Name: Nazish Khan
Birth Place: Mumbai, India
Educational Qualification: B. Pharm from Vivekanand Education Society's College of Pharmacy, Mumbai, India (2019-2023)
Languages you speak or write: English, Hindi and Marathi
What do you do?
I am a recent B.Pharmacy graduate from Vivekanand Education Society's College of Pharmacy in Mumbai. I am currently exploring my options and looking forward to pursuing M.Pharm in Pharmacuetics/Quality Assurance from a reputed institution.
What’s the best part of your profession? What made you choose this profession?
The best part about being a pharmacist is the wide range of career paths it offers. Pharmacists can work in various settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, research institutions, pharmaceutical industry, academia, and regulatory agencies. This diversity allows individuals to find a niche that aligns with their interests and goals, which made me choose this profession.
Are you happy/satisfied with the current scenario of pharmacy education in India?
I am dissatisfied with the present condition of pharmacy education in India. There are occurrences where degrees are granted to students who have not attended classes or taken examinations. It is imperative that we tackle this matter and implement measures to prevent such patterns. Admissions should be strictly based on merit and not caste. Capable students who have scored well should have equal opportunities to get admissions without any discrimination. I firmly advocate for the enforcement of stringent regulations concerning pharmacy admissions and registrations to foster accountability and maintain the profession's integrity.
What can be done to improve education and the profession in this sector?
To improve education and the profession in this sector, we should incorporate more practical training, hands-on experiences, and case-based learning to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Stronger partnerships should be made between academia and the pharmaceutical industry to facilitate knowledge exchange, research collaborations, and internships. This can help students gain real-world experience, stay updated with industry trends, and contribute to innovative solutions. Encourage pharmacists to join professional organizations and engage in networking activities. These platforms provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, professional development, and advocacy for the pharmacy profession.
What are some fun facts about pharmacy that you want the readers to know?
The mortar and pestle, commonly associated with pharmacy, have been used for centuries as tools for grinding and preparing medications. Even today, the mortar and pestle remain a symbol of pharmacy.
Pharmacists are not just confined to dispensing medications. Clinical pharmacists work in healthcare settings, collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective medication use.
The modern pharmaceutical symbol, often seen outside pharmacies, is the "Bowl of Hygieia." It features a snake wrapped around a cup, representing the Greek goddess of health, Hygieia, and symbolizing the balance of healing and poison.
The world's oldest pharmacy, located in the city of Trier, Germany, has been in operation since 1241. Known as the Engel Apotheke, it has been serving customers for over 780 years.
What do you think about the current industry scenario?
The pharmacy industry has been and continues to be a critical component of healthcare systems worldwide. The pharmaceutical industry continues to innovate, developing new drugs and therapies to address unmet medical needs. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the pharmacy industry. Pharmacies played a vital role in vaccine distribution, COVID-19 testing, and patient education. The pandemic also accelerated the adoption of telepharmacy services and highlighted the importance of pharmacies in public health emergencies. I believe that both experienced professionals and freshers should be given opportunities to contribute to the industry's growth.
What are the challenges that you face in your day-to-day life?
As a recent B.Pharmacy graduate, the challenges I face in my day-to-day life include keeping a balance with studies and extracurricular activities. I need to manage college exams, practical, projects, events, presentations, and submissions while also preparing for entrance exams for admission into PG courses.
What is the salary one can expect after completing D. Pharm/B. Pharm/M. Pharm as a fresher?
The salary one can expect after completing D. Pharm/B. Pharm/M. Pharm as a fresher is around 3-4 LPA. The actual salary may vary depending on the industry and company policies.
Do you think pharmacists are underpaid?
It's worth noting that pharmacy salaries can vary significantly across different countries, regions, and practice settings. Factors such as the cost of living, local wage scales, and healthcare reimbursement structures can all influence compensation levels.
Do you like reading? What was the last thing you read?
Yes, I do like reading books, newspapers, and research articles. I read the TIMES OF INDIA newspaper every day, and the last book that I read recently is the book named "Life's Amazing Secrets" by Gaur Gopal Das.
What is your favorite dish?
My favorite dish is Chicken Biryani made by my mom.
What is your least favorite subject?
Organic Chemistry is my least favorite subject as it includes many reactions and mechanisms that blow my mind.
Your favorite subject(s)?
My favorite subjects are Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy as these subjects help you relate to your body and understand how drugs interact with biological systems to produce therapeutic effects. They delve into the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics (drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion), and pharmacodynamics (how drugs affect the body).
What’s something you wish to change about the world?
The only thing that I wish to change about the world is corruption. Our world should be free from corruption so that each and every one of us can live a peaceful life.
If your journey was/were a movie, what would it be called?
Since I am presently engaged in learning and exploration, my experience is continuously unfolding, which makes it challenging to find a particular movie title that captures it.
Best/memorable moment
The best moment was the day when I met my friends after the Pandemic as all of us were home for a long time. We decided to go to Bounce, which is a fun place in Mumbai. We enjoyed a lot there. Those are the memories I will cherish forever.
What do you love to do in your leisure time?
I love to spend my leisure time walking at the beach, and I also enjoy watching comedy movies/web series.
If given a choice, what alternate career would you have opted for?
If given a choice, I would have opted for a career in Aviation.
What is your dream travel destination?
Paris
Where would you like to work in the future?
I would like to work with a multinational company that will provide me the opportunity to showcase my skills and develop my overall career.
Finally, a Quote you relate to.
"Practice patience and remember that good things often take time."
(PharmaDose /Nazish Khan/PB)