Career Resources Overview

• The Office of Student Services uses three primary areas to assist students in furthering their career development. These areas are focused on: Self-Awareness, Exploring Career Options, and Preparation.
• The Career and Professional Foundations course sequence throughout the PharmD curriculum (PHAR 6715, 6730, 6745, and 6760) is built on these principles and provides students with opportunities to engage in all facets of their career development.
• APhA Career Pathways also provides comprehensive tools for pharmacy students to evaluate and develop their career paths.
• Career advisors are available for an individual career development consultation.

• Undertaking job search process can be a daunting task but developing a strategy, allocating dedicated time, and using tools and tips to organize your search can reduce stress and lead to a job that is a great fit for you.
• Utilize your career advisor to discuss your job search strategy, review your CV/resume or cover letter/letter of intent, or brainstorm your next networking steps.

• Establishing a network of professionals with whom you can connect provides opportunities to learn more about pharmacy careers. A well-established network can be useful for job searching as well. Use the Personal Branding Worksheet to craft a message and highlight the important points you want to share with any networking contact.
• Refer to this Networking Handout  for tips on having curious conversations.

• Written materials that convey your personal brand and connect your skills and qualities to a specific position include resumes or curriculum vitae (CVs) and cover letters.
• Handouts: CV/Resume Writing Basics, Sample CV, CV/Resume Writing Checklist, Cover Letters, and References.

• Interviews can be an intimidating part of a job search process, but with some preparation and research, you can feel confident in your ability to portray yourself effectively to a prospective employer. Click here for more tips on interviewing.
• Practice interviews using the video recording software InterviewStream.
• Contact your Career Advisor for an in-person mock interview.

Negotiating salary is an important part of a job search process and the impact extends well into your career. Equip yourself with basic knowledge of what to expect in salary negotiations. Remember that each employer and negotiation process will be unique. Consulting with a career advisor or mentors/others in your network is highly recommended.

Leveraging professional associations in your areas of career interest can help you connect to other professionals and access continuing education opportunities. Some professional associations have specific job boards for positions in their specific area of pharmacy. Here are a few organizations to get you started:

• Minnesota Pharmacists Association
• Minnesota Society of Health Systems Pharmacist
• Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy
• American Pharmacists Association
• American College of Clinical Pharmacy
• Industry Pharmacists Organization
• National Community Pharmacists Association