Written by Natalie Williams
Pharmacy wasn’t always my first choice. Initially, I planned to become a nurse, following in my sister’s footsteps. However, when COVID-19 hit, I was no longer able to complete work experience in the hospital. Still determined to explore a health-related field, I spoke with people around me and was encouraged to try work experience in a community pharmacy.
When I started, the pharmacist made it clear that I wouldn’t be doing anything particularly exciting—no dispensing or handling medication. She explained that in this profession, precision is everything, and one small mistake could lead to serious consequences for a patient. But over the course of that week, I gained a completely new perspective on pharmacy. It wasn’t at all what I expected from the customer side of the counter.
Shortly after, I was offered a part-time job at the pharmacy. As I continued working, I found myself learning something new every day. Over time, my boss encouraged me to consider studying pharmacy, and I started to realise that this could be the right path for me. The more I learned, the more I appreciated just how important and diverse this profession really is.
Pharmacy is no longer just about dispensing medications. The role is expanding rapidly—pharmacists are now able to administer vaccines, prescribe for certain conditions, and even go on to complete a Doctor of Pharmacy. There are also so many career pathways: pharmacists work in hospitals, oncology units, research, medication manufacturing, GP clinics, and aged care settings.
Attending workshops, conferences, and networking events has only strengthened my decision. Being surrounded by professionals and students who share a passion for biology, chemistry, medicine, and helping others has made me feel like I truly belong in this field. Pharmacy has become more than just a career option—it’s a profession I’m excited to grow into.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
