Amanda Idusuyi wanted to be a UConn Husky since she was 12 years old.  And since arriving in Storrs, she’s made the most of it: whether  she was busy pursuing her Pharm.D, serving as president of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association or a campus ambassador for national brands, or just playing intramural volleyball, Idusuyi has gotten the most out of her time at UConn. As she heads off for a post-graduate fellowship, she has some sound advice for the students following in her footsteps: make the most of your opportunities – and don’t forget to visit the Dairy Bar.

Why did you choose UConn?

When it came to choosing a university, UConn was a no-brainer. I wanted to attend the University since I was 12 years old. I intended to play basketball and when that didn’t work out, I decided to pursue a career in pharmacy. My older sister Andrea was instrumental in guiding me toward this career path. I knew UConn would be a great school that provided me with numerous opportunities for growth and learning.

The pharmacy program prepared me for a career in the pharmaceutical industry and introduced me to amazing professors, who are renowned experts in their field. Additionally, UConn has strong connections to the industry and has given access to many research opportunities and networking events that have helped build my professional network and gain valuable experience. All-in-all I received a quality education while meeting some of the best people and friends in my life!

What’s your major/field of study, and what drew you to it?

Pharmacy. There are many great things about being a pharmacist, but perhaps the best thing is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients. Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who play a critical role in ensuring that patients receive safe and effective medications. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to manage patients’ medications, provide medication counseling and education, and monitor for drug interactions and side effects. By doing so, pharmacists help to improve patient outcomes, prevent adverse drug reactions, and promote overall health and wellness. Overall, the best thing about being a pharmacist is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others while also enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career.

Did you have a favorite professor or class?

My favorite class in my pharmacy curriculum was cardiology. It was my favorite because cardiovascular diseases are one of the highest causes of death in the United States. The lifestyle modifications and medications I learned about were key in preventing and slowing the decline of our cardiovascular system. The knowledge I learned in that class is so valuable and I have used it to help patients as well as members of my own family. Additionally, the class has helped me live a healthier life to lead as an example in my community.

What activities were you involved in as a student?

As a student, I played intramural volleyball whenever possible because it was my favorite sport from high school. I was president of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association, which focused on the profession of pharmacy, health care issues, and the poor and minority representation in these areas. I was also director of communications for the Industry Pharmacists Organization, which is dedicated to exposing pharmacists to diverse career opportunities and advancing their careers within the pharmaceutical industry. Lastly, I was a goPuff and Curology campus ambassador, which has fostered a love of business and marketing in me.

What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

After graduation, I will complete a post-graduate Pharm.D fellowship at Sanofi in conjunction with MCPHS in Commercial Strategy: Rare Disease.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

The real world is full of uncomfortable, new, and exciting situations. UConn has allowed me to experience all of these situations and more. I’ve learned how to advocate for myself in spaces where I felt underrepresented and build and leverage my connections to further elevate as a student and professional. I’ve also had an amazing opportunity to learn about areas of improvement to grow in personal development and become the best version of myself. In the grand scheme of it all, my time at UConn is just a portion of the full life I am going to live and I am grateful for the lasting memories I’ve created.

Any advice for incoming students?

Utilize all of the campus opportunities. From Student Union late nights to basketball games to concerts to organization events. They could all be gone in a blink of an eye. Whether from an unforeseen tragedy (pandemic) or graduation. It comes sooner than you think.

You’ll also find your group of friends in the most unexpected places, so experience it all and try everything. Don’t stifle your light to fit in or be part of the crowd, always seek to stand out, that’s when you shine brightest!!!

Lastly, choose self-care and build healthy routines. Because those A’s don’t wash away bad habits!

What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

The Dairy Bar is some of the best ice cream I have ever had. Take it from an ice cream connoisseur who consumes ice cream even in cold weather, it’s worth the hype.