November 2023 OPA Extern Profile: Leah Georgiades

Name: Leah Georgiades                                                                                    

E-mail: georgiades.5@osu.edu

Pharmacy School: The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy

Undergraduate degree/institution: Bachelors of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Ohio State University

Rotation Month at OPA: November 2023

How did you get interested in the profession of pharmacy?

Throughout my early education, I was most drawn to my science courses because I found the content engaging and fulfilling to learn. Like many people, I sought to help others in my future career, therefore, pursuing the healthcare field seemed to be a natural inclination. When beginning my higher-level education, a pharmacy career was a potential option, however, I wanted to experience some relevant coursework before committing. During my freshman year, I enrolled in an elective course regarding addicting drugs within our society and how these intersect with the field of pharmacy. It was taught by Dr. Lane Wallace, an exceptional professor who effectively conveyed to me the irreplicable role that pharmacists play within their communities. This new perspective, along with other information I was learning about the myriad of career paths within the field of pharmacy, assured me of my goal to become a pharmacist. Fortunately, my positive perception that developed then has grown immensely as I’ve progressed through my educational journey.

Why did you choose OPA as a rotation site?

During pharmacy school, I participated in an elective course about advocacy efforts in pharmacy, led by Drs. Jennifer Rodis and E. Michael Murphy. It was an incredibly inspiring experience where I learned how pharmacists unite to communicate with legislators about matters affecting the profession to enact tangible change. Following this course, I participated in OPA’s Student Legislative Day annually, where I always had a rewarding experience practicing what I had learned in the classroom.

While these experiences sparked my interest in pharmacy advocacy, they also allowed me to recognize that OPA is an invaluable organization that empowers pharmacists and students, invests in the profession, and facilitates meaningful connections. I was eager to apply for the rotation so I could learn more about the organization’s operations, staff, membership, and upcoming projects. Additionally, I viewed it as a great opportunity to develop networking skills, association management knowledge, written and verbal communication, knowledge of advocacy efforts and more through a dynamic and varied rotation. I am grateful to have achieved these goals throughout the rotation.

What was the most significant or surprising experience at OPA?

I have been fortunate to have a wide variety of experiences this month. One particularly memorable one was viewing the State Board of Pharmacy adjudication hearings. While witnessing a hearing is not a typical description for a rotation day, it was incredibly insightful to learn more about rules and regulations within the state, as well as the board itself.

I also had the opportunity to speak about my rotation experience during an office visit from The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy’s recently appointed dean, Dr. Deanna Kroetz. I was appreciative to be given this platform to highlight the numerous positive aspects of the rotation. Learning more about the organizations’ connections and joint efforts to propel positive change for pharmacists and students was very motivating.

Why I think it’s important to maintain my OPA membership after graduation.

As I near graduation, I am certain that I will maintain my OPA membership throughout my career. I see immense benefit in the continuing education and certification opportunities made available to members which are thoughtfully developed in accordance with therapeutic updates, changes in practice, and member feedback. Additionally, membership provides connection to other pharmacists in Ohio and events in the profession through many avenues such as annual events, journal issues and news updates, committees, special interest groups, and more. I believe that remaining a member will grant me access to a greater sense of connection to my colleagues and empowerment to impact the field than I could achieve otherwise.

What other pharmacy associations/organizations do you belong to?

Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists (SSHP)

Hobbies:

I enjoy taking ballet classes and learning to sew.