Chadley Uekman

Student Profiles – Rachael McCaleb ’14

Hometown: Little Rock, Ark.
Undergraduate degree/university: Bachelor of Science in Biology/Arkansas State University – Jonesboro

Background & Reason for Choosing Pharmacy
After finishing my degree at ASU, I worked for a year as a research technician in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at UAMS. After that I made the decision to pursue the pharmacy profession because it allows me to combine problem solving skills with patient interaction. I knew I wanted a career in the medical field and wanted to work with other health professionals to improve patient care. The scope of pharmacy continues to expand and is allowing pharmacists to use their knowledge in a variety of settings. I believe the opportunities for pharmacists are endless.

Choosing UAMS & Opportunities It Provides
Since I am from Little Rock I enjoy being back in my hometown. UAMS provides an opportunity for interprofessional networking since there are several other medical disciplines on campus. Also, the College of Pharmacy faculty is very invested and proactive about their students’ success.

Plans after Graduation
I plan to complete a residency in ambulatory care after I graduate. I would like to work in an independent pharmacy or work in an academic setting like UAMS.

Advice for Prospective Students
My advice would be to get involved in the pre-pharmacy organization at your school. It will give you a better understanding about the profession of pharmacy and will also help you get to know some of your potential classmates that might work with you in the future.

Leadership Roles
American Federation for Medical Research- Southern Society for Clinical Investigation Student Research Award, CVS Caremark Scholarship Recipient, UAMS APhA-ASP Patient Counseling Competition Runner-Up, UAMS College of Pharmacy Dean’s List, UAMS College of Pharmacy Summer Research Fellowship, UAMS Academy of Student Pharmacists P1 Student of the Year, UAMS 12th Street Health and Wellness Center Student Advisory Board Chair 2012, First Year Orientation Committee for Class of 2015 and 2016, UAMS Associated Student Government – Vice President and Treasurer, Academy of Student Pharmacist- Vice President of Patient Care Projects

Student Profile – Brandi Hamilton ’14

Hometown: Jonesboro, Ark.
Undergraduate major/university: Bachelor of Fine Arts – Theatre /Arkansas State University & pharmacy prerequisites/University of Central Arkansas

Background & Reason for Choosing Pharmacy
My background is heavy in the arts (vocal & instrumental music and theater). I worked as a pharmacy technician in college and later resumed this type of work after completing my degree, finding that I had a certain aptitude for the work. I felt I was at a standstill on my career path and ultimately decided to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

Choosing UAMS & Opportunities It Provides
Initially, the primary deciding factor was geographical. I learned later what an exceptional reputation UAMS College of Pharmacy has throughout the country. UAMS has an exceptionally strong and successful APhA-ASP chapter that provides financial reimbursement to assist with student pharmacists’ travel to meetings. At these meetings, I was inspired to get involved with our chapter and, ultimately, with APhA-ASP on the national level.

I now serve as the American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP) National President. Due to my involvement with political advocacy, the College of Pharmacy sent me to Washington, DC to represent the college at RxImpact Day, an event that gives student pharmacists the opportunity to make Capitol Hill visits to advocate for the profession of pharmacy to our legislators.

Plans after Graduation
I have a very specific “perfect world” career scenario, which includes working in association management.

Advice for Prospective Students
It is important to start developing yourself as a professional early. Maturity and communication skills are essential for success as a student pharmacist and as a practitioner. Be aware that pharmacy is a very small world and that bridges burned are quite difficult to rebuild. Where one typically hears about six degrees of separation, pharmacy has about two degrees. After admission, take advantage of networking opportunities, such as the APhA-ASP Midyear Regional Meetings and the APhA Annual Meeting and Exposition, and leadership opportunities, remembering that leadership isn’t necessarily about a title.

Something That Surprised You About Pharmacy School
The most surprising thing I have found since starting pharmacy school is the expansive array of areas of practice. The typical view of the pharmacist behind a counter in the community or in a hospital is merely the tip of the iceberg.

Student Profiles – Ashley Paladino ’15

Hometown: Fort Smith, Ark.
Undergraduate degree/university: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics/The University of Tulsa

Background & Reason for Choosing Pharmacy
In middle school, I became interested in a career in the medical field after my dad survived throat cancer. In high school and college, I excelled at mathematics and chemistry, and realized that pharmacy was a great fit for me.

