High school students explore careers in pharmacy during WVU summer camp
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The West Virginia University School of Pharmacy gave high school students an immersive look at the diverse and dynamic field of pharmacy during its inaugural summer camp, “Around the World of Pharmacy in 8 Hours,” held Friday, June 13, at the WVU Health Sciences Center.
The one-day camp welcomed students from across West Virginia and Pennsylvania for a hands-on journey through pharmacy’s many specialties, from clinical decision-making to global marketing. With a travel-themed agenda and interactive sessions, participants rotated through seven stations that highlighted different pharmacy roles and settings. 
“We designed the camp to be hands-on and interactive so students could really see the breadth of what pharmacists do,” said Ashleigh Barrickman, PharmD, BCACP, CTTS, associate dean of Admissions and Student Affairs and associate professor of Clinical Pharmacy. “Many students only think of the community pharmacy setting, but pharmacists are essential members of the healthcare team in so many areas. Our goal is to show them the possibilities early, before they even enter college.”
Activities included making lip balm in a compounding lab, analyzing transplant cases to determine organ recipients, and learning how pharmacists contribute to vaccine administration, patient discharge planning and global health initiatives. Students also tested their knowledge in a fast-paced trivia game, “Guess That Pharmacist.” 
Current pharmacy students and faculty led the activities, offering insight into academic paths, clinical experiences and career opportunities. Parents were invited to join a closing session to ask questions about prerequisites, scholarships and financial aid.
The camp is part of a broader recruitment effort to introduce high school students to the pharmacy profession and encourage early academic planning.
“We’re excited about the turnout and hope to continue this event in future years,” Barrickman said. “It’s a great way to inspire the next generation of pharmacists right here in West Virginia and beyond.”
For more information about the WVU School of Pharmacy, visit pharmacy.hsc.wvu.edu.
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