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Aug. 24, 2023

PGP Fundamentals: Being a Standout Candidate Part 1

PGP Fundamentals: Being a Standout Candidate Part 1

This episode is all about becoming a standout candidate for pharmacy residency. Joining us is Dr. Elizabeth Hearn, assistant professor and creator/host of the "Pharm5 Podcast." We'll explore essential strategies to set you apart in the competitive world of post-graduate training.

Questions we discuss:

  • Key factors that make a candidate stand out.
  • The role of grades in residency applications.
  • Importance of leadership experiences and approaching them strategically.
  • Maximizing the value of work experiences.
  • Significance of research experience for residency applicants.
  • Leveraging extracurricular activities to enhance your profile.
  • Balancing aspects within and beyond a candidate's control.
  • Selecting recommenders who can provide valuable insights.
  • Maintaining professionalism and effective communication.
  • The power of networking and building connections.
  • Authentic ways to stand out in your applications.
  • Final thoughts and advice for aspiring residency candidates.

This episode's take-aways:

  • Aim for a competitive GPA (around 2.75 to 3.0), balancing grades with other experiences.
  • Prioritize quality leadership roles over quantity.
  • Part-time work and small-scale research projects can make a difference.
  • Authenticity matters; be yourself and use social media professionally.
  • Building connections and networking can open unexpected opportunities.
  • Resilience and determination are as important as a perfect application.

What should you do now?

  • Reflect on your experiences and consider areas where you can grow.
  • Start building connections with mentors, peers, and colleagues.
  • Embrace authenticity and showcase your personality on professional platforms.

What should you do later?

  • Gradually build your application, focusing on clear organization and proofreading.
  • Carefully select recommenders who can provide specific insights.
  • Use social media for networking and stay informed about programs.

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Music | "Sweet" by LiQWYD

Watch: https://youtu.be/eIYlaVPdNYM

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