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Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy
Reflections of an ICHP Mentor

College Connection

by Ani Bekelian, PS-3, ICHP Historian

As I entered my second year of pharmacy school, I wanted to join a professional organization that allowed me to develop my leadership skills and demonstrate my commitment to the profession that I have chosen. When looking for an organization to join, I wanted something that would provide me with vast networking opportunities as well as exposure to different practice settings and post-graduate training opportunities, such as residencies. As I am interested in working in either an ambulatory care or hospital setting, I felt joining an organization that promoted health-system pharmacy practice, such as ICHP, would be a great fit for me. After joining and spending the last year participating in the ICHP Historian committee and mentorship program, I feel that I made the right decision.

I was initially drawn to the ICHP student mentorship program because I saw it as a great opportunity to pass on the knowledge that I had learned as a first-year pharmacy student. Often, when one starts a program—whether it be an undergraduate or professional program—it can be difficult, and rather overwhelming, to navigate the unknown waters alone. I still remember, all too well, the challenges that I faced as a newly matriculated student. I felt that by participating in the ICHP student mentorship program my mentee could benefit from the tips and tricks that I have picked up along the way.

As an ICHP student mentor, I was given the opportunity to help guide my mentee through the MWU-ICHP student organization, in addition to acting as an advisor for any academic queries, comments, or concerns. Together, through the span of the academic year, we attended multiple ICHP sponsored social events, in addition to having multiple academic meetings. Through the process of the mentorship program, I not only developed a great networking contact, but also gained a valuable friend.

As an ICHP student mentor, I learned a lot about myself as a student as well as a young woman. Discussions regarding study habits, suggestions for research, and summer opportunities encouraged a lot of self-reflection as a mentor. This past year has provided me with valuable insight into my character, my professional and personal goals, as well as my outlook towards my studies and life-long career. It has allowed me to grow as a stronger student, a more confident leader, and a more passionate advocate for our profession.

The experiences that I have had through the mentorship program are ones that I will take with me into my next academic year. To the incoming PS2 and PS3 students, I highly recommend participating in the program as mentors as it provides a valuable opportunity for self-reflection and discovery. To the incoming PS1s, I highly recommend considering becoming mentees as the experiences you will have will serve you well throughout your time at school and beyond.