Why Should I Become a Pharmacist?

Are you considering choosing a career in pharmacy? Are you looking for reasons to become a pharmacist? Are you exploring career options in the medical field, and want to know the advantages of being a pharmacist? Are you good at science and want a related career? Here are a few reasons why you should become a pharmacist.

Reason to Become a Pharamacist #1: You won’t have any problem finding a job.

Pharmacists are in demand, and the need for pharmacists is expected to grow. Therefore, you shouldn’t have much problem finding a job. Unless you are very picky, say you specifically want to be a pharmacist in a specific small town, you won’t have any trouble landing a job. Most pharmacists land their first job before college graduation, with a sign-on bonus as well. Read “Help Wanted At Your Drugstore: Pharmacist Shortage Makes Grads Highly Sought After” for more insight.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #2: The pay is fantastic.

According to payscale.com, pharmacists earn between $75,000 and $114,000 / year. If you live in an area where the cost of living is reasonable, that salary will allow you to live very comfortably. That’s enough to live in a nice home, enjoy fun vacations, and even get a professional massage once a week. Sure, it’s lower that some other medical careers, such as physicians, but it could be worth it.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #3: The hours are flexible.

Yes, it is true that many pharmacists work nights and weekends. (That is one of the disadvantages of becoming a pharmacist.) However, some pharmacists can choose to work 8-5 or in 12 hour shifts a few days a week. In some pharmacies open 24 hours a day, you could choose to work the graveyard shift if you wanted. You can even find a part-time position, or do relief work if you’d prefer.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #4: You won’t have to be on call.

Unlike doctors, pharmacists generally do not have to carry a pager and be on call.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #5: You’ll have time for your family and social life.

Doctors generally work well over 40 hours a week. During their residency they work 80 hours or more. However, pharmacists usually do not work more than 40 hours a week. This allows more time for a family. It is also a wiser career choice for women who plan to be mothers. When they have children, they can work part-time or do relief work.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #6: There are various work settings to choose from.

Pharmacists can work in grocery store / drug store pharmacies, hospitals, or nursing homes. They can also find a job in the pharmaceutical industry, working for companies that either sell, manufacture, research or market medicine.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #7: You can be your own boss.

Many pharmacists own their own drug store and manage a pharmacy themselves. This is a job where you will essentially be your own boss.

Reason to Become a Pharmacist #8: You will be well respected in the community.

Pharmacists are often well respected. It is a career choice to be proud of. You are truly making a difference in the lives of others.

There are just eight reasons to choose a career in pharmacy. For some more tips, please read “Pharmacist Career Information: Tips for Future Pharmacy Students.” You also might check out “Pharmacy Camps: Camps For Students Interested in a Pharmacy Career.” Good luck with your future endeavors!

Sources:

http://www.usatoday.com/educate/college/careers/Hot/8-17-05.htm
http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Pharmacist/Salary
http://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/487/Pharmacist.html
Personal Experience

Reference:

• www.associatedcontent.com/article/2881376/pharmacy_camps_camps_for_students_intereste
• www.associatedcontent.com/article/2883970/pharmacist_career_information_tips.html?cat