising the same skills the local pharmacist possessed.

This interaction with people helped me refine different characteristics that I bring with me to this new journey. One of the most significant is, perhaps, the cultural awareness that I developed in my shadowing work at the university hospital. Having a patient who does not speak the language, calming them down, and finding a translator, for instance, or understanding how different cultures view certain health practices and looking for ways to respectfully adapt to them has allowed me to learn and practice cultural sensitivity, which is crucial in a multicultural society, such as in Canada, where the population is becoming more diverse. By seeing pharmacists in action in the university hospital setting, I gained insight into the every-day lives of healthcare professionals who work with patients from every background imaginable. Moreover, I also came to realize the pressure to which pharmacists are exposed when the correct medication has to be provided with extreme urgency. Working under pressure is something I do well since my soccer days, so instead of deterring me, this motivates me.

If anyone were to ask me today about the kind of pharmacist I want to be, I would have a much stronger answer than the one I gave to my father many years ago. I want to be the kind of pharmacist that uses their knowledge, skills, and compassion to improve their patients’ health and one that works with other health care professionals to maximize health outcomes. Furthermore, I want to have patients trust me enough to let me become involved in their lives as I guide them on their medications and help them improve their quality of life. Besides all this, and on a much more personal level, I want to be the kind of pharmacist that will make my father proud. (781 words)

“Why would you want to be a pharmacist?” was the question my father asked me when I shared my decision to pursue pharmacy school. This was a question I had asked myself many times as I solidified my decision to pursue this dream. I shared my experience standing in line at a local pharmacy to fill a prescription. This was something I did every month, and not an experience that I had given much thought, however; when I saw the person in line in front of me experience great distress at learned the price of her daughter’s prescription, I realized that not all patrons had the same experience as me. To many, a trip to the pharmacy may be filled with questions over how their medications will affect their body or their ability to afford groceries for the month. The woman in line was worried about the high prescription price in light of other expenses in providing for her family. As I saw the pharmacist assist her in finding a less costly alternative, and the ease come over the woman as she learned that her family would be alright, I had my first glimpse into my future profession as a pharmacist. 

This day sparked my interest in attending pharmacy school, but also a desire to further explore what it meant to be a pharmacist. While donating blood to the Red Cross, I learned of the growing need for pharmacist volunteers, with many underserved communities necessitating additional support. As I was giving blood, I talked with a current pharmacist volunteer, ‘Samantha,’ who recounted her responsibilities to me when I expressed an interest in wanting to learn more. ‘Samantha’ explained why she felt pharmacists made wonderful volunteers in the community. She reflected that pharmacists have the knowledge to make an impact and valuable experience conversing daily with people of all backgrounds. As I talked with ‘Samantha,’ I thought about my own capacity to strike up a conversation with people I had not met before. I recalled that my friends often joke about how I could talk to anyone about anything, a trait I admire in myself. Everyone is skilled in different ways, but my ability to talk to anyone I come across will be an asset to my future as a pharmacist. I look forward to new experiences every day and speaking with new patrons to get to know their needs and concerns. In addition, I hope to volunteer in my community as a pharmacist to expand the number of people I can impact with my loquacious disposition as I guide them towards safe medication use. 

With the personality to be a efficacious pharmacist, I looked to build my experience in the healthcare profession. I secured a volunteer position aiding a hospital pharmacist in educating health professionals on drug side effects. I was responsible for designing educational posters for use in counseling patients about their medications. I was eager to use my artistic talents to help people seeking to understand their prescriptions, like the woman in line ahead of me at the pharmacy. As I designed posters, I asked my friends and family to look at my drafts and provide feedback. I asked if the information was conveyed in a clear, approachable way and I learned that what is clear to one person – such as myself – can be viewed differently by another person with a different background or set of life experiences. As a pharmacist, I will utilize educational materials that have gone through arduous testing to ensure they can deliver the necessary information, but I will also aim to understand community members’ experiences and how this may impact their understanding and outlook towards their medication.   

I explained to my father that, to me, pharmacy is about conversation. As patrons share with you why they have come in to the pharmacy that day, or what is troubling them, it is important to truly listen. This is the starting point for the conversation needed to understand their concerns, provide appropriate medication, and educated them as to how best proceed. Although my friends joke about my ability to talk to anyone, this is a trait that will go far in serving my community as a pharmacist. (702 words)

Here're some more tips for your interview:

Pharmacy school personal statements are a crucial aspect of your application because they help to separate you from the crowd of other accomplished applicants. After all, grades, test scores, and letters of recommendation only go so far in presenting who you are and your talents and strengths. Even a CV does not reveal enough about you and your experiences to adequately reflect your ability to succeed in pharmacy school and beyond. Imagine trying to measure a candidate’s level of motivation or ability to persevere through adversity by looking at his or her GPA! Luckily, you have the power to present the strengths and qualities that would make you an incredible future pharmacist and make your case for admission through your personal statement.

Essentially, this short essay asks you to reflect upon who you are, what led you to want to study pharmacology specifically, and why you would be great at it. Most pharmacy programs in the United States use a central application portal called PharmCAS (Pharmacy College Application Service) to distribute application materials like transcripts, test scores, and personal statements to individual university programs. Personal statements for PharmCAS must be 4500 characters or less, including spaces. It is crucial to draft a personal statement that is within the character limit because the online portal will not allow you to save or submit a personal statement that exceeds 4500 characters. As you prepare to write your personal statement, be sure to verify that your program(s) of choice use PharmCAS for receiving application materials. If you find that your university does not utilize PharmCAS, check the program’s website for specific instructions regarding the character or word limit for personal statements.

Canadian pharmacy program application expectations differ from school to school. The University of Toronto’s PharmD program, for example, does not require a personal statement of any kind.  

A common mistake that pharmacy school applicants make is relying upon cliches to discuss their motivations for pursuing a career as a pharmacist. Cliches read as tired and don’t reveal anything meaningful about an applicant. Moreover, many personal statement cliches like expressing a desire to “help people” are so vague that they fail to address an applicant’s desire to study pharmacology precisely. There are a multitude of careers that help people: teachers, doctors, non-profit workers, and more. Similarly, a fascination with science applies to any number of medical professions, researchers, scientists, and so on. In your personal statement, you must clearly express why you want to go to pharmacy school specifically.

