Claire Jackson

Why are you a member of CDC?

I am a member of the CDC because I think it is important to develop strong communication and networking skills as a pharmacy student, and I would like to facilitate opportunities for other students to participate in professional development activities.

How long have you served on the CDC?

This is my first year on the CDC.

Why did you choose to come to Purdue to study Pharmacy?

I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in a healthcare related field, and math and science have always been my strengths. Purdue has a great reputation as a university as well as a top-ranked pharmacy program. I fell in love with Purdue when I visited campus and knew it would be the perfect fit for me. Purdue has provided me so many opportunities to explore!  

What year are you in the program?

P3

Where are you from?

Avon, IN

What has been the most challenging point about school?

The most challenging aspect has been finding a perfect balance between class, work, organizations, and extracurricular activities. I love to try new things and take on new projects, which has required me to develop good time management skills.

What has been the most rewarding?

The most rewarding aspect of school has been applying my classroom knowledge in real world settings on rotations and internships.

What activities are you involved with and why have you chosen to participate in them?

I am involved with the Industry Pharmacists Organization because I plan to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry. Also, I am involved with the Boiler OUT organization because I enjoy volunteering in the community. In previous years, I have been involved with the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, the YWCA Domestic Violence Intervention Prevention program, Pre-pharmacy club, Anatomy and Physiology teaching assistant, Industrial and Physical Pharmacy research, Spanish tutoring, Purdue Pharmacy Ambassadors, and Adopt-a-Grandparent club.

What professional experiences have you participated in in the summers?

This past summer I completed an internship for a pharmaceutical consulting company in Washington, DC focusing on market research and commercial assessments. I have also been a Pharmacy Intern at CVS Health since my first professional year.

What are your future career aspirations?

I would like to complete a fellowship in clinical development or project management after graduation and work in drug development for a pharmaceutical company.

What one piece of advice do you give to younger students in the program?

One piece of advice I would give to younger students in the program would be to find an older student mentor. Mentors can be great resources and provide endless advice because they have recently been in your shoes.

What do you enjoy doing outside of Pharmacy school?

Outside of pharmacy school, I enjoy running, playing intramural volleyball, traveling, and volunteering.

What is your favorite ice cream?

Chocolate chip cookie dough