Ryan Shan grew up in both a UConn and pharmacy family.

He rooted for UConn basketball alongside his brother and father, both alums, and listened to his dad talk about his work in the health care and pharmacy fields. But Shan still is following his own path.

Involved in a number of pharmacy-related activities at UConn, he’s nonetheless made time to try a lot of new things – even breakdancing!

Why did you choose UConn?

My connection to UConn started long before I set foot on campus. Both my father and brother are proud UConn alumni, and we have long been passionate supporters of UConn basketball. That sense of pride and community stayed with me, so when it came to choosing a school, UConn felt like home. I have been excited to follow in their footsteps and continue our family legacy as a fellow Husky.

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

I am graduating from the Doctor of Pharmacy program. With a pharmacist for a father, I was introduced to health care and pharmacy early on, and grew up listening to his stories and insights on the profession. Those experiences sparked my interest in the field and shaped my compassion for helping others. Now, as a graduating pharmacist, I am excited to build on that foundation and continue to grow in a field that combines science, service, and lifelong learning.

Did you have a favorite professor or class?

It’s hard to choose just one because I’ve had so many incredible mentors at UConn. One professor who had a significant impact on me is Christina Polomoff. She was always generous with her time and guidance and went beyond the classroom to support not just my growth, but the growth of many other students.

What activities were you involved in as a student?

I was very involved in the School of Pharmacy community through student organizations like the Industry Pharmacists Organization, the Dean’s Student Liaison Committee, and the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, where I had the opportunity to serve in national and local leadership roles and connect students to opportunities across pharmacy. I also really enjoyed volunteering through the UConn Health Leaders program, South Park Clinics, Migrant Farm Worker Clinics, and Warming Shelter Clinics, caring for underserved populations across Connecticut and connecting patients to resources that meet their social needs. In addition, I have been involved in various research projects and have been fortunate to contribute to publications across a range of topics including polypills, SGLT2 inhibitors, and coccidioidal meningitis (say that 10 times fast!).

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

The strength and reach of the UConn network is something that really surprised me. No matter where I go, whether for conferences, rotations, or internships, I have almost always run into a fellow Husky. There’s an immediate connection and willingness to support one another that makes the UConn community feel much bigger than just the campus.

What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

After graduation, I’ll be continuing my training as a PGY-1 pharmacy resident with Prime Therapeutics, where I’ll have the opportunity to help serve millions of members across the country by improving access to care, quality of care, and delivering meaningful cost savings.

Any advice for incoming students?

Take advantage of the many opportunities at UConn, especially the ones that feel outside your comfort zone. That’s where the most growth happens. And on a more practical note: If you are on the Storrs campus, invest in a good umbrella or raincoat. You’ll thank yourself later.

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

Everyone should try something new. Some of my favorite memories came from doing things I never expected, like late-night karaoke, trying breakdancing, or even making my first root beer float in the dining hall. These spontaneous moments are what made my time at UConn truly unforgettable.

What will always make you think of UConn?

March Madness is one of the best times of the year. There’s nothing like cheering on our men’s and women’s basketball teams in Gampel Pavilion. Beyond that, I will always remember the small moments like getting ice cream at the Dairy Bar with friends, getting covered in mud during OOzeball, late-night DP Dough, and watching the cows on Horsebarn Hill.