(331) Strategies for Student Success: Investing in the Future of Pharmacy

Objective : FSOP focuses on the future of pharmacy through recruitment strategies, innovative policies for academic success, and promoting advocacy for the profession of pharmacy.

Methods: FSOP recruitment extends beyond the usual undergraduate focus to include high school students. We host annual high school events at our primary campus and at venues throughout the state. FSOP supports these strategies with faculty involvement and transportation for high school students to our campus.
FSOP student success is optimized through the Pharmacy Readiness Program (PRP) and Reassessment Policy.
The PRP, which is offered to the incoming students, promotes academic success through interaction with P1 faculty, simulation of typical schedule, and introduction to the rigor of the curriculum.

Results: The faculty recognized that extenuating circumstances could compromise students' performance. The Academic Standards Committee (ASC) implemented a Reassessment Policy to allow students who earned a "D" or an "F" in a course to be afforded a retesting opportunity. The policy was implemented in the Fall of 2022. As of the Spring semester of 2023, five students used the reassessment policy and were successful.
FSOP promotes advocacy by encouraging student participation during the Texas Pharmacy Day at the Capitol. In Spring 2023, 32 students met with select legislators and attended legislative meetings for the advancement of pharmacist services to improve patient care. By encouraging student participation, FSOP fosters an educational environment where students appreciate the value of their voice in policy development.

Conclusions: FSOP continues to implement methods to enhance student success through creative recruitment strategies, policies for academic success, and knowing the importance of advocacy.