Tell us about your PATY experience?
It’s been a bit overwhelming but it has been really good! I really enjoyed the workshop day, and had the opportunity to meet lots of likeminded, passionate people. It was a really inspiring day and I felt really motivated!
What was the workshop day like?
I thought it was great that it was really interactive and it was a great learning experience. I also found the facilitators were great and very helpful!
Would you encourage others to participate in PATY in the future? Why?
It’s a really inspiring experience! Being able to interact with your colleagues from other pharmacies around your state, and share ideas and practices. I think everyone should get involved in the future!
How did you get started in pharmacy?
When I was younger, I always wanted to work in community pharmacy. It seemed like a really friendly and professional place to work. One day, I finally got a call from the pharmacy, asking if I was still looking for a position and I felt like I had finally won my dream job!
I worked a couple days after school, and I enjoyed that I was continually learning and I loved the customer service. I started studying at university but I knew my heart was in pharmacy. I moved into a full time position in the pharmacy and shortly after was offered a retail manager position at another pharmacy. I really enjoyed the challenge and I’ve loved every minute.
You’ve been in pharmacy for a while, how has your interest evolved over that time?
I feel like I’ve constantly been building on my knowledge and it’s really exciting. I think my interest and passion lies in training now. I want to help others to learn, and to be able to inspire someone to achieve their best.
You’ve worked in so many areas, do you have a favourite?
I wouldn’t say I have a favourite area, but I certainly love interacting with customers and developing a relationship with them. I love the freedom to float around the shop floor and just develop customer relationships. I believe that’s what pharmacy is all about.
What qualifications have you gained and how important is training to you?
I have Certificate III in Community Pharmacy, and I really want to continue to study and learn. The more you can learn, the better service you will provide to your customers.
Can you share a favourite story from your time in pharmacy?
We have this regular customer who comes in about two or three times a week. It’s not often he actually needs to purchase something, but he will just come in and have a chat with everyone. He’s a lovely guy, so we will always give him the time of day. Everyone has a great relationship with him and just seeing him really brightens my day!
Making people feel welcome and comfortable is really the most important role of a pharmacy assistant. We want our customers to return and share their health concerns with us. If our customers trust us and are open with us, we can help them find the best health solution.
What do you do in your spare time?
I have a seven month old puppy, so I spend all my time taking care of him! I do a bit of hip hop dance, which is really fun and good stress relief for me! I also do a little yoga, which helps me to relax after a long day!
What inspires you?
Actually, my colleague Kelly inspires me! She’s so positive and I know I can always go to her and find a solution for my problems. She’s also been in pharmacy for a long time, so she’s very knowledgably and full of great advice!