Choosing UAMS & Opportunities It Provides
UAMS is a large medical center; and therefore, offers a large number of resources and opportunities on the campus where student go to class every day. UAMS College of Pharmacy has an established program with a history of developing students into pharmacists who excel in the field. I am excited to be able to be a part of such a great program so close to my family. One of my favorite things about the UAMS College of Pharmacy is its dedication to providing a variety of unique opportunities for its students.

Plans after Graduation
I am interested in pharmacy education, but have not made any concrete plans yet.

Advice for Prospective Students
Come to pharmacy school with the mindset that you are going to have to work hard, but that you will learn a lot of information that will help you become a great professional. There is always more information to learn. I truly feel like I am learning tons of new stuff every day, and I love it!

Leadership Roles
2011 – Present American Pharmacist Association- Academy of Student Pharmacists, 2012-2013 Vice President for Communications, 2012 Class Project Donations Committee Chair, 2012 – Present UAMS College of Pharmacy Assessment Committee, 2012 – Present UAMS Mission, Planning, & Evaluation Self Study Committee, 2012 – Present UAMS New Student Pharmacist Orientation Committee, 2011 – Present UAMS College of Pharmacy Honor Council Representative

Student Profiles – Ammon Martin ’16

Hometown: Conway, Ark.
Undergraduate major/university: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology/Hendrix College

Background & Reason for Choosing Pharmacy
I was born and raised in Conway, Ark. After graduating high school from there, I decided to attend Hendrix College and was a member of their basketball team. I chose pharmacy as my career path because I love to interact with people and I also love chemistry. Pharmacy intertwines these two items together resulting in the perfect career path for me.

Choosing UAMS & Opportunities It Provides
I wanted to stay close to my family and I heard nothing but good things about UAMS and the College of Pharmacy. I love how the professors are so approachable and willing to help anyway that they can. The professors encourage students to stop by their office if they do not understand something.

Plans after Graduation
My plan is to gain retail pharmacy experience after I graduate. My long-term goal is to own my own pharmacy one day.

Advice for Prospective Students
I suggest you try to understand organic chemistry while taking it as an undergraduate student because it will show up again. Another tip would be to study a little each day because it’s easier to prepare for the test. The information will also be retained longer.

Something That Surprised You About Pharmacy School
One thing that has surprised me about pharmacy school is how willing faculty members, pharmacy students in my class, and upper class pharmacy students are to help me.

Favorite Course
Drug information is my favorite class so far because it’s fun and very challenging to learn a large volume of drugs. Dr. Dunn does a good job of keeping it interesting.

Howell Foster Discusses the Top Reasons for Calls to the Poison Center on KATV

UAMS Pharmacy Students Getting the Word out about Organ Donation

Signing up to be an organ donor is one of the most generous things you can do — especially when you consider that a single donor can potentially save eight lives. That’s eight people who won’t have to spend agonizing months or years on the transplant waiting list, who will get a second chance, because you made the selfless decision to be a donor.

So far UAMS College of Pharmacy has presented organ donation awareness information and have taken organ donation pledges from Central High School students at their annual Health Fair, Central Arkansas Christian students at their high school, Van Buren High School Students, and Arkansas Tech College Students in Russellville.

Also UAMS students and employees at the “Get Swabbed” bone marrow donation registration drive and have been a part of the legislative session.

For more information, click here.

Future Pharmacists Essay Contest for High School Students

UAMS College of Pharmacy is excited to announce our Future Pharmacists Essay Contest for high school students. See contest directions and rules below.

Eligibility
Students must be enrolled in grades 9–12 at an Arkansas high school. Private school and home-schooled students at equivalent grade and age levels are also encouraged to enter.

Deadline for Submission
Essay submissions will be accepted now and must be postmarked by April 30, 2013 to be considered.

Topic
Research different areas of the pharmacy profession (list of areas provided below). Choose one that is of most interest to you, research the area chosen and explain why you selected it.

