Excitement Reigns at New Student Welcome Day for the PharmD Class of 2029

Incoming students take first steps into the pharmacy profession with faculty introductions, campus tours, and white coat sizing.

By Pam Carder
June 11, 2025

The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy officially welcomed the Class of 2029 during New Student Welcome Day on June 4. Held in Pharmacy Hall, the day-long event gave incoming students their first immersive experience of life in pharmacy school – and a chance to begin forming the connections that will support them through the next four years.

The day kicked off with registration and white coat sizing, an exciting and symbolic moment for many students as they prepare to don the traditional white coat that marks their entry into the pharmacy profession.

“I was very nervous this morning but overcame that feeling with encouragement from friends. I am so glad I am here now,” said Mena Saeid, an incoming first-year student pharmacist who earned her BS in biology, with minors in Arabic and technology, from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. “All of the faculty and fellow students I have met so far have been very welcoming. I look forward to getting started!”

Some friends and family also attended the event, offering an additional dimension of support to the new cohort. “After losing her father in 2023 to cancer, my daughter has worked so hard to make him proud,” said Abidemi Alli-Lawal, mother of Aminat Lawal, incoming first-year student pharmacist. “Watching her enter pharmacy school fills me with pride and gratitude. As a Nigerian mother, I know she is walking a path of purpose, and I believe her journey will bless many.”

Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, dean of the School and professor of pharmaceutical sciences, offered the students a warm welcome and a message about the journey ahead.

“You’re joining an innovative and compassionate community,” said Michel. “You have chosen a profession that touches lives every day, and we’re honored to walk this path with you.”

She encouraged students to embrace the opportunities ahead: “Here, we are all – faculty, staff, fellow students – completely committed to your success,” Michel said. “You will discover a rich diversity of career paths with a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. Our career navigation program is a fantastic way to explore those options and tailor your journey. And most importantly, I encourage you to connect with your colleagues and faculty. You are not alone.”

Additional remarks were shared by Andrew Coop, PhD, associate dean for students and professor of pharmaceutical sciences, who emphasized the School’s commitment to leadership and innovation.

“What’s different about the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy? We do not accept things the way they are,” said Coop. “We will train you to advocate for change in health care and to be innovators.”

The morning included sessions on the PharmD curriculum, academic expectations, and student life. Students also learned about health and wellness resources and tips for academic success.

“I am here to answer your questions about student life, work-life balance, and the curriculum – everything,” said Kristine Parbuoni, PharmD, assistant dean for PharmD student life and student success, and associate professor of practice, sciences, and health outcomes research. “I look forward to getting to know you and supporting you on your journey.”

A highlight of the day was a candid panel discussion with current PharmD students, who shared insights about adjusting to graduate school, managing stress, and finding community.

For Catherine Sakowski, the day brought a long-anticipated dream closer to reality. “Putting on my white coat for the first time – even just for sizing – made it all feel real. I am here because I want to be a pharmacist, and my goal is to earn my PharmD. I have been on this journey since my freshman year in college, and I am super excited to start in the fall.”

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View the photo album on Flickr.

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