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October 2023 OPA Extern Profile: Amber Conklin
Name: Amber Conklin
E-mail: a-conklin.1@onu.edu
Pharmacy School: Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy
Undergraduate degree/institution: PharmD Candidate, Ohio Northern University
Rotation Month at OPA: October 2023
How did you get interested in the profession of pharmacy?
My family has a long history of pursuing the engineering profession so growing up I knew that I wanted to branch out. As I explored different career options, I couldn’t help but feel the strong pull towards medicine that all future healthcare professionals share. I excelled in science and math classes growing up and I joined the Healthcare Academy at my high school to start taking anatomy and biomedical science courses. I felt that pharmacists, especially in the community sector, are best positioned to work in preventative care. I remembered when pharmacists first got the ability to give immunizations and how that impacted patients. As a student with a strong desire to make positive change, I wanted to be a part of a growing healthcare profession that my community trusted. I knew that being a pharmacist would give me the opportunity to improve health outcomes through being a continuous learner and a resource that my community trusted.
Why did you choose OPA as a rotation site?
I thought this rotation would be a great experience to continue building my relationship with OPA. While completing the didactic portion of my pharmacy degree, I was heavily involved in extracurriculars such as OPA Student Legislative Day and OPA Innovative Pharmacy Business Plan Competition. These experiences had given me a glimpse of what the organization does, and I was curious to continue exploring all aspects of OPA. A rotation at the OPA is a unique experience and that can provide a well-rounded understanding of the pharmacy profession that will build on my clinical and therapeutic knowledge.
What was the most significant or surprising experience at OPA?
First, the opportunity to present to 1st graders in the surrounding community about medicine safety and the pharmacy profession was a truly impactful experience. It served as a poignant reminder of the crucial role pharmacists play in their local communities and the importance of maintaining trusted relationships with patients of all ages. This interaction with young students highlighted the profound influence pharmacists can have in educating the next generation about responsible medication use and the broader aspects of healthcare.
Secondly, witnessing Dave Burke R.Ph., MBA, the Executive Director of OPA, give testimony at the Ohio Statehouse for a bill that aimed to authorize pharmacy technicians to administer immunizations was significant. This bill held the promise of reducing the workload burden on many pharmacists, a development with far-reaching implications for the pharmacy profession. It was a moment that highlighted the potential for positive change and innovation within the field, while also emphasizing the role of OPA in advocating for advancements that benefit both pharmacists and their patients.
These experiences at OPA not only demonstrated the vital community involvement of pharmacists, but also the importance of their active engagement in legislative efforts to improve their profession and the healthcare system at large.
Why I think it’s important to maintain my OPA membership after graduation.
I believe it’s crucial to continue my membership with the Ohio Pharmacists Association after graduation for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it enables me to maintain valuable connections withing the field of pharmacy. These connections are not only professionally enriching but can also lead to mentorships opportunities and staying in touch with colleagues who share similar career interests. Secondly, an OPA membership provides access to the latest pharmacy updates in Ohio through their journals, publications, and emails. By staying engaged with these resources, I can remain up to date with current trends and best practices, which is vital in the ever-evolving field of pharmacy. Lastly, being an OPA member keeps me actively aware of legislative actions that directly affect my profession. It allows me to contribute to discussions, advocacy efforts, and community initiatives, thereby ensuring that I can make a meaningful impact and help shape the future of pharmacy in Ohio.
What other pharmacy associations/organizations do you belong to?
NCPA, APhA, AMCP, IPhO
Hobbies:
I am an avid traveler and have been to 22 countries, steadily approaching my goal of exploring 30 new countries before I turn 30 years old. Additionally, soccer is my all-time favorite sport, so I love watching a variety of leagues worldwide. I was able to attend a Columbus Crew while here for the month and I had such a fun time!
