University of North Carolina, Yukiko Ohno (Second-Year Student, Doctoral Programs in Pharmaceutical Sciences*at the time)

I participated in this program because I wanted to gain as much experience as possible and become a pharmacist with a broad perspective. I was originally scheduled to travel in 2020, but I had to give up on the idea due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after advancing to graduate school, I was fortunate enough to get a second chance to try.

I visited the University of North Carolina (UNC) Hospitals. During the four-week practicum, I rotated through different clinical departments on an almost daily basis, shadowing many pharmacists and technicians.

UNC Hospitals is one of the most advanced hospitals in the United States, and I learned a great deal not only from the differences between our countries but also from its high level of care. What particularly impressed me was that pharmacists were assigned to all outpatient departments and that there was a strong emphasis on education and research.

Also, the best part of participating in the practicum was realizing that even though there are differences in job duties and culture between Japan and the United States, the essential aspects remain the same. Changes are coming to the duties of pharmacists in Japan, such as the introduction of machinery, but I keenly felt that what remains unchanged and important is our role as medication experts and how we interact with other medical staff and patients. This realization will surely become my guiding principle as a pharmacist after graduation.

For those interested in this program, in the United States, it is preferred to assert yourself and use positive expressions. Please be proactive in voicing any questions you have or things you want to do. I also recommend expressing your gratitude and positive feelings often.

I think many of you may feel anxious about your English ability, but there is a preparation period, and in the end, if you have a strong desire to communicate and keep trying to find the words, you will surprisingly manage. It is a rare opportunity, so I encourage you to take on the challenge.