Tell us about your PATY experience?
So far my PATY experience has been fantastic. I wasn’t sure what to expect at the beginning and was a little apprehensive about the attention. It’s been so rewarding – not only to be acknowledged for putting in hard work, but also getting the opportunity to meet the amazing girls at the workshop. They were really outstanding, and it makes me happy to know the state has so many caring passionate people in this industry.
What was the workshop day like?
I felt I learnt new skills and got to meet other likeminded people in NT community pharmacy. It was good to talk to likeminded people, so I really enjoyed it.
Would you encourage others to participate in PATY in the future? Why?
Yes, I really would encourage others to get involved. It’s really a wonderful experience and to meet likeminded people that are as passionate about their career in pharmacy. It’s a worthwhile experience because you also learn lots of new skills.
How did you get started in pharmacy?
I have always been told I have a very caring manner and have always been interested in health care. My mum always thought I’d be a nurse, but I’m not great with blood.
I was studying Business at the time, when a friend encouraged me to apply for a role that was available in a pharmacy. When I came to Australia, my heart was still in pharmacy, and I knew there was nothing else I wanted to do.
You’ve been in pharmacy for a while, how has your interest evolved over that time?
I’m really motivated to learn more regarding chronic illness and interactions. Pharmacy Assistants are usually the first call for a lot of people who are unwell and to know I’ve helped the pharmacist and the patient in every way I can is very rewarding. I’m also excited to continue to learn new skills, and continue to grow my knowledge and passion for pharmacy. Pharmacy is constantly evolving, changing and challenging me.
You’ve worked in so many areas, do you have a favourite?
I don’t really have a favourite area, to be truly honest. Every day is different, and I’m constantly being pushed to learn and evolve. I love that there are so many different areas of pharmacy, it keeps me focused, and loving my job even when some days are harder and more challenging than others. If I had to say a favourite area, it would be customer service. I like having a positive impact on a customer, and knowing that I’ve helped them in some way.
What qualifications have you gained and how important is training to you?
I have a degree in Business and since working in Pharmacy in Australia I’ve gained my Community Pharmacy Certificate II and III. I’m about to undertake a certificate IV in Community Pharmacy.
Can you share a favourite story from your time in pharmacy?
We have elderly customers regular visit our pharmacy and every time I see them they are so happy to see us all, and they could stay and talk with us for hours.
I went away on a two week holiday, and they assumed I had left, so they wrote a poem called the ‘lovely Irish girl’ because they missed me! Darwin is a transient place, so it’s really nice to be able to establish warm, friendly relationships with customers and build a good connection.
What do you do in your spare time?
Spare time is a rarity these days as I’m currently studying but I’m very lucky to live in such a beautiful climate, so most days free are spent outdoors! I love sports and catching up with friends and family on my weekends.
What inspires you?
In the last few years I’ve been truly inspired by assisting people suffering pain and hardship from chronic illness or hidden battles. This comes from both personal and professional experiences. I’m so inspired by their ability to get up each day with a smile and cheerful outlook on life. It inspires me to take each day as a new day and embrace even the hardest ones. To always treat people how you would like to be treated, and strive to treat each person the same. Everyone has struggles in their life, and serving each and every person with a smile can make someone’s 100% better!