Academia
Community
Government
Clinical
Military
Independent Ownership
Nuclear
Pharmaceutical Industry
Long-term Care
Any specialty of pharmacy

Format
All essays must include an entry form that can be submitted online by clicking here or printed and submitted by mail or email with the essay. Essays must be at least 500 words and no more than 1000 words. Cover pages and bibliography are not included in the word count. The essay must be double-spaced and typed. An entry form must be provided with the submission of the essay.

Judging
Essays will be judged on the following criteria: content, overall organization of the essay, spelling, grammar, punctuation and ability to stay on topic. Judging will be completed by a panel of pharmacists (selected alumni from around the state) and concluded by May 31, 2013. Winners will be notified the first week of June 2013.

Winning Essays and Verification of Student Enrollment & Status
The UAMS College of Pharmacy (UAMSCOP) reserves the right to require prospective winners to provide verification of enrollment in an eligible school and their status as a 9 – 12 grade student during the time of selection prior to granting any award. If a student is unable to do so, the student will be deemed ineligible and his/her award will be granted to the next highest scoring student.

Awards
Eight winners will be selected, one from each of the Arkansas Pharmacists Association (APA) districts (see counties by district in the table below). Winners of each district will receive a cash prize of $250.00. All winners will be announced the first week of June 2013. Each winner will be honored individually at his/her district’s annual meeting held in September.

Submission Instructions
Only one essay per student may be submitted. Essays may be submitted via email or by U.S. Mail. Email submissions are submitted to [email protected]. The essay and entry form must be attached. The subject line of the email should read Submission for UAMSCOP Essay Contest. Email submissions should be received no later than 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, 2013. Essays received after this time or date will be disqualified.

Essays submitted by U.S. Mail are to be addressed to:
UAMSCOP
Attn: Christel Cater
4301 W. Markham St. #522
Little Rock, AR 72205-7199

The UAMSCOP cannot be responsible for lost or delayed mail or emails not received as noted above.

Participant’s name should appear only on your entry form and e-mail. Do not include name on page headers or footers. The title should be the heading for the document and it should list the district for the student submitting the essay.

By submitting an essay you are attesting that the work is entirely your original research and writing. By submitting an essay, you also agree that your essay will become the property of UAMSCOP and will not be returned. UAMSCOP reserves the right to print and display the essays and photographs of the winners. Any questions or requests for information may be submitted to [email protected].

Howell Foster Educates the Public about Dangers of Doubling Up on Cold, Allergy Meds on KARK

LITTLE ROCK, AR — It’s a time of the year many doctors admit can be tricky for patients, when the cold season isn’t quite over, yet the allergy season is already underway.

There are a few ways to treat both, but many aren’t aware of the dangers of treating them with over the counter medications.

Plants are blooming, but then there’s a cold snap, then warm weather followed by rainy days.

Doctors say the weather can throw your immune system for a loop this time of year.

“If you have allergy symptoms with a cold, you’re probably feeling pretty miserable,” Dr. Howell Foster, Director of Arkansas Poison Control Center says.

Dr. Foster says it’s not impossible to have symptoms for both at the same time, but treating both is where it gets tricky.

“They may actually duplicate the same drug in both products,” he says.

Sticking with over the counter medications with only one ingredient can help cut the risk of doubling up on certain ingredients.

“In a young, fairly healthy adult, duplicating therapy isn’t’ really a problem,” he says.

However, in younger or older patients, it can be a serious concern, which is why he suggests you always ask a pharmacist if you are taking multiple medications.

“If it’s later at night and you’re in Kroger and pharmacy is closed, feel free to call us and we’ll help you out,” Dr. Foster says.

The Poison Control Center is never more than a phone call away.

Dr. Foster says to remember that doubling up on certain ingredients in medications can be the same as driving under the influence, which is another reason to check with your doctor.

Faculty Member Establishes UAMS College of Pharmacy Scholarship

LITTLE ROCK – Jan Hastings, Pharm.D., longtime University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Pharmacy faculty member and her husband, Terry, of Benton, have made an initial leadership gift to establish an endowed scholarship.Jan Hastings is a UAMS graduate who now serves as associate dean for development. Terry Hastings is a captain with the Little Rock Police Department. The couple made the lead donation in honor of Jan Hastings’ parents, Bill Loe, Ph.D. of Hope, and the late Betty Loe.