Additionally, admissions officers want to ensure they admit only those applicants who demonstrate their capability of handling the demanding course work as well as possess the correct attitude and motivation to pursue a career in pharmacy. You’ve probably heard that past behavior is one of the best predictors of future behavior, and for good reason. For instance, if you have already persevered and exhibited your resilience, work ethic, and determination in past experiences, chances are you will exhibit those same skills in a pharmacy program, no matter the challenges you may face. Showing your skills through relevant anecdotes and relating them to core attributes you possess that will ensure your future success as a pharmacist goes a long way to separate you from an already qualified pool of applicants.

Pharmacy personal statements also assess the value you will add to your matriculating class, the program, and the institution overall. You want to prove you are a mutually beneficial fit for your pharmacy program of choice. As you craft your personal statement, you will likely need to create several versions that cater to each of the institutions to which you plan to apply, highlighting the attractive elements of each program that motivated you to apply and explaining how you would thrive in such an environment and contribute to the program’s culture and mission. Prove that the school would be missing out on an exceptional candidate if you were not offered admission!

How Are Pharmacy Personal Statements Structured?

Although each program has different requirements, pharmacy personal statements are generally around a page long, or 4500 characters for most applications in the United States, and should be structured similar to a traditional, academic paper. Your personal statement should have a clear introduction, a body composed of about 2-3 paragraphs, and a marked conclusion. It is important that you transition well among each of these elements to enhance the flow and overall readability of your statement. The logical progression of your ideas should also be well-defined so that admissions officers can easily follow your train of thought. Keep in mind that each individual reading your personal statement will be looking at many, many personal statements in any given sitting, which can get exhausting. Make their jobs easier by ensuring that your statement is easy to read and makes your points both concisely and clearly. Given the myriad personal statements each admissions officer must review, your statement must be quite unique and engaging in order to stand out and be memorable.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not the best choice to start your statement at the beginning by working on the introduction. Part of the reason you should avoid starting with the introduction is because an introduction typically sets the stage for what you discuss in the body of your statement. If you don’t have the content of the body prepared, it is unlikely that you will be able to craft an appropriate introduction. Rather, you want to plan out the body of your statement first by creating a rough outline of the topics you wish to address in your statement to give the reader an overview of what led you to pursue pharmacy school, as well as the experiences and qualities that would make you an excellent addition to the program of your choice, and ultimately, a great pharmacist. Utilizing an outline to plan out your response also takes a bit of the pressure off of you as a writer so that you are not focused on making every single sentence perfect until you have a general idea of where you are going with your statement. After you have the “bones” of your statement planned out via an outline structure, begin to add the “meat” little by little, gradually expanding your outline with more substantial content, including anecdotes that serve as evidence or justification for the claims that you make.  

Pharmacy personal statements are an opportunity to show the admissions committee your personality, values, and goals. With this in mind, think carefully about which experiences you want to emphasize and the skills and values you want those experiences to illustrate. “Illustrate” is a key word here; be sure to show your readers what you mean instead of telling them. For example, don’t just say you are a lifelong learner. Show your readers evidence that demonstrates you are a lifelong learner by narrating and reflecting upon experiences in which you were continuously eager to learn new information. One of the most important tips to remember as you plan the outline for and later write your pharmacy personal statement is to be true to yourself. When applicants communicate what they believe admissions committees want to hear, or in this case read, their inauthenticity is blatantly evident. Being genuine not only serves you in the short-term by creating a personal statement that reads as truly authentic, which is always more convincing and impactful, but it is to your benefit in the long run as well. After all, pharmacy school is 4 years long, which isn’t exactly an insignificant time commitment. You should aim to gain admission into a program that wants you for who you truly are and the potential you’ve demonstrated, and the only way of guaranteeing this is to show who you truly are through your personal statement.

Once you have crafted a full outline, begin to write a rough draft of your body paragraphs. At this point, you still do not need to worry about choosing the best words or making sure that the stylistic elements of your body paragraphs are top notch. Focus on getting your thoughts out on paper in a way that makes sense and flows well in terms of a logical progression of ideas. So, how many experiences should you write about in your personal statement? While there is no concrete number you should aim for, do be selective about which experiences you choose to include. Think quality over quantity. Essentially, as you answer the question “Why do you want to be a pharmacist?”, trace the origin of your interest in studying pharmacy through each stage of its development. Given the 4500-character limit, at least for most pharmacy programs in the United States, you will have to limit your discussion to two to three experiences, depending upon the level of depth of your discussion of each experience.

Which kinds of experiences work best? Keeping in mind that the experiences you decide to address and the way in which you write about them should be authentic to you, aim for experiences that involve exposure to the field. Of course, exposure to pharmacy can come in many forms! Perhaps you were exposed to pharmacy and the positive impact it can make in people’s lives through your own use of prescribed pharmaceuticals to treat a chronic illness, which inspired you to learn more about how medications work. Or, maybe you were considering a career in either medicine or pharmacy, decided to shadow physicians and pharmacists alike to accrue more knowledge about the day-to-day responsibilities of each profession, and found yourself enamored with your pharmacy shadowing experience. In any case, make sure that you are specific about which aspects of your experience were particularly influential in your developing desire to study pharmacy and what convinced you that you would make a great pharmacist yourself!

Once you have completed your rough draft, take a day or so away from your statement so that you can achieve mental distance from your writing in order to review it with fresh eyes the next time you read it. With this new perspective, revise your body paragraphs, choosing the strongest vocabulary possible to convey your meaning. Remember, though, that it is important to be authentic, so don’t abuse your thesaurus! Work on strengthening the wording of your statement and try reading it out loud to see how well each sentence fits together. Rinse and repeat.

Tip #1: Be authentic.

The personal statement should explain why you want to study pharmacy, so your discussion of this should be true to your experiences. Instead of writing what you think would be appealing to admissions officers, present a genuine account of why you want to be a pharmacist and the experiences that led you to that conclusion. Inauthenticity is actually quite easy to detect, so it is always preferrable to be authentic.

