Patrice Jamison was just in ninth grade when she landed her first job working at a CVS pharmacy. It was there she learned the important role pharmacists play as part of a healthcare team.
“I immediately admired the relationship our lead pharmacist, Dr. Steele, had with the customers,” she recalled. “Often, they would come to the store before seeing their physician. If Dr. Steele couldn't provide a solution, he would recommend they visit their provider. They would frequently return with a prescription, making Dr. Steele the final medical professional they interacted with on their journey to being treated. I loved this dynamic and knew right away that I wanted to become a pharmacist.”
After completing her undergraduate degree in biochemistry at Georgia Gwinnett College, Jamison chose PCOM School of Pharmacy at PCOM Georgia for its convenient location in Gwinnett County. As a mother of two, the proximity to her children's school was a crucial factor in her decision.
PCOM School of Pharmacy, established in 2010, offers a comprehensive four-year Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program designed to meet the rising need for pharmacists in the South. The school's state-of-the-art facilities, including research and multi-use basic science laboratories, an anatomy laboratory, and the Simulation Center, provide students with an optimal learning environment.
What sets truly sets PCOM Georgia apart, according to Jamison, is the strong sense of community and support.
"I cherish the community I've built here. Over the past few years, my classmates and professors have become like family, providing a strong support system," she shared.
This supportive atmosphere has been crucial in helping her navigate the challenges of pharmacy school while raising two children.
The faculty at PCOM School of Pharmacy have also played a significant role in Jamison's journey.
“The pharmacy department here has amazing professors who go above and beyond to prepare us for what's to come,” she said. “Our professors never hesitate to drop by and help us with anything we’re struggling with.”
This support extends beyond academics, Jamison added. During her first year of pharmacy school, Jamison was going through a particularly challenging time when a faculty member offered support and advice.
“I remember crying in the hallway, and Dr. Sharma gave me a shoulder to cry on,” she said. “He scheduled a meeting with me and offered advice that helped me become not only a better student but a better parent. I will never forget that.”
Jamison said she could share similar stories about other PCOM School of Pharmacy faculty.
"They have played a huge part in our lives and embody the kind of pharmacist I aspire to be one day," she said.
As Jamison looks toward her future in pharmacy, she's considering community pharmacy or ambulatory care settings, driven by her love for frequent and direct patient interaction. Her ultimate goal is to give back to her community and serve the underserved.
For those considering pharmacy school, she offers valuable advice: "Know why you want to be a pharmacist because when times get tough, reflecting on the why is what will keep you motivated."
Although Jamison has wanted to be a pharmacist since she was a teenager, providing for her children and serving as a positive role model is what currently motivates her.
“I must accomplish this goal. They are depending on me,” she said. “Also, they see how hard I'm working to accomplish this goal, so it motivates them to work hard at what they want to accomplish.”
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