Cavan O'Kane

How and why I became interested in being appointed to the Pharmacy Student Forum Executive Committee

My interest in pursuing an appointment to the Pharmacy Student Forum Executive Committee (PSFEC) stemmed from my active involvement within the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacy (SSHP) at Temple University School of Pharmacy (TUSP). At the beginning of my student career, I sought out a professional organization that aligned with my interests: health-system pharmacy, mentorship, professional development, career advice, and networking. ASHP was the obvious choice. Within our SSHP chapter, I had the distinct pleasure to serve as the president for the 2017-2018 academic year. Additionally, I served as a member on the student workgroup within the Delaware Valley Society of Health-System Pharmacists (DVSHP), a regional chapter within the Pennsylvania Society of Health-System Pharmacists (PSHP). Because TUSP is in Philadelphia, PA, where two other schools/colleges of pharmacy reside, we have the unique privilege to collaborate between our SSHP chapters. This student workgroup assists in the organization of a residency/fellowship showcase, a student poster presentation event, and a student-led continuing education (CE) presentation program. My involvement on a collegiate and regional level demonstrated the impact that one can have as a student leader within ASHP and encouraged me to pursue a national role. I am honored to have been selected to serve as a member of the PSFEC. I look forward to working with ASHP student members across the country, supporting and strengthening SSHP activities and programs, and ultimately being an advocate for the profession of pharmacy.

Professional interests

• Academia
• Internal Medicine
• Ambulatory Care
• Health-System Administration

How being a member of ASHP has assisted in my personal and professional development

ASHP contributed immensely to my personal and professional growth. It has been the foundation of my pharmacy school experience. ASHP provides numerous opportunities for professional development such as the Curriculum Vitae reviews and mentorship programs. These services, as well as other student-centric initiatives, prepared me for various aspects of my student career. Additionally, ASHP has contributed significantly to my leadership development. It allowed me to progress from a student member within my student society to an Executive Committee member on the PSF. Lastly, ASHP has provided me numerous networking opportunities, which have been instrumental in my student career. This organization provides abundant opportunities and inspires me to pursue greater roles and responsibilities.

Goals for the year as a PSFEC Member

• Encourage student member involvement in the Practice Advancement Initiative (PAI) at local, state, and national level
• Advocate for leadership development and encourage student members to actively participate in various initiatives
• Increase SSHP chapter collaboration and involvement with ASHP initiatives
• Develop strong, professional relationships with my fellow PSFEC members and serve as a collaborative resource for all student members

Fun fact

I have been on two international service/mission trips: Port-au-Prince, Haiti and Luperón, Dominican Republic.

Contact email

[email protected]