Tip#2: Start early.

The strength of your personal statement is crucial, and with limited space to show the admissions committee who you are and why you are passionate about becoming a pharmacist, you will likely go through many drafts before you arrive at the final product. In order to accommodate multiple rounds of edits and give yourself time to gain mental distance from each draft before revising again, you must start early.

Tip#3: Get expert feedback.

Notice that we suggest expert feedback, not just feedback in general. Everyone can give you an opinion on the strength of your pharmacy school personal statement, but only a select few can give you constructive criticism that will actually serve to improve your statement. Trusted professors, pharmacist mentors, or admissions experts like the ones at BeMo are all great choices to give you informed and insightful advice.

Tip#4: Be concise.

Since you have limited space to convince your reader that you are passionate about pursuing pharmacy and would make an excellent future pharmacist, every word counts. Recount your experiences in a succinct manner so that you can maximize your character count and include valuable reflections that will demonstrate how strong of an applicant you are!

Tip#5: Avoid cliches.  

While it can definitely be tempting to rely upon commonly used motivations for pursuing pharmacy school like “to help others” or “to give back,” leaning upon these cliches will only hurt your application. Even though part of your motivation for becoming a pharmacist may genuinely be to help others, you need your statement to stand out. If hundreds of other applicants express the same sentiment, your sincere altruism may be lost in the crowd of other personal statements communicating the same thing. Further, helping others and giving back can be achieved in various careers. Your job is to convince the reader that you want to make that impact through pharmacy.

If you are applying to pharmacy schools in the United States, check out PharmCAS’ website to see if your program utilizes this application service.  If so, your personal statement will be restricted to 4,500 characters, including spaces.  If not, check out the program’s website to discover that school’s specific personal statement requirements.

On the other hand, if you are applying to pharmacy schools in Canada, you will need to go directly to that school’s website to see its specific requirements.  Some programs don’t require a personal statement at all.

No, some schools like the University of Toronto don’t require a personal statement or essay of any kind.  Double check the website(s) of your program(s) of choice to see what the specific requirements are.

Unless directed otherwise by your program of choice, your pharmacy personal statement should be structured like a traditional academic essay.  Include an introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.  Please see above for further details.

Overall, your personal statement should answer the question “Why do you want to be a pharmacist?” or “Why do you want to go to pharmacy school?”  Your answer to this question should show your reader why you want to pursue this career instead of telling them.  Show your desire to become a pharmacist by discussing key experiences that sparked your interest in pharmacy and developed that interest into a true passion.  Include experiences that exposed you to the profession, whether that is as a patient, working as a pharmacy assistant, or shadowing a pharmacist.

Although it may seem illogical, your introduction should be one of the last things that you write.  The introduction of your personal statement must introduce the content that appears in your 2-3 body paragraphs, so it makes sense to write your body paragraphs first in order to know which content you are introducing.  In order to capture your reader’s attention from the very beginning of your personal statement, the first sentence of your introduction should employ an opening hook that uses some sort of creative element to generate interest in your statement.  Opening hooks often use relevant quotes, pieces of dialogue, or vignettes of a particularly impactful experience to “hook” the reader and make them more invested in the document before them.  Following your opening hook, you should discuss the significance of it, whether that is how a quote relates to your life or an explanation of the significance of the situation described in your vignette.  Finally, your introduction should establish your interest in pharmacy and set the stage for the more substantial content that will follow in subsequent body paragraphs.

The conclusion of your personal statement should not just be a summary of the content covered.  Rather, it should be comprised of reflections upon the experiences you’ve described, draw connections among your experiences, and/or discuss future goals in the field of pharmacy.  Make sure that the last sentence of your conclusion leaves the reader wanting to know more about you.  How memorable your statement is depends heavily on your last sentence, so you should use a creative approach as you did with your opening hook.  Some applicants find it useful to refer back to their opening hook in a creative way.  Try out different endings and see which works best with the statement you’ve written!

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• Personal Statements for PhD Study

Written by Mark Bennett

Universities often ask prospective students to provide a personal statement for PhD study. This is likely to be a key part of your PhD application .

Whereas your research proposal explains the potential of your project, your personal statement (also known as a PhD statement of purpose) demonstrates your suitability for doctoral work in general.

Writing a PhD personal statement can seem challenging, but it’s also a valuable opportunity to state what you have to offer and ‘sell yourself’ as a PhD candidate.

This page explains how to write a PhD personal statement, including suggestions for an effective structure and some additional tips for success.

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What is a PhD statement for?

A personal statement provides additional information on a PhD applicant’s academic background, relevant experience and motivations for undertaking postgraduate research.

It is different from a PhD proposal, which outlines a particular research topic, explaining its aims, methodology and scholarly or scientific value.

Put simply, if a PhD is a unique individual project (and it is) then your personal statement shows that you’re the kind of unique individual who can complete one.

The form it takes can vary. Universities may include a space for a personal statement in their application materials, or they might ask you to submit it as a separate document or in place of a covering letter . Make sure you check what’s required before you start writing.

Will I have to write a personal statement for a PhD programme?

Not necessarily. Some PhD applications don’t actually ask for a separate personal statement. This may be because the admissions tutors want to focus on your research proposal instead (and leave other details for interview questions ).

A personal statement is very likely to be requested if you you’re applying to an advertised project with pre-defined aims and objectives (and aren’t submitting your own PhD proposal). If so, it will be your main chance to say why you’re the best student for this position.

Who will read it?

Your PhD statement may end up being read and considered by various people:

• Admissions tutors will check that you have relevant experience and qualifications for this programme and that these are up to the standard expected of a PhD candidate.
• Potential supervisors will be interested in your specific academic background as well as your motivations for working in their department or research group.
• Interview panellists (who may include admissions tutors and supervisors) will probably consult your personal statement when preparing questions for you .

These people will be interested in slightly different things, but don’t worry: a good statement should be able to satisfy all of them.

What is a PhD statement of purpose?

If you’re applying for a PhD programme at an American grad school , you may be asked to provide a ‘PhD statement of purpose’.

A PhD statement of purpose (SOP) is your chance to demonstrate that you’re an ideal fit for the grad school in question.

