For many fourth-year pharmacy students, applying to residencies, fellowships and other post-graduate training programs is a stressful experience laden with challenges. Luckily for students in the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, the Residency Application Preparation, or RAP, team provides mentorship and support throughout this process, including one-on-one guidance, reviewing letters of intent and CVs and conducting mock interviews.
Robin Moorman Li, Pharm.D., BCACP, NBC-HWC, a clinical associate professor and the assistant director of the UF College of Pharmacy Jacksonville campus, said the RAP team is currently recruiting alumni and friends of the college to serve as mentors. RAP team mentors should have a passion for coaching, experience in the pharmacy industry and knowledge of the professional interview process. She said mentors can reside anywhere in the world, as all work is conducted online.
“We are hoping to develop a great network of alumni and friends of the college who want to help mentor our pharmacy students who are seeking residency and fellowship positions and other professional opportunities,” Moorman Li said.
During the summer months, RAP team mentors review student CVs and letters of intent, providing feedback gleaned from their own experiences. In November, December and January, mentors conduct mock interviews with students, 30-minute Zoom conversations which have the potential to transform a student’s professional path.
“Mock interviews allow students to practice some common interview questions, as well as some more unique questions to help them think on their feet,” Moorman Li said. “This format also allows them to practice proper etiquette in a Zoom interview setting. Many students shared just how nervous they were about this process, and how practicing with a mentor who provided some guidance and feedback helped build their confidence. Mentors will also meet very dedicated and high-performing students, which could result in a win for both parties, since it’s also a great networking opportunity.”
Interested in becoming a RAP team mentor? Sign up here to apply today.