Michelle Byrne
I had always been interested in a career in healthcare and I loved science, in particular chemistry, in secondary school. Pharmacy was appealing to me as it is a career with lots of patient interaction, while also delving into the pharmacology and chemical nature of drugs. The degree gives you the best of both worlds!
I will always enjoy a good chemistry lecture. I really like how the chemistry we cover relates to key drugs we learn about in our systems-based modules. One of my favourite modules so far in the Pharmacy programme is the Central Nervous System (CNS) module we completed in second semester of second year. The module was split up into different themes, covering complex clinical topics such as neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, neurodegenerative diseases, medicinal chemistry of psychotropic medications and an introduction to mental health. It also delved into patient care of these conditions and conditions that may be seen over the counter in a community pharmacy, such as how to manage a headache.The content was covered in a variety of ways, from lectures and case-based workshops, to chemistry labs and our patient centred care labs, where patient scenarios are simulated and practiced in our dispensing lab. In all of our labs, we are able to get feedback from lecturers, demonstrators and peers which helps refine our practical skills. We also had the opportunity to sit in on ‘patient contact sessions’ and listened to real life stories from real patient advocates talking about conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease.
Although there was a lot covered in this module, I found it to be very interesting. The lecturers were very detailed and thorough which helped aid my understanding of the content, and they were always available to answer any questions that we had. The variety of ways in which content was delivered made the module very engaging and tied the clinical and practical sides of pharmacy well together. This module has definitely boosted my interest in clinical pharmacy, in particular in the neurology/mental health field in the future!
Currently, I am interested in a career in mental health pharmacy when I graduate as mental health is something I am very passionate about. I’m also very open to lecturing in the future! If I was to give one piece of advice for new students, easier said than done, but take care of yourself first and foremost. Starting fresh in a new environment can be daunting, however there are no rules when it comes to settling in. Give yourself all the time that you need, everybody’s journey will be different. Take breaks when you need to and keep up your hobbies!