Why I chose Pharmacy Over Medicine

An interview by Sarah, 👩🏻‍🎓 a high school student aspiring to work in healthcare, throwing questions to Pharm. Emily, 👩‍⚕️ a licensed pharmacist with 5 years of experience - Why did you chose Pharmacy, over Medicine ?

Setting: A cozy restaurant at a quiet environment.

Sarah sits across from Miss Emily, curious about Emily’s career choice and why she chose pharmacy over medicine.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 Thanks for meeting with me, Miss Emily! I’ve been thinking a lot about my future, and I’m torn between pursuing medicine or pharmacy. 
I’d love to hear your story—why did you choose pharmacy?

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Of course, Sarah! I’m happy to share. Honestly, I was in the same boat when I was your age.

I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I wasn’t sure which path was right for me.
What made me choose pharmacy was the unique blend of science, patient care, and flexibility it offers.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 That sounds interesting! Can you tell me more about what drew you to pharmacy specifically? 

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Absolutely. But first you have to understand the difference between Pharmacy and medicine - so, Medicine focuses on the treatment of patients, while pharmacy focuses on the medication.

" medicine is about the process of the treatment, which includes meeting with patients, diagnosing illnesses and administering treatment. "

" Meanwhile, pharmacy is about the medication that treats patients, ensuring that they are suitable and effective. " by: EduAdvisor

👌 so back to your, question - For me, it was the idea of being a medication expert.

Pharmacists play such a critical role in healthcare—we ensure patients get the right medications, at the right time, at the right doses, and we educate them on how to use them safely.

I loved the idea of being the “go-to” person for drug-related questions. Plus, pharmacy is more collaborative than people realize.
We work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers to optimize patient outcomes.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 That makes sense. But didn’t you ever feel like you wanted to diagnose patients or perform surgeries?

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Great question! I did consider medicine, but I realized I didn’t want the long hours and high-pressure environment that often comes with being a doctor.

Pharmacy offers a better work-life balance, which was important to me.

I also love that I can work in so many different settings—community pharmacies, hospitals, research, even the pharmaceutical industry.
While, Medicine felt more limiting in that sense.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 That’s a good point. What about the schooling? Was pharmacy school easier than medical school? 

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ laughs I wouldn’t say it’s easier—just different.

 Pharmacy school is still rigorous, with a strong focus on pharmacology, chemistry, and patient care.

But it’s typically shorter than medical school.
I did a 5-year PharmD program after my undergrad, whereas medical school plus residency can take 7-10 years.

For me, that was a big factor. I wanted to start my career sooner and avoid the massive student debt that often comes with medical training.

 Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 That’s something I’ve been worried about too. What do you love most about being a pharmacist?

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Hands down, it’s the relationships I build with patients.

In a community pharmacy, I see the same people regularly, and I get to know them on a personal level.

I’ve helped elderly patients manage complex medication regimens, taught new parents how to give their babies liquid antibiotics, and even helped someone recognize the signs of a heart attack.

Those moments are incredibly rewarding.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 That sounds amazing. But are there any downsides to being a pharmacist?

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Of course, no job is perfect. 

One challenge is dealing with insurance companies—it can be frustrating when a patient’s medication isn’t covered, and you have to jump through hoops to get it approved.

There’s also the pressure of being accurate 100% of the time, because even a small mistake can have serious consequences.

But for me, the pros far outweigh the cons.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 That’s really helpful to hear. If you could go back, would you still choose pharmacy over medicine?

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Without a doubt. Pharmacy has given me everything I wanted in a career—stability, flexibility, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Plus, I love that I’m constantly learning. New drugs, new guidelines, new technologies—it keeps things exciting.

Sarah: 👩🏻‍🎓 Wow, you’ve given me a lot to think about. Any advice for someone like me who’s still deciding?

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ Simple—follow your passion, not just what sounds prestigious.

My biggest piece of advice is to shadow professionals in both fields. Spend a day with a pharmacist, spend a day with a doctor, and see which environment resonates with you.

Also, think about your long-term goals—Where do you want to specialize?
Do you value work-life balance? 

There’s no right or wrong answer, just what’s right for you.

Sarah:👩🏻‍🎓 Thanks so much, Emily. This has been so insightful!

Pharm. Emily: 👩‍⚕️ You’re welcome, Sarah!  Whatever you choose, just remember choosing between pharmacy and medicine isn’t about which one is "better"—it’s about what fits your passion, skills, and lifestyle goals.

Both careers play a vital role in saving lives and improving healthcare.

//End of Interview 💔😫😇

🔑 Key Takeaways :

• Pharmacy offers a unique blend of science, patient care, and flexibility.
  
  
• It provides a better work-life balance compared to medicine.
  
  
• Pharmacists play a critical role in healthcare and build strong patient relationships.
  
  
• Shadowing professionals is the best way to decide which path is right for you.

  So dear, pharmacists, What made you choose this path?
Share in the comments section!