An end or a beginning??

As another spring semester comes to a close, my emotions are extremely mixed...as they are every year at this time but even more so this year.

Part of me is overjoyed to reach the end of a semester of teaching...more accurately, I am overjoyed to reach the end of the stress and work which comes with a semester of teaching. For those who ask (and I get asked often), yes, I do still work during the summer but it is more focused on research, projects, administrative responsibilities, and preparing for the next semester. But, it is a different feeling without the constant swirl of chaos that the semester brings. Don't get me wrong - the students are typically the best part of my job. Unfortunately, the rest of the job goes into a holding pattern while classes are in session so there is always this feeling of being behind on your work.

This year I am sad to see the semester end because 5 of the Pharmacy LEADERS Track students will be receiving their PharmD degrees just 2 short days from now. I am sad for me, not for them. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching them grow into the incredible leaders they are today. It may sound motherly of me but I wish I could keep them from leaving the nest.

The graduation of these 5 leaders also brings me an amazing sense of pride. They are the first UConn School of Pharmacy graduates to earn the distinction of Pharmacy LEADERS Scholar. They jumped in with both feet into a brand new track and helped to develop it. They were leaders long before they stepped into the track but used the track as an opportunity to expand their knowledge, skills, and attitudes in leadership. I am confident that they will represent themselves and UConn well as alumni, leaders, and health care providers.

Wherever they go and whatever they do, they always have a home in our hearts and are Huskies Forever!