We invite you to join us as we continue our series on pharmacy school education and explore what’s involved in becoming a pharmacist.
Written by Katelin Rockey, Pharm.D. Candidate, University of Florida College of Pharmacy
Navigating the Second Year
In our ongoing journey through the UF Doctor of Pharmacy program, we move into the pivotal second year. After completing their foundational year and community pharmacy rotations during the summer, students return for their second year. This year is often regarded as the most challenging, with a strong emphasis on clinical knowledge and practical application.
During their second year at the UF College of Pharmacy, students focus on hospital pharmacy. Courses are meticulously organized by body system, allowing students to grasp both the medications and the disease states they treat. Examples of classes include Infectious Disease and Oncology, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary, and Gastrointestinal and Renal. These courses have intense workloads, and class sessions revolve around case-based discussions. Professors present real-world scenarios, prompting students to apply their knowledge to practical situations.
In addition to clinical classes, students explore other essential areas that extend their knowledge beyond the clinical. These include pharmacoeconomics, sterile compounding, and optional electives. These shorter yet valuable courses—such as pediatric and geriatrics, history of pharmacy, and non-sterile compounding—broaden students’ horizons and allows them to gain experience and exposure to different career paths.
Finally, second year ends in a similar way as the first year: students embark on a four-week rotation during the summer. Unlike the community pharmacy rotation in their first year, this experience places them in hospital pharmacies. Here, they learn more about infectious diseases, create presentations for preceptors, and shadow experienced pharmacists throughout the hospital. Ultimately, second year is a year of enormous growth, fostering confidence and honing their ability to engage in advanced clinical discussions.
