Publication
Article
Pharmacy Careers
Author(s):
COVID-19 can reshape one’s academic journey and outlook on life.
Image credit: Julia | stock.adobe.com
The COVID-19 pandemic had far-reaching effects on nearly every aspect of life, and for students like me, the impact was especially profound. As members of a minority group, my family’s experience with the health care system was already fraught with challenges stemming from low health literacy, mistrust of the system, and limited access to education. When the pandemic hit, these issues were amplified. In my case, it was more than just navigating “Zoom University”: COVID-19 took a direct toll on my family and friends, claiming the lives of my dad, grandpa, aunt, and close friends. The emotional and mental weight of these losses, combined with a disrupted education, left a lasting impression on me—one that I’m still learning to navigate.
For many students—me included—transitioning to online learning wasn’t just inconvenient; it was detrimental to our understanding and retention. The phrase “COVID brain” became a way to describe how our focus, memory, and cognitive sharpness felt dulled by the constant swirl of distractions, grief, and isolation. Zoom University, as we called it, left us feeling disconnected and lacking the direct, hands-on experience that is so critical in health care education. The distance learning model further isolated me, leading to introversion, something I hadn’t experienced to this extent before.
When the world shifted, so did the way I absorbed information. Key lessons, clinical knowledge, and the collaborative learning environment that normally shape pharmacy students were replaced with grainy video calls and spotty Wi-Fi connections. My confidence in my learning was shaken, and the gaps left by the pandemic still linger today.
Recognizing the long-term impact of these challenges has been essential in finding ways to overcome them. One of the most important steps I took was to push myself out of my comfort zone. As someone who became more introverted due to the pandemic, signing up for events, social activities, and professional networking opportunities has been crucial to regaining that sense of community and engagement lost during the pandemic. Whether a student organization, residency workshop, or small group study sessions, these events forced me to be social again—to relearn how to connect with others both academically and personally.
However, the academic gaps created by Zoom University weren’t something I could resolve just by being more social; I realized early on during rotations that I had to make up for the lack of in-person learning and hands-on experience. To do this, I adopted a more proactive approach to my learning. Before rotations even started, I would reach out to my preceptors, asking about the most relevant disease states and medications to review. This not only helped me feel more prepared but also allowed me to target my study sessions more effectively, ensuring I was ready for the clinical challenges I would face. Although this preparation doesn’t erase the setbacks caused by the pandemic, it helps me regain control over my education.
The losses I’ve experienced due to COVID-19 have shaped the way I view my role as a future pharmacist. Seeing firsthand how the virus disproportionately affected my community has deepened my understanding of health disparities and the critical importance of patient education. The low health literacy in my family and community contributed to delays in seeking care, misunderstandings about treatment, and a general mistrust of the health care system. As a pharmacy student, I was inspired to pursue a future where I can make health care more accessible and comprehensible to underrepresented populations. I now see the importance of advocating for patients, especially those who may not fully understand their medical conditions or treatments.
This experience has also influenced my interest in pharmacy’s role in public health. I’ve realized that pharmacists play a crucial part in bridging the gap between the health care system and patients, especially minority and marginalized groups. Through medication counseling, public health outreach, and patient advocacy, I aim to use my experiences to drive meaningful change in the communities that need it most.
Neden Yacine, PharmD, MS, is a PGY-1 pharmacy resident at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah. She earned her PharmD from the University of Utah College of Pharmacy and has early committed to a PGY-2 residency in internal medicine at the same institution.
COVID-19 reshaped not only my academic journey but also my outlook on life. Although COVID brain may describe the cognitive challenges that many of us faced, it also represents the broader emotional and mental toll of the pandemic. As I continue to navigate the residual effects of this period, I’m constantly learning to adapt, grow, and make up for lost ground. Whether it means stepping out of my comfort zone or seeking guidance from mentors, the pandemic’s impact has forced me to rethink how I approach both my education and my career.
In the end, I’ve realized that the key to moving forward is acknowledging the setbacks but not letting them define me. By proactively preparing for rotations, engaging in social events, and staying focused on my long-term goals, I’ve regained confidence in my learning and found a new purpose in my future role as a pharmacist.
