Arin Wade woke up each day at ONU knowing the smorgasbord of experiences she faced would be challenging, interesting, and rewarding.
“I firmly believe that experiencing as much as possible, especially as a student, sculpts you into a better person and professional,” she said, adding that she was a former Student Senate president, and student participant in the American Pharmacists Association, Ohio Pharmacists Association, Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists plus seven other organizations.
Arin’s favorite was Student Senate because “this governing body is full of the most fantastic, talented team of leaders."
Life had dealt Arin some tough stuff, including the opioid addiction of a close family member, which happened when Arin was in middle school. Not surprisingly, given her commitment to learning and growing, this experience led Arin to pharmacy as a major.
“It was a challenging and unanticipated period for my family and me, and I recall wondering how a drug could leave such an impact on a person's body, mentality and life,” she noted.
That question led her straight to ONU.
“The Raabe College of Pharmacy is unmatched. Our alumni are strong and engaged, and our stature within the field is phenomenal. I have made so many connections from this program: friends, mentors and an ongoing pool of pharmacy Polar Bears. For me, it was no contest to choose ONU Pharmacy,” she said.
Arin believes getting real world experience during college is essential, as well.
“I was blessed to intern in retail, hospital, administrative and nuclear pharmacy throughout my years in the pharmacy program,” she said. “Along the way, I encountered people who helped me pave my own path within the field."
As an experienced cellist, Arin also appreciated being able to “participate in the symphony orchestra and praise and worship band without having to sacrifice any of my relevant other organizations.”
Arin remains grateful for the memories and friends she made. “I am proud of our community, high-achieving students, and diversity in programs,” she says. “I am proud to be a Polar Bear.”