It’s essentially the equivalent of a personal statement, but you should check the application details for your preferred institution to make sure you’re covering everything you need to. Always follow the conventions of the country that your prospective programme is in.

What should my PhD personal statement include?

The exact content of your PhD statement of purpose will depend on the kind of project you’re applying for and the requirements set by your university.

You should check the latter carefully. If the admission guidelines ask for your personal statement to refer to specific details (such as motivations, career goals, your choice of university, etc) make sure it does.

In general, your PhD statement should cover the following topics:

1. What is your background?

Keep this relevant (and fairly brief). Admissions tutors and supervisors will be interested in what’s brought you to choose a PhD, but they won’t need to know your life story (and you won’t have time to tell it to them).

If your interest in your subject was inspired in childhood, feel free to say so. But focus on the interest, not the childhood.

2. Why do you want to research this topic?

Every personal statement needs to explain your motivation for taking on a PhD, but what you include here will depend on the kind of PhD you want to take on.

If you’re also submitting a separate research proposal you should probably focus more on why you want to research a PhD than the specific topic you’re proposing to research (that, after all, is what your research proposal is for).

If you’re applying for an advertised project (and not proposing your own research) you should say something about your interest in that PhD: what interests you about it and what you can bring to it.

3. What academic experience do you have?

Your personal statement isn’t a CV, so avoid simply listing qualifications you’ve detailed elsewhere in your application (on your CV , for example).

But your personal statement is a chance to comment on your CV and explain the significance of those qualifications for your PhD application. This is vital if you want to stand out from the crowd.

Most PhD applicants are academically excellent. Be proud of your own results, but explain what those degrees (including specific units and dissertation projects) taught you about the subject you now want to research.

4. What extra-curricular experience do you have?

Another way to build upon your academic qualifications is to include other experience that has also demonstrated (or developed) relevant skills for your PhD.

Again, relevance is key. You may also wish to include one or two examples of your wider experience and achievements, but the focus should be on your suitability for PhD study.

Examples of your character and qualities may be relevant for some projects – particularly those with a charitable focus, human-interest angle or clear social benefits / outcomes. Otherwise, try to stick to relevant skills such as organisation, independent project management, self-motivation, etc.

5. What are your broader goals and motivations?

It’s a good idea to say something about how this PhD fits into your wider aims and career goals.

The specifics of what you plan to do after your doctorate may not matter to your admissions tutors, but the fact that you have plans and can show that a PhD fits them demonstrates that you’ve thought seriously about a doctorate and are likely to commit to overcoming the challenges it involves.

6. Are there any other areas or issues arising from your CV?

Your personal statement is a great opportunity to expand upon your CV.

That could mean providing more detail about academic degrees (as above). But it can also mean explaining any gaps or irregularities and anticipating some of the questions they might raise.

Perhaps you didn’t do as well as you hoped on your undergraduate degree, but went on to find your niche and succeed with a more specialised Masters. It’s OK to acknowledge and explain that if so – particularly if your Masters relates closely to your PhD.

Similarly, if there’s a gap in your CV, it’s better to explain it than leave any begged questions – particularly if there’s a perfectly good reason why you weren’t working or studying at that point.

How to write a PhD personal statement

Crafting a good PhD personal statement requires discipline and planning.

Writing about yourself may not seem particularly hard, but selecting, sequencing and organising your material can be harder than it seems. You know a lot about you, after all, but you only have so much time and space. Speaking of which:

How long should a PhD personal statement be?

A PhD personal statement should be 400-500 words, fitting on one side of an A4 sheet of paper. Your university may set a specific word count or maximum length, so make sure to check the application details.

Either way, you should aim to be disciplined and concise. There are two reasons for this:

One is that the ability to think – and express yourself – clearly is a key PhD skill in all subject areas. There’s no harm in demonstrating it now.

The other is that admissions tutors and prospective supervisors are people. People who may well have a lot of personal statements and applications to assess, besides yours. If you give them a long essay to read, they might not.

How should I structure my statement?

The sequence above actually provides a good ‘spine’ for a personal statement (with roughly a paragraph or two for each section):

Start with a quick introduction, explaining who you are and what your background is. Try to have this progress naturally into your research interests and your choice of PhD and university.

From there you can move on, logically, to expanding on your skills and experience and how these make you a good fit for the PhD in question. If you wish to comment on other areas of your CV, do so at appropriate points here.

Finally, you can conclude with a section on your longer-term goals and aspirations.

What writing style should I use?

The ‘personal’ aspect of your statement should extend to its content (it’s a document about you) but not necessarily to its tone (it’s also a professional document, part of an application for a specific role).

That doesn’t mean you can’t express yourself (your reader will want to see that you’re passionate about your subject and enthusiastic about PhD research) but keep things professional and relevant.

These guidelines should also extend to way you write. Try to stick to short sentences and express yourself with clarity and precision. After all, a personal statement that’s easy to read is more likely to be read.

What extra-curricular experience do you have?

What are your broader goals and motivations, are there any other areas or issues arising from your cv, learn more about phd applications.

There are several components of a PhD application , besides your personal statement or statement of purpose. Our guides cover references , research proposals , academic CVs , cover letters and more.

Tips for writing your PhD personal statement

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice.

Some of the ingredients for a great PhD statement vary from project to project and from student to student (it’s a personal statement, after all).

But the following general tips are still worth bearing in mind:

• Keep it relevant – Remember that this is a statement about you as a potential PhD student, not just a statement about you.
• Don’t duplicate your research proposal – A personal statement and a research proposal are two separate things. If you’re submitting both, make sure they cover different (and appropriate) ground.
• Be honest – If you’re lucky, the content of your personal statement could end up informing questions at your PhD interview . Don’t let embellishments or inaccuracies turn those into awkward questions.
• Look for guidelines – If your university asks you to cover something specific in your proposal, make sure you do so. The same applies to space limits or word counts.
• Think of the statement as a beginning, not an end – Resist the temptation to include everything, ‘just in case’. By focussing on the most important elements you’ll improve the clarity of your statement and increase your chance of covering other details at your interview.
• Address questions arising from elsewhere – If there’s a gap in your CV or an issue with one of your references, your personal statement can be an opportunity to (briefly) explain that.
• State, don’t plead - This isn’t a letter asking to be given a PhD place. It’s a statement showing why you should be given a PhD place. That’s even more important if there’s funding involved.
• Be confident – By the same token, don’t be afraid to demonstrate self-belief. Express your skills and achievements honestly, but be proud of what they represent.

