Name: Rizwan Ahamad
Birth Place: Maharajganj ,Uttar Pradesh, India
Educational Qualification: B.Pharm from Jaipur National University, Rajasthan, India (2016-2020)
M.Pharm(Pharmacology) from Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India (2020-2022)
PhD (Pharmacology) from Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India (Admission batch:2023)
Languages you speak or write: Hindi, English and Bhojpuri
What do you do?
I am currently working as a Senior Research Fellow and PhD Research Scholar at the School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi.
What’s the best part of your profession? What made you choose this profession?
The best part of my profession is the opportunity to innovate and create new things that are beneficial for human use. The constant learning and growth are what motivated me to choose this profession.
Is/Was pharmacy your first career choice?
No
Are you happy/satisfied with the current scenario of pharmacy education in India?
I am not happy with the current state of pharmacy education in India. There are instances where degrees are awarded without students attending classes or taking exams. It is crucial that we address this issue and take measures to prevent such trends. I firmly believe that strict rules should be enforced for pharmacy admissions and registrations to promote accountability and uphold the integrity of the profession.
What can be done to improve education and the profession in this sector?
Moreover, I personally believe that a gap between theoretical aspects and practical application still persists. Insufficient coordination and collaboration between industry and academia further exacerbate the disparity between the skills acquired during education and those necessary for the efficient fulfillment of expected roles. The curriculum also lacks advanced techniques and practices, which hinders career opportunities.
Are you aware of all the career choices in your profession?
Yes, I'm actively exploring and looking for it.
What are the challenged that you face in your day-to-day life?
As a research fellow and PhD scholar, I anticipate encountering challenges in my day-to-day life. These challenges may include adapting to the professional environment, effectively managing my time, acquiring new skills, improving communication and collaboration, and handling work pressure. However, I approach these challenges with a positive mindset, a commitment to continuous learning, and a determination to grow both personally and professionally.
What is the salary one can expect after completing D. Pharm/B. Pharm/M. Pharm as a fresher?
As freshers who have completed D. Pharm/B. Pharm/M. Pharm, our main focus is on acquiring knowledge and skills as we embark on our learning journey. Personally, I strongly believe that knowledge cannot be bought with money; it is gained through continuous learning and practice. Here, I would like to mention the quote, "Practice makes man perfect."
I hope that as freshers, we can be considered as valuable assets and provided with compensation in accordance with the norms of the company/hospital and the standard market range. This will enable us to meet our economic needs while effectively contributing to the organization.
What are your views on the EXIT exam for getting registered as a pharmacist?
The for pharmacist registration, specifically the D. Pharm EXIT exam, is a positive step that ensures only qualified individuals enter the profession. It ensures that candidates have a good understanding and knowledge of medicines, patient safety, and proper dispensing practices.
Do you think pharmacists are underpaid?
Yes, I strongly believe that pharmacists are indeed underpaid considering their level of education, knowledge, expertise, and the important role that they play in healthcare sector.
Do you need to work overtime sometimes? If so, are you paid accordingly or not?
I am eager to dedicate my time and effort to the job at hand, including working overtime when necessary. I understand that certain situations may require additional hours to meet project deadlines or handle unexpected tasks. While discussing the specifics of compensation and overtime policies would be helpful to ensure transparency and fairness, I am open to negotiating such terms. I believe in being appropriately compensated for any extra time and effort invested in my work.
Do you like reading? What was the last thing you read?
I love reading books, and currently, I'm reading 'GODAN,' a Hindi novel written by Munshi Prem Chand. The last thing I read was a message about not having high expectations and finding happiness in what one already has.
What is your favorite dish?
I love eating Fish curry and Biryani made by my Ammi.
How would your friend describe you?
My friend describes me as ambitious and optimistic.
Who would you like to travel with?
Family, Friend(s)
Mention your favorite subjects.
Pharmacognosy is least favorite subject, and the reason for dislike is its focus on natural substances.
What is your least favorite subject?
My favorite subject is Pharmacology, and I enjoy reading about topics such as Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, Drug Mechanisms of Action (MOA), as well as their side effects.
What’s something you wish to change about the world?
I would like to change the circumstances for the next generation of children, as they are susceptible to addiction. Children have the ability to shape their future, but they can also be negatively influenced by habits such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and other detrimental behaviors. We should strive to protect their vulnerable minds, as they possess the potential to make remarkable changes in the history of the world. By providing them with adequate support, guidance, care, and love, we can help them develop into extraordinary individuals.
If your journey were a movie, what would it be called?
"Who, what, when, where, and how"
What are you passionate about?
As a healthcare professional, I'm passionate about assisting others and am constantly searching for chances to save people's lives and brighten their days. Nothing is more fulfilling than being able to assist others when they most need it.
Best/memorable moment?
When my parents tell everyone that I am going to be a Researcher and Professor.
What do you love to do in your leisure time?
I love to write poetry and watch short movies and web series whenever I have time.
What do you hate the most?
When I engage in conversations with individuals who appear to have unrealistic or impractical perspectives, I experience a strong emotion that can be described as intense dislike or aversion, which accurately conveys my feelings.
If given a choice, what alternate career would you have opted for?
If I were given the option, I would choose an alternative career as a travel photographer because I have a passion for both traveling and photography.
What is your dream travel destination?
Makka Madina
Where would you like to work in the future?
In the future, I would like to work in a research lab and also have the opportunity to teach students at a university.
Finally, a quote you relate to:
"To change ourselves effectively, we must first change our perceptions."
What else would you like to say about yourself?
Bringing social activism and volunteer work close to my heart, I am passionate about supporting causes, joining campaigns, and helping communities. I strongly advocate for raising awareness about diseases in society.
(MedSight/Rizwan Ahamad/PB)