June Chen, winner of the Alberta College of Pharmacists Gold Medal and the Alberta Premier's Silver Medal
When June Chen graduates on June 4, she'll have earned more than just her bachelor of science degree in pharmacy; she's leaving the University of Alberta with a stellar GPA and some impressive hardware. But more than that, she's leaving with experiences she will take with her in her career.
Chen is the recipient of the Alberta College of Pharmacists Gold Medal, presented each year to the top graduating student from the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Adding to her medal count, Chen also received the Alberta Premier's Silver Medal, which is awarded to "the undergraduate student who achieves the highest academic standing throughout his or her undergraduate degree in the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, or Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences."
Chen was an academic standout from the beginning, says Dion Brocks, associate dean of undergraduate student affairs in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
"As the class of 2015 progressed through their program, one thing I became accustomed to was seeing June Chen's name appear at the very top of the class list," says Brocks. "The class of 2015 is an exceptional class, and June's standing is a testament to the outstanding academic achievements she's attained during her time in the program. I am extremely proud to see her receive these prestigious awards."
When asked how she managed to achieve such consistent excellence, Chen says she was motivated by her desire to help others and to use the knowledge and skills she learned in the classroom to improve the lives of patients. She also credits the supportive environment of the faculty and her friends.
"My family was also very important in helping me through school," she adds. "It was nice to know they were only a phone call away during stressful times."
Chen managed to balance her studies with volunteering-she served in several roles on the Alberta Pharmacy Students' Association (APSA), including interprofessional director and various committee positions-and pursuing her love of dance as a regular member of the U of A's Orchesis Dance Group.
Dancing was a way for Chen to relieve stress, and being involved with APSA was "such a great experience that provided tremendous opportunities for developing leadership skills."
As for what the future holds, Chen says she hopes to work in a hospital, and will begin an additional year of training with the Edmonton hospital residency program early next month.
Her experience in her third year working with Alberta Health Services at the Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary was what inspired her to continue her education and apply for the residency program.
"Everyone was so motivated to learn and work together. Being able to collaborate with physicians and other health professionals to deliver quality patient care is one of the reasons I chose this profession."