Recently, I had the opportunity to write an article for the February issue of Transitions, titled “Finding your best ‘yes’ as a new practitioner.” Shortly thereafter, I was asked to write a version for Student Pharmacist, since juggling responsibilities and opportunities is something that I struggled with far before adding the PharmD to the end of my name. My hope is to encourage you to make the most of your time as a student pharmacist. The approach I took during my 4 years of grad school is not the only approach, but it wound up working well for me.

My heart thumped with anticipation as the APhA–ASP National Executive Committee (NEC) stood together on the dark stage, the cheers growing louder. As we power-posed, the lights began to flash. With every flash, I remembered those I met throughout my APhA–ASP journey—the patients I counseled through Operation Heart, the lifelong friends I made at the Midyear Regional Meetings and Annual Meetings, and the first group hug we shared as national officers. It was powerful, sentimental, and hopeful all at once. It was a moment I wish I could have lived in forever.

Experiencing the APhA2018 APhA–ASP Opening General Session (OGS) as an APhA–ASP National Member-at-large was an exhilarating ride that is honestly hard to describe. I can say for sure that knowing every student pharmacist in that ballroom had begun a meaningful legacy that will last an eternity, elated my heart beyond anything I could have imagined!