One of the best decisions I made during my first year at MBKU was saying "yes" to opportunities that pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I attended club events on my own, including pharmacy socials and events with organizations like OCPhA and CSHP, even when I didn't know many people there. At first, it felt intimidating walking into a room by myself, but I quickly realized that everyone was there for the same reason: to learn, connect, and grow. I also challenged myself by running for class liaison on our class board and becoming a student ambassador. Those experiences introduced me to classmates, faculty, alumni, and pharmacists who have become mentors, friends, and valuable connections throughout pharmacy school.
It can be easy to wait until you have a friend to go with or feel completely comfortable before trying something new, but don't let that stop you. Some of the most rewarding experiences
happen when you take that first step on your own. Every event, conversation, and leadership opportunity helped me build confidence, strengthen my communication skills, and become more
involved in the pharmacy community. As I head into my second year, I'm grateful for the relationships I've built and excited to continue expanding my network as I work toward my future career. My advice to you is simple: say yes, introduce yourself, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You never know where one opportunity might lead, so take the chance and embrace every opportunity that comes your way. You've got this!