Finally, before you submit your statement (and the rest of your PhD application ) ask someone who knows you to read it. They could be a friend, an employer, a current tutor or even one of your referees .

Either way, they’ll have a fresh perspective on your statement and will be able to tell you if it makes sense and comes across effectively. If they know you (and your work) well enough they may also be able to spot any details you’ve missed, or suggest ways to improve what you have included.

Ready to apply for a PhD?

Head over to our course search to find PhD opportunities and get in contact with universities.

You may also like...

We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.

Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

A checklist of the things you'll need to do when making an international PhD application, from meeting the entry requirements to sorting out your visa.

What documents you need for a complete study abroad application, what they are and what they should and should not include.

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Pharmacology Personal Statement

Sample Pharmacology Personal Statement

My ambition to study Pharmacology and to devote my career to working in this field has been inspired by my deep interest in the science involved in drug formulation and the way chemicals affect the working of the body. It is also important to me that I should be able to use the skills and knowledge I have to help other people, particularly those who are vulnerable or in pain.

I have a clear understanding of the role of the Pharmacist in the community and the way he or she is valued. People often seem to consult the local Pharmacist before they go to their doctor, which means that the Pharmacist is in some ways the “front line” in the healthcare system. To be able to hold a position like this in the community, to have the skill to advise and assist people who are unwell and to gain their trust and respect, offers the prospect of real personal and professional satisfaction. I am also excited by the way therapeutic medicine and the design of drugs are making striking progress in the treatment of hitherto intractable diseases. There have been successes recently in the drug treatment of many types of cancer, thanks to the pharmaceutical research that has produced such effective medication. It is clear that there is much more yet to be discovered and explored, and my hope is that I could go on to complete a PhD in Pharmacy and then make a contribution to the breakthroughs of the future.

I read New Scientist every week and make an effort to keep abreast of new developments through following stories in the media. I have read a number of books in my subject and studied many topics in biochemistry and Pharmacology, and this has helped me to understand cell signalling and the role different proteins play in harming or repairing DNA. I am interested in the way certain chemicals can alter cell signalling, and how understanding this phenomenon might be useful in modifying drugs in order to benefit the patient. I am keen to explore cell biology and physiology, the pathways which play a part in maintaining the internal systems and environment of the body, as well as the principles of immunology and the increasingly important topic of biotechnology. One of the driving factors behind my ambitions is my own history of poor health. I suffered from Spinal TB and took many years to recover. Unfortunately my illness was at its worst at the time of my A-level exams in 2006, and my performance was inevitably badly affected by my physical condition. I am now totally fit, however, and I am retaking my A-levels in Maths, Chemistry and Biology. I have very confidence that I shall achieve top grades in the summer, and prove my ability to offer unlimited energy to my goal of completing a Pharmacy degree successfully.

It has been impossible for me to undertake any work experience placements to add substance to my interest in the subject, but I very much believe that my reading has helped me to gain a good understanding of the Pharmacist’s role and career. I am fully aware of the weight of responsibility which he or she carries, and that dispensing demands total accuracy and care. I know too that the Pharmacist needs to have a clear understanding of the law and of all the concepts associated with the safe use of medicines, as well as of his or her place in the whole healthcare system.

A clear indication of my present physical fitness is my enjoyment of sports. I play cricket regularly, go to a gym and play snooker. I am bilingual, with Urdu as my mother tongue and fluent English, an asset which I believe could be useful in the community Pharmacist. I work hard and reliably, and particularly enjoy working alongside other people – an essential in the healthcare professions. I like to offer my views but also appreciate the chance to widen my own knowledge through exchanging ideas with others. I am fully committed to my goal, and believe I have the qualities to become a successful student and Pharmacist.

We hope this was a useful sample pharmacology personal statement

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Pharmacology, PhD

School of medicine.

The Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences hosts the Pharmacology Graduate Program, which offers a program of study and research leading to the Ph.D. degree. Research training opportunities within the program cover a broad spectrum of biomedical sciences including chemical biology, immunology, virology, cancer, and neuroscience. The mission of departmental research is to understand the molecular processes underlying physiology and pathology, and to apply this knowledge to discovering new drug targets and developing novel therapeutics. Within the program, students may choose to focus their efforts in any of a large number of specific research areas including signal transduction, structural biology and drug design, NMR spectroscopy, molecular genetics, cancer chemoprevention, viral immunosuppression, cancer immunology, cell-mediated immunity, mechanisms of HIV infection, vaccine development, glycobiology, biomedical mass spectrometry, clinical pharmacology, drug delivery, anti-parasite drug development, histone acetylation and gene regulation, melatonin and circadian rhythm, drug metabolism, Vitamin D pharmacology, natural product biosynthesis, telomerase and chromosome stability, T cell activation and tolerance, DNA repair, DNA topoisomerases, molecular imaging, and the clinical pharmacology of cardiovascular agents. The department is also pleased to host students and award doctoral degrees to M.D./Ph.D. degree candidates and students in other Ph.D. graduate programs in which Pharmacology faculty participate (Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Immunology, Neuroscience, and Pathobiology).

Financial Support

Financial support covering normal living costs, individual medical insurance, and tuition is provided.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should have a B.A. or B.S. degree with a major in any of the biological or physical sciences. Entering students are expected to have completed college-level courses in chemistry (inorganic, organic, and physical), calculus, and physics; a strong background in biochemistry is particularly desirable. A completed application form, at least three letters of recommendation, undergraduate transcripts, and a statement of interest must be received by December 8th.

Program Requirements

Students in the Pharmacology program must successfully complete the following courses:

Students must also take two advanced elective courses selected from those offered by this or other departments. Students are able to select a course of studies uniquely suited to their own career goals.

