Life After Pharmacy School: What Now?

Let’s talk about something that’s hardly ever mentioned — life after pharmacy school.

If you’re like me, back when you were in school, all you could think about was just making it to the end. Whether it was the end of the day, the semester, the year, or school altogether — you were probably just focused on getting to graduation.

But now that you’ve finally made it... what’s next?

As someone who has spent their entire life in school, how do you transition from full-time student to full-time adult? Whether you’re starting residency, jumping straight into the workforce, or figuring it out as you go — this phase takes patience, grace, and persistence.

Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way as someone who went straight from undergrad to pharmacy school, and then directly into the working world:

1. Accept the New Reality

Let’s be real — life doesn’t slow down after graduation. In fact, it often feels like it moves faster.

I don’t say that to sound pessimistic, but to be honest: there are no more built-in breaks.No three-month summer vacations. No cozy winter breaks. Fewer long weekends.

You have to be intentional about making time for yourself.

If you wait for the perfect break to rest — whether it’s the weekend or your next vacation — you’ll likely stay in a cycle of constant stress, unable to fully enjoy life. That’s why finding balance is so important.

Personally, this was the hardest part of becoming an adult. What do you mean I only get three weeks of vacation and five paid federal holidays?!

2. Find a Work-Life Balance That Works for You

You’re young. It’s okay to have fun, go out, and spend time with yourself — and you don’t have to hit a certain financial milestone to start enjoying your life.

Work within your budget. Here are a few simple ideas to start:

• Look up free or low-cost events in your city

• Go out to dinner (even if it’s just for appetizers!)

• Buy yourself something small but meaningful

• Take up a hobby

• Learn a new skill

• Travel — locally or internationally

And most importantly: use your PTO.

Find what helps you stay mentally, emotionally, and physically grounded, because life is about more than just waking up, working, eating, sleeping, and repeating.

3. Strengthen Your Community

One of the weirdest parts of graduating? Suddenly not seeing the same people every day.

Don’t let that keep you isolated. Keep in touch with friends from school and stay connected to your mentors. Plan weekly, monthly, or even occasional catch-ups that fit your schedule.

Also, don’t be afraid to make new connections. Whether it’s at work, in your neighborhood, or through hobbies, finding people you connect with will help you feel supported.

Remember those times in school when you didn’t feel like studying, but a friend motivated you, and it turned out to be a great session? That’s what community does.

Through life transitions and milestones, your people will help keep you going — and even push you into better.

4. Give Yourself Grace

Transitioning from full-time student to full-time adult is a major life shift.

It takes time, effort, and patience to adjust. You won’t have everything figured out all at once — and that’s okay.

Adulthood is about learning and evolving. You’ll stumble, but each fall brings a lesson. And with each lesson, you get back up stronger and move forward with more confidence.

Let’s Talk About It

🩺 To my fellow pharmacists: What was the biggest hurdle for you in transitioning from full-time student to full-time adult?

💊 To my seasoned pharmacists: What helped you overcome the challenges of this life shift?

Let’s keep the conversation going — because this part of the journey deserves just as much attention as the years leading up to it.

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — or pass this along to a recent grad who might need to hear it.