College of Pharmacy

Student Perspectives: Kristopher S. Ingram

February 19, 2024 • Uncategorized

Achievement Awards: Pathways to Success in Pharmacy School

Kristopher S. Ingram, Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate, 2025, and Pharmacist Intern

Hometown: DeSoto, TX

Leadership Roles: President, Phi Delta Chi Professional Pharmacy Fraternity, Vice President, Black Professional Pharmacy Association, student liaison for the Student National Pharmaceutical Association & Student Ambassador

How did you get interested in becoming a pharmacist?

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, and from my perspective, the most impactful healthcare worker was a young black man who was the pharmacist and showed great care and empathy to her. When I got older and in high school, I realized how he went above and beyond the call of duty of his responsibilities to make sure she was taken care of with all of her medications and side effects. This inspired me to try and become that pharmacist that goes the extra mile, to ensure patients are taken care of.

What did the financial achievement award mean to you and your goal in pursuing a PharmD degree?

I still remember the day I officially got my scholarship offer letter and how enthusiastic and emotional it made me. Reading the letter from the college meant so much to me because it signified that they saw potential in me.

What are your future career aspirations?

My immediate career aspiration is to attend residency and become board-certified. Ultimately my goal is to become a staple in the Pharmacy world and impact many pharmacists to help them become the best pharmacists they can be. I believe that through effective leadership, I can do my part in making my community and the overall world healthier and a better place.

What advice would you give to students considering pharmacy school?

My advice to students considering pharmacy school is that the world of pharmacy is as vast as the ocean, whether you want to become a provider and impact patients directly, want to work for a pharmaceutical company and help make life-saving drugs, or even work towards making those life-saving drugs more affordable through different avenues. Pharmacy is incorporated in almost every aspect of life, and do not let anyone discourage you from it. You are enough, and if nobody else has told you I believe you are amazing, and the person you will become afterwards is unimaginable.