Scholarship Essay Entry – Taryn Z.

Throughout my childhood, I was recognized as a fun, spunky, and charismatic little girl. I kept myself busy with the numerous activities I had taken on; hockey, dance, baseball, handball, figure skating, or perhaps the never-ending hours of babysitting for the whole town, which I loved to do. In school I was a member of the grad committee, yearbook committee, and SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving).  My goals never went further than what was right in front of me; winning the hockey game, or performing the perfect saché in dance. However, after finishing the Pharmacy Technician program, I yearned for the chance to do something bigger and better. I had to become a Pharmacist.

After working at Jackson's Pharmasave in Innisfail as a Technician, I knew I was destined to work in the medical field. Everything about the pharmacy fascinated me, especially knowing that I was part of a team focused on improving the quality of life for our clients. I loved getting to know each customer personally, and made it my obligation to know them on a first-name basis, making the job that much more rewarding, particularly when they remembered my name and appreciated seeing me. One of my responsibilities was helping patients who could not easily access the store; therefore, I would go around once a week and deliver medication to their homes. I felt better about myself knowing that I was important to these people, and that they trusted me. Still, I found working as a Technician limiting, because as a Technician you are legally not allowed to counsel patients; an obstacle I would have to overcome. Thus, I enrolled in the Bachelor of Science Pre-Pharmacy program, and am currently in my last year before I apply to Pharmacy at the UofA.

I decided I was ready to go back to school and take on the intense course load of the Bachelor of Science Pre-Pharmacy program because of my aggressive and ambitious personality. I wanted to show everyone that I can do anything I set my mind to, and I will. Being a Pharmacist would open a window to many more opportunities in helping patients get the service they deserve. I'd like to be the person that patients look up to and come to for help, knowing that they will get someone who wants to lend a hand every time.

I am very competitive in everything I do (any friend of mine would vouch for that!), and I like to help out along the way. I am a team player, and I have great leadership qualities, as recognized by my hockey coach, since I was selected to be an assistant captain last year. I'm also exuberant enough to ensure that everyone is having a good time. With all these great qualities, I know I will be an amazing Pharmacist, who not only is passionate about her job, but will have patients who trust her and come to her for any question they need answered.