During their first year of study, students will complete ~10-week research rotations in addition to their coursework. They will initiate dissertation research by the end of their first year and complete elective courses relevant to their developing interests in subsequent years of training.

During the second year of study, students will be required to pass a qualifying examination conducted as prescribed by the Doctor of Philosophy Board of the University. This examination will probe the depth and breadth of the student’s knowledge of the biomedical subjects taught in the core courses.

The candidate is required to present a written dissertation based on original research undertaken while in residence as a graduate student and to present a departmental seminar describing the thesis research.

Combined M.D.-Ph.D. Degrees

Students seeking admission to or who are already participating in the M.D. program in the School of Medicine may participate in a program leading to both the M.D. and the Ph.D. degrees.

The pharmacology PhD enables students to specialize in the study of the actions of drugs and their effects in living systems. In addition to the opportunity for developing a sound knowledge base through coursework and seminars, the program is designed to strengthen students’ ability to understand  and evaluate critically current pharmacology literature, informing the students’ independent laboratory research that advances our understanding of drugs, their actions, and their pharmacotherapeutic applications. Recent graduates with a pharmacology PhD have found employment in academic and industrial research positions.

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In addition to developing a sound knowledge base through course work and seminars, the program is designed to strengthen the student’s ability to comprehend and to evaluate critically the current literature, allowing the conduct of significant independent research. Recent graduates with a PhD in pharmacology have found employment in academic or industrial research positions.

Where They Work

• Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research

What They Do

• Healthcare Services
• Business Development

What They’re Skilled At

• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Cell Culture
• Biotechnology

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $50
• Three letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal Statement
• Official GRE scores
• TOEFL for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English
• Please note all international applicants will need to provide a WES evaluation.  Link to WES: https://www.wes.org/

Admissions deadline for Fall term: December 6

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Pharmacology

Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Pharmacy Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Pharmacists
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Pharmacy Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2
• Personal Statement Example 3
• Personal Statement Example 4
• Personal Statement Example 5

Hello, future health professionals! Ever contemplated how medicines affect the human body? Interested in the science behind drug discovery, development, and therapeutic use?

If so, a degree in Pharmacy may be your calling. This dynamic field will provide you with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference to patient care, understanding and influencing the use of medications in society. Ready to become an indispensable part of the healthcare system? Join us on this rewarding journey into the world of Pharmacy.

Pharmacy is an interesting and relevant choice for students because it is a growing field that offers a variety of career opportunities. Pharmacy is a healthcare profession that involves the preparation, dispensing, and monitoring of medication and other health-related products.

Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of medications, as well as providing patient education and counseling. This university course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful pharmacist. It covers topics such as pharmacology, pharmaceutical calculations, drug interactions, compounding, dispensing, and patient counseling.

In addition, students will learn about the legal and ethical responsibilities of a pharmacist, as well as the business aspects of the profession. With the increasing demand for pharmacists, a degree in pharmacy can open up many career opportunities in a variety of settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A person with a degree in pharmacy can pursue a variety of careers and professions, including:

1. Clinical Pharmacist: Clinical pharmacists work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings to dispense medications, monitor patient drug therapies, and provide patient education.

2. Community Pharmacist: Community pharmacists work in retail pharmacies, providing medication and health advice to customers.

3. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Pharmaceutical sales representatives work for pharmaceutical companies, promoting and selling their products to healthcare professionals.

4. Pharmaceutical Scientist: Pharmaceutical scientists conduct research and develop new drugs and treatments.

5. Regulatory Affairs Manager: Regulatory affairs managers work for pharmaceutical companies, ensuring that their products comply with all relevant regulations.

6. Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications.

7. Compounding Pharmacist: Compounding pharmacists specialize in preparing customized medications for individual patients.

8. Pharmacy Informatics Specialist: Pharmacy informatics specialists use technology to manage patient information and medication data.

9. Academic Pharmacist: Academic pharmacists teach and conduct research in universities and colleges.

10. Pharmaceutical Consultant: Pharmaceutical consultants provide advice and guidance to pharmaceutical companies on a variety of topics.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into a pharmacy course at a UK university, applicants must have achieved a minimum of three A-Levels, with at least two of them being in science-related subjects. The third A-Level can be in any subject, although some universities may prefer it to be in a science-related subject. Additionally, some universities may require applicants to have achieved a minimum grade in their A-Levels, such as a C or higher.

In terms of prerequisites, applicants must have a good understanding of mathematics and science, including chemistry, biology and physics. They must also have a good understanding of the English language, both written and spoken.

The entry criteria for a pharmacy course is generally similar to other courses in the sciences and healthcare fields. However, some universities may require applicants to have achieved higher grades in their A-Levels or may require applicants to have achieved a minimum grade in their A-Levels, such as a C or higher. Additionally, some universities may require applicants to have achieved a minimum grade in their GCSEs , such as a B or higher.

UK Earnings Potential For Pharmacists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in pharmacy vary depending on the job role and the country in which they are employed. In the UK, pharmacists typically earn an average salary of £40,000 – £50,000 per year. The salary range can vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and location.

Recent trends in the job market suggest that the demand for pharmacists is increasing. This is due to the growing demand for prescription medications, as well as the increasing complexity of the healthcare system. As a result, pharmacists are in high demand and salaries are expected to increase in the future.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to pharmacy include pharmaceutical science, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology.

Pharmaceutical science focuses on the development and production of drugs, while medicinal chemistry focuses on the design and synthesis of drugs.

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs interact with the body and how they are used to treat diseases. The key differences between these courses is that pharmacy focuses on the application of drugs in the clinical setting, while the other courses focus on the development and production of drugs.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in the pharmacy course at a UK university typically include pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, pharmacy practice, and pharmaceutics.

Pharmaceutical sciences modules typically include topics such as drug discovery and development, drug design, pharmacokinetics, and drug delivery systems.

Pharmacology modules typically include topics such as drug-receptor interactions, drug metabolism, and pharmacodynamics.

Pharmacotherapeutics modules typically include topics such as the principles of therapeutics, drug interactions, and the management of common diseases.

Pharmacy practice modules typically include topics such as the legal and ethical aspects of pharmacy practice, patient counselling, and communication skills.

