Pharmacy has become one of today’s most rewarding career paths. With an increasing demand for pharmacists in retail stores, hospitals, and pharmaceutical sales, the profession offers significant potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 25 percent increase in pharmacists by 2020. Though the profession is on the rise, African-Americans only make up 7.1% of the workforce. With an average starting salary of $116,000, careers in pharmacy can improve the economic status of black families and communities.
BlackEnterprise.com caught up with three young pharmacists who took the path less traveled by pursuing a career in the industry. Their hard work has paid off and they share tips for entry and success in the industry for young professionals on the come up.
Setor Lotsu
Age: 33
Profession: Clinical Pharmacist
Daily Grind: Setor’s first introduction to pharmacy came while working as a cashier at Walgreen’s in high school. Upon the advice of the store’s pharmacist, she became a certified pharmacy technician—but that was just the beginning. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in bio-chemistry, and her Master’s degree in public health from Texas A&M, Setor pursued admission to pharmacy school and landed a spot at the College of Pharmacy at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia.
Today, Setor offers her pharmaceutical expertise as a Clinical Pharmacist at one of Houston’s largest county hospitals. Different from a retail pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacists engage more with doctors, review patient profiles, and make recommendations on pharmaceutical regimens.
Pros & Cons: Setor was most attracted to pharmacy because the profession offers more flexibility than other medical professions. Though she chose to complete a one-year pharmacy practice residency, the profession does not require post-graduate residencies like that of medical doctors. The option of going straight to work after pharmacy school is what attracts many students to pursue careers in pharmacy. Other than the general stresses that come as a result of patient care, Setor appreciates the diversity she experiences every day as a pharmacist.
Tips for the Trade: Dr. Lotsu urges budding young professionals to volunteer in one or more of the various settings where pharmacists work be
fore making a career decision.   “They might realize that they like one area more than the other,†she says. She also suggests seeking out the counsel of a mentor who can help guide you through the pharmacy school and job search process.Brian Keys
Age: 33
Profession: Managing Pharmacist
Daily Grind: With only a few years under his belt, Brian Keys has already achieved great success in his profession. Having been recently promoted to managing pharmacist, Keys oversees pharmacy technicians and pharmacists in the central pharmacy at one of Houston’s busiest hospitals. He is committed to ensuring prescription accuracy, high-quality patient care and reliable administration.
After working as a lab technician, Keys became fascinated with the profound impact that one small pill could have on someone’s condition. “Learning that a medication could change someone’s life†led him to ultimately pursue the profession. Pharmacists aren’t just “pill pushers,†he says. Instead he describes them as “drug experts†and takes pride in providing patient education and safety when it comes to medication.
Always Learning: Realizing that medicine is constantly evolving, Keys strives to remain knowledgeable of the latest advancements in the industry. “It’s important to stay relevant,†he says. When the demands of his career become overwhelming, Keys stays grounded through his passion for music. He plays the piano and is currently learning the guitar.
Tips for the Trade: Brian takes his job very seriously and encourages those interested in pharmacy to keep their minds open about all that the profession has to offer. Many black students shy away from careers in science and math, however, Keys’ position is that you shouldn’t be intimidated by the profession. If you are willing and dedicated, the hard work will certainly pay off, he adds.
Natasha Fougere
Age: 27
Profession: Pharmacist
Daily Grind: Natasha Fougere has maintained her connection to her home of Brooklyn, N.Y., throughout her education and career. After graduating from pharmacy school at Long Island University, Fougere completed her residency and now works in the outpatient pharmacy at one of Brooklyn’s top hospitals for trauma and surgery. Fougere doesn’t just dispense medication; She counsels patients, consults with doctors, and reviews patient regimens to ensure quality treatment plans are in place.
An admitted nerd, Natasha has always been interested in the sciences and wanted a career with patient interaction. Pharmacy was a perfect match. “I enjoy meeting the many new people that come through the pharmacy’s doors every day.â€
The Big Picture: Despite the very long hours on your feet and the
sometimes stressful workload, Fougere views pharmacy as a very rewarding career. She remains focused on the treatment of patients through medications that can change their lives. When she does get a break, she enjoys shopping and tries to get rest whenever possible.
Tips for the Trade: Fougere is very adamant about her profession and wants those interested in medical careers to know that “pharmacy is not the easy way out.â€Â She argues that pharmacy school is “very intense and extremely grueling.â€Â Like Fougere, if you do the work, research as much as possible, and expose yourself to all the possibilities, you’ll likely find yourself in an enjoyable career.
Aisha Taylor (@realTAYLORmade) is co-owner and chief consultant at TAYLORmade Professional Career Consulting, a Web-based, full-service career consulting company committed to “equipping, preparing, and empowering today’s professional†globally. Taylor holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina, a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Marist College, and a Master of Divinity Degree from New York Theological Seminary. She currently resides in Brooklyn, NY.