Inspired by his mother’s career as a pharmacy technician, Francisco Damacio joined the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences’ inaugural student pharmacist cohort in 2021.
“I chose the UCI School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences because it presented a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be in an inaugural class,” he said. “This journey has been full of unique experiences that I would not have gotten at any other institution.”
As part of his pharmacy education, Damacio gained hands-on training in health-system pharmacy through Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs): “I have found to greatly enjoy the role of a pharmacist within these settings and find fulfillment in the contributions a pharmacist can make to improve patient care,” he shared.
Beyond the classroom and his APPE rotations, Damacio participated in the American Pharmacists Association/California Pharmacists Association – Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA/CPhA-ASP), serving as the founding chapter president at UCI and in other leadership positions at the state and national levels. He received a certificate of recognition from the American Pharmacists Association for his service as a mid-year regional meeting coordinator for 2023-2024.
“Being a part of these organizations was a large component of my student career and introduced me to many amazing individuals in California and across the nation,” he said. “It was a tremendously rewarding experience, and I encourage all students to join a group that resonates with them.”
The inaugural cohort will graduate with their Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degrees on May 23. Damacio will be pursuing pharmacy residency training at University of Michigan Health following graduation.
“My experience in the PharmD program has been extremely fulfilling,” he said. “Every single opportunity that I have been presented with has helped me develop into the future pharmacist I am today. This program has given me many new friendships that have made this journey full of adventures and laughs.”