Pharmaceutics modules typically include topics such as dosage forms, drug stability, and the manufacture of pharmaceuticals.

In addition to the theoretical aspects of the course, there is usually a significant amount of practical work and hands-on experience involved. This may include laboratory work, clinical placements, and the preparation and dispensing of medicines.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the course include Nobel Prize winner Sir Fraser Stoddart, who is a professor of chemistry at Northwestern University. He is known for his work in the development of molecular machines and has been recognized for his groundbreaking research in the field of nanotechnology. He has received numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016.

Other notable alumni from the course include former US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who was appointed by President Obama in 2014. He is a leader in public health and has been instrumental in the fight against the opioid epidemic.

Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the university’s Alumni Network. This includes an online platform that allows alumni to connect with one another and stay up to date on alumni events. Alumni can also join the university’s Alumni Association, which provides a variety of opportunities for alumni to stay connected and engaged with their alma mater.

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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.
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What to include in a Personal Statement

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Personal statement example pharmacy (masters) personal statement.

Submitted by Hasnan

Pharmacology will give you a range of career options

Gain a highly sought-after qualification by studying Pharmacology and benefit from the state-of-the-art STEM labs at Bedfordshire.

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 interest for the organic and aromatic side of chemistry. I have always enjoyed Maths and Science throughout my education, and I recognise that these are extremely useful tools for a successful career in Pharmacy. From studying Maths, my problem solving skills have flourished, which will enable me to use this to my advantage if an unexpected situation occurs in the future. I have found Chemistry and Biology thought-provoking, and classroom practicals have been a major factor for me entering the field of pharmacy. I particularly enjoy seeing for myself the reactions described in books. I have gained interest from a book on ‘The Brief History Of Pharmacy and Pharmaceuticals’, edited by Stuart Anderson. It explained that pharmacy is a fast-developing profession with a rich history, playing a fundamental role in our society for a large period of time.

I have a responsible role in school being a prefect since year eleven, where I provide ideas on improving the school environment to the Head of Sixth form, which requires diplomacy and good communications, necessary to become a competent pharmacist. I have completed the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award and I am currently in the midst of completing my Gold expedition. The practice and real expeditions pushed me and my team to the limit, and made us work as a team, and team-work is fundamental for a successful pharmacist. Last summer, I participated in NCS, where in the first week I did abseiling, which allowed me to conquer my fear of heights. This shows my tenacity and determination to reach and make new goals, which further shows my resilience. I also spent two months of volunteering at a Care Home, during which I spoke to and comforted the elderly. These experiences have involved interactions with numerous types of people and prove to have significantly boosted my confidence. I also spent two weeks’ work experience at Boots during which I worked as a sales assistant. This involved interactions with various types of people of different age groups and with unexpected needs. During this time, there was a pharmacy section inside the store, which piqued my curiosity. I observed an attentiveness in their work and found their attitude towards customers rewarding. Watching them for two weeks helping patients with desire and alertness, was the source of my original passion to be a part of this fascinating profession.

In my opinion, Pharmacy is not just about the usage of drugs, but it is also about showing care and being interactive with patients. Recently, via a home assessment, I have officially become a Young Carer, as I help my younger sibling who has a significant disability in her everyday life. As such, I have a great deal of experience and understanding in dealing with people with physical disabilities. Recently, I have also become a volunteer at Redbridge Forum, a charity organisation which aims to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities. My job is to lead a group of people who talk about the difficulties of their daily lives due to their siblings having special needs, which requires leadership skills, something that is highly thought of in the world of pharmacy.

In my spare time, I have a great interest in sports including cricket and tennis, regularly taking part both in school and externally. This has provided me with a healthy lifestyle. To conclude, I strongly believe that the vast number of life-changing experiences that I have had in my life has enabled me to gain the critical attributes required in order to become, which is my definitive goal, a professional and successful pharmacist.

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• Medicine personal statements

Personal Statement:Pharmacology 1

Pharmacology Personal Statement

“Pharmacology? Like farms and stuff?” “No, not exactly” I say to the third person to ask me in as many days. Farm animals may well have been a passion for me as a toddler but from primary school onwards my interest has been firmly fixed in the world of Science and Medicine. A school project on lungs coupled with a dad who answered all my questions, giving me knowledge which I only really started using in the first year of my A level biology course, really fired my imagination for the human body, it's functions and it's malfunctions. My dad runs a small community pharmacy that I have been working in part-time for almost four years and during that time my fascination for the human body has evolved to encompass the substances that can both heal and harm it. Having seen first hand how medicines can do both I feel compelled to contribute to this exciting and ever-changing field of science to increase the number of drugs that help us and understand the drugs that harm.

During my Biology and Chemistry As level courses I have found the practical work to be some of the most enjoyable. My favourite experiment was making a sample of aspirin in Chemistry. I found it amazing that a drug that has saved many hundreds of thousands of lives could be made by a seventeen year old in a college lab and the fact we only really found out how it worked in the 1970s made it even more impressive. To be able to make a discovery of such importance like that of Sir Jon Vane I feel would be an achievement of a lifetime.

This year I attended Bristol Biochemistry day which focussed on diabetes. This day gave me a real taste of what it would be like to study Pharmacology and how important the work of Pharmacologists and Biochemists is. I hope to study for an Mpharmacol which I would then love to take further to a Ph.D, potentially in something like Neuropharmacology. Neuropharmacology appeals in particular because there is so much we don't know about the brain. As we live longer diseases that afflict the brain and CNS are on the increase such as Dementia and Parkinson's and I feel that if a cure could be found then the quality of life for thousands of elderly people would be improved drastically. Overall I hope to become a researcher working on problems right at the cutting edge of the field.

