Meet Luis, Class of 2026.
Program
Pharmacy
Title
Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate
Professional Goals
My goal is to conduct pharmaceutical research and development in HIV prevention and treatment. I will investigate the safety and efficacy of novel antiretrovirals, drug delivery mechanisms, and emerging drug resistance patterns. I want to contribute to the development of HIV care and expand our current clinical repertoire so our community has access to quality treatment and we work towards the goal of eradicating HIV.
What Do You Know Now That You Wished You Knew as a P1 student?
My understanding of the breadth of career opportunities you can pursue with a Pharm.D. degree has changed significantly. Early in my pharmacy school journey, I explored academia through the national Aspiring Academics program under the mentorship of Dr. Hsia and Dr. Floren. I learned about industry pharmacy roles through informational interviews with several UCSF alumni working in rare oncology diseases, immunology, and neurology. Lastly during my third year while completing advanced pharmacy practice rotations, I learned about clinical pharmacy opportunities in harm reduction, substance use, psychopharmacotherapy clinics. I am thankful to have received exposure to different pathways, and I want current students to know there are tons of options for your postgraduate career! Take your time to decide what you want to pursue.
How Did the CPD Health Team Support Your Career Goals and/or Next Steps?
The CPD Health Team was pivotal in my career development. The career coaches are insightful and offer a fresh perspective when reviewing your application materials, practicing mock interviews, and offering niche professional development pearls. One career coach went above and beyond and connected me with the director of a clinical drug development fellowship program. As the Pharmacy Career Peer, my supervisor supported my applications to several programs which helped me secure offers for post-graduate opportunities. Go chat with the career coaches!