The scholarship initially will provide an award of $1,000 per year to a student who meets the following criteria:

• Incoming first-year student
• Residency or undergraduate institution at time of acceptance in one of these southwest Arkansas counties: Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Garland, Grant, Hempstead, Howard, Hot Spring, Lafayette, Miller, Montgomery, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Polk, Saline or Union; or Bowie County, Texas
• Grade point average of 3.0 or greater on a 4.0 point scale
• Pharmacy College Admission Test score of 50 or higher

“With the establishment of this scholarship, I also honor my husband, who has supported me throughout my career and has established close ties with many pharmacists and students through his involvement in College,” Hastings said. “I also want to honor my parents for the sacrifices they made in order for me to become a pharmacist.”

Friends and family members who wish to donate to assist in reaching the goal of $25,000 should contact Ann Turney, director of development for the college, at 501- 688-6391 or [email protected] or give online at www.giving.uams.edu/s/1496/start.aspx.

Jan Hastings graduated from the UAMS College of Pharmacy in 1979 and earned a Pharm.D. in 1994. She joined the college’s faculty in 1993, serving as the coordinator of Advanced Community Pharmacy Experiences for 17 years. Terry Hastings is a captain with the Little Rock Police Department and the Commander of the Southwest Field Services Division.

UAMS is the state’s only comprehensive academic health center, with colleges of Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Health Professions and Public Health; a graduate school; a hospital; a statewide network of regional centers; and seven institutes: the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, the Jackson T. Stephens Spine & Neurosciences Institute, the Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy, the Harvey & Bernice Jones Eye Institute, the Psychiatric Research Institute, the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging and the Translational Research Institute. Named best Little Rock metropolitan area hospital by U.S. News & World Report, it is the only adult Level 1 trauma center in the state. UAMS has more than 2,800 students and 790 medical residents. It is the state’s largest public employer with more than 10,000 employees, including about 1,000 physicians and other professionals who provide care to patients at UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the VA Medical Center and UAMS’ Area Health Education Centers throughout the state. Visit www.uams.edu or www.uamshealth.com.

Arkansas Poison Center Celebrates National Poison Prevention Week

LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Poison Center at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Pharmacy joins poison centers around the country in celebrating National Poison Prevention Week March 17-23.

Since 1962, the President of the United States has proclaimed the third week of March as National Poison Prevention Week to raise awareness about the dangers of poisoning and how to prevent them. This year’s observance focuses on several poison prevention-related themes:

Monday, March 18 – Children Act Fast … So Do Poisons
Tuesday, March 19 – Poison Centers: Protecting Health While Saving You Time and Money
Wednesday, March 20 – Poisonings Span a Lifetime
Thursday, March 21 – Home, Safe, Home
Friday, March 22 – Spotlight on Prescription Painkillers

“The Arkansas Poison Center and America’s other 56 poison centers are committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of every American through poison prevention and free, confidential, expert medical services,” said Charlie Stutts, public educator for the Arkansas Poison Center at UAMS. “Our poison center responds to calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week in order to help those who have been exposed to toxic substances.”

The Arkansas Poison Center will celebrate the week with events including television appearances and personal visits to day care centers, schools and lecturing to various groups of the general public.

“Poisoning can occur at any time and to anyone,” Stutts said. “The Arkansas Poison Center works 24-7 to help those who have been exposed to a poison or to answer the public’s questions about a potential poisoning. We also reach out to our communities with information about how poisonings occur and ways to prevent them. Prevention is the best possible medicine.”

In 2011, U.S. poison centers answered more than 3.6 million calls, including about 2.3 million calls about human exposures to poisons, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers. About 90 percent of the people who called with poison emergencies were treated at home following the advice of poison center experts, saving millions of dollars in medical expenses.

“If the unthinkable happens, it’s good to know help is just a phone call away,” Stutts said. “Program your cell phone with the Poison Help number and post it near your home phone. 1-800-222-1222.”

National Poison Prevention Week, established by the U.S. Congress, is commissioned by the Poison Prevention Week Council, an organization of public and private partners committed to reducing unintentional poisonings and promoting poison prevention.