As well as enjoying my studies I also enjoy having fun outside of college. I play the flute and am currently studying for my grade 5 theory and grade 8 practical exams. I also play the Irish whistle and attend a weekly folk club. I keep active by playing field hockey at my local club and I go rock climbing at an indoor wall. I love the outdoors and spend most of my free time with my friends, either hill walking, cycling or scrambling. I'd love to be able to continue my music and sport whilst at university and hope to be able to get involved with activities such as debating. At school I achieved the bronze Duke of Edinburgh award in which I was given the great responsibility of reading the map! I was also entered with the winning team into a Young Enterprise day at Intel in which I had to give a presentation selling a new product entirely in French. Reading is one of my favourite past times and I enjoy both fiction and non-fiction. I often read Chemistry and Biology review and some of my dad's journals such as PJ and C&D to broaden my knowledge of the advances within the Pharmaceutical industry. Earlier this year I completed a Pharmacy counter assistant course which gave me a basic knowledge of OTC medication. This has really helped my understanding of the practical applications of the medication I may one day help to create.

By studying Pharmacology at university I hope to be able to transform from someone who has only a little knowledge but a lot of enthusiasm for the subject into someone who is as knowledgeable as they are enthusiastic. Ultimately I hope to be able to conduct research that makes a real difference to people and how their illnesses are treated.

Universities Applied to:

• Bath University (Pharmacology w/yr in industry) - Offer BBB (Grades of offer) Firm
• Bristol University (Pharmacology w/yr in industry) - Offer BBB (Grades of offer) Insurance
• King's college London- (Pharmacology) - Offer AAB
• Aberdeen University (Pharmacology) ABB - Offer ABB
• Southampton University (Pharmacology) - Offer BBB

Grades Achieved:

General comments:, comments on the statement:.

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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. My parents moved to the Turks and Caicos Islands when I was four years old, in hopes of finding a better life for our family. Growing up, I watched both of my parents struggle financially, each one working at two jobs to provide for us. I have witnessed my mother's health decline as a result, making her life even more difficult. I have sat by her side, watching her take medication she will have to be on for the rest of life. There were days when the drugs that should have been her support left her struggling for breath, due to side effects. I have felt powerless watching her suffer, wanting to help her, but having neither the required knowledge nor the training to do so.

While in secondary school, I developed a passion for science, and, as a result of my mother's health condition, I also began to develop an interest in medicinal drugs and their effects on human metabolism. These combined factors made my decision to pursue a degree in Pharmacology, an obvious and resolute choice. I was determined to excel in my studies, and this led to my sitting and achieving creditable results in thirteen subjects in the CSEC examinations. My awards at graduation included Valedictorian of the graduating class, Outstanding Achievement in the Disciplines of Science, as well as the Police Award for the Most Disciplined Student. In order to achieve the goals I set for myself, I am pursuing Advanced Level studies in Biology, Chemistry, English Language and Mathematics. Although the complexity and volume of work are challenging, I hope to achieve the grades necessary for entrance to university. In addition to my A-Level studies, I am also a Senior Prefect and a Reading Mentor to junior students. These pastoral responsibilities have helped me to both develop my communication and leadership skills and appreciate the help of others. They also taught me perseverance and trustworthiness. Focusing only on academics would not have taken me this far. I have also attempted to balance my studies with my extra-curricular activities as a member of the Neo-Catechumenal community. I serve as a coordinator of the Youth Group at the Catholic Church. I was also a participant in the World Youth Day Pilgrimage to Koln, Germany, in the summer of 2005 and to Sydney, Australia, in the summer of 2008. All of the above experiences have enhanced my overall personal development, and helped me appreciate the importance of time-management. On a lighter note, I also enjoy playing softball and have participated in annual national tournaments with both my secondary schools. I found my work experience to be extremely meaningful and rewarding. I volunteered at two local medical clinics during my last two summer holidays. I was involved in a variety of medical procedures, observing operations, X-ray and mammogram procedures, and also assisted in the pharmaceutical and blood banking departments. Such experiences have further strengthened my decision to pursue a career in Pharmacology.

For the past thirteen years, the Turks and Caicos Islands have been my home and the source of many opportunities for my entire family. Presently, the Government is constructing two state-of-the-art hospitals, and the Turks and Caicos Islands will be in need of a large team of medically-trained professionals. Upon receiving the necessary medical training, it is my desire to return home to make a contribution to the medical services. Additionally, I will also be in position to aid the immense number of Haitians living on the islands. I share a common goal with them; that is, the active pursuit and fulfilment of a better life.

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Related Personal Statements

Tue, 22/09/2009 - 23:26

This is one of the personal statements that I will remember. Your tone is pleasant, your dedication is obvious, and your experiences are meaningful.

While reading your statement I got the impression you are a 'good person'. And to leave anyone reading it with that feeling, is a very positive thing.

I hope you will succeed. This world needs people like you!

i like this ps..it is sincere

Wed, 30/09/2009 - 17:42

i like this ps..it is sincere..i try to make a good ps as yours as i want to take pharmacology also..

Fantastic Personal Statement,

Wed, 08/12/2010 - 00:53

Fantastic Personal Statement, well written, and personal in a way that expresses your true feelings about pharmacology and your desire to study it! Well done. :D

Mon, 22/08/2011 - 19:21

Mon, 22/08/2011 - 19:22

I can really see how much you care from this ps. Did you get into your chosen unis? and what grades did you achieve?

Where did you apply to and

Mon, 22/10/2012 - 13:36

Where did you apply to and did u get the offers? :)

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Interdisciplinarity through internationality: results from a US-Mexico graduate course bridging computational and plant science

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Interdisciplinarity is used to integrate and synthesize new research directions between scientific domains, but it is not the only means by which to generate novelty by bringing diverse perspectives together. Internationality draws upon cultural and linguistic diversity that can potentially impact interdisciplinarity as well. We created an interdisciplinary class originally intended to bridge computational and plant science that eventually became international in scope, including students from the US and Mexico. We administered a survey over four years designed to evaluate student expertise. The first year of the survey included only US students and demonstrated that biology and computational student groups have distinct expertise but can learn the skills of the other group over the course of a semester. Modeling of survey responses shows that biological and computational science expertise is equally distributed between US and Mexico student groups, but that nonetheless these groups can be predicted based on survey responses due to sub-specialization within each domain. Unlike interdisciplinarity, differences arising from internationality are mostly static and do not change with educational intervention and include unique skills such as working across languages. We end by discussing a distinct form of interdisciplinarity that arises through internationality and the implications of globalizing research and education efforts.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

https://github.com/DanChitwood/interdisciplinary_international_education

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