“I sincerely appreciated the opportunity to work with the UGAC3 team during my third and fourth years as a student in the UGA PharmD program. I was able to gain valuable experience in the areas of data collection, statistical analysis, manuscript preparation, as well as state and national presentations. I felt a sense of ownership over my research project and was adequately supported throughout the process. Now, as a PGY1 acute care pharmacy resident, I have been able to build upon these foundational skills quickly and excel in my current research endeavors. I am truly grateful to the UGAC3 team for their encouragement, expertise, and mentorship.”

— Elly Sherman, PharmD, PGY1 Resident at Vanderbilt University Medical Center

“UGAC3 played an integral role in my career, guiding me from a P2 student interested in research to a PGY2 resident at a major academic medical center to now a board-certified critical care pharmacist. Each and every member of this group pours so much individual attention and dedication to their learners' success. Through their support and guidance, we have presented multiple research projects, published various manuscripts, have been nominated for and won awards, and still to this day collaborate on projects. UGAC3 has impacted so many learners, and I only hope to follow in their footsteps to help shape critical care pharmacists of tomorrow.”

— Aliya Abdulla, PharmD, BCCCP, Clinical Pharmacy Specialist in Critical Care at Houston Methodist Hospital

“Working with UGAC3 helped develop both my clinical and presentation skills prior to completing residency training (PGY1 and PGY2) and practicing as a clinical pharmacist. I primarily collaborated on a research project with the group that allowed me to refine my clinical skills through data collection and evaluation as well as manuscript development. It also provided ample opportunities for me to present in multiple environments, such as poster and national podium presentations. I am very grateful for their mentorship throughout each phase of the project and continued relationships to this day. I strive to mentor my own learners in a similar way in the hopes of making a positive impact similar to theirs on me.”

— Kelly Gamble, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacy Specialist in Infectious Diseases/OPAT at Vanderbilt University Medical Center

“Being a mentee with UGAC3 has been instrumental in shaping my journey into clinical pharmacy and research. The group provided invaluable guidance, tailored educational experiences, and unwavering support towards my professional growth. Their commitment to mentorship extended well beyond graduation, continuing through my residency and into my professional career. I would not be where I am today without the support and dedication of these exceptional pharmacists who truly invest in the success of future practitioners.”

— Kendall Huntt, PharmD, PGY2 Critical Care Resident at University of Kentucky HealthCare

“I can’t say enough good things about UGAC3! I started working with Dr. Smith & Dr. Branan my P2 year and by my P4 year I had 5+ posters, a first author publication, teaching experience, and more research experience under my belt than most residents. The strong foundation built with UGAC3 helped me to secure my first choice residency and fostered my passion for research and lifelong learning that I still utilize today in my role as a clinical pharmacist. I am so grateful I had the opportunity to learn from this group and to establish lifelong relationships with some of the very best pharmacists and mentors.”

— Peyton Kurtz, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacist at Wellstar Windy Hill

“Working with the UGAC3 group has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has significantly impacted my preparation for rotations, residency, and my future career. From the start, it was clear that you get out what you put in. If you show a genuine interest in learning or seek out additional opportunities, these professors will pour into you and match your drive, offering unparalleled mentorship, instruction and support. The hands-on, real-world research experience has been invaluable. From formulating hypotheses and submitting IRB proposals to designing surveys, analyzing data, and writing research papers, I was able to engage in every stage of the research process. This exposure not only bridged the gap between classroom theory and professional practice but also gave me a head start on aspects of research that many pharmacists don’t encounter until their PGY1 year. I've learned from the common pitfalls and mistakes that often become apparent only at the end of a project, and I feel more prepared to navigate those challenges in the future. While there’s still much to learn, this experience has given me the confidence to approach research from a clear and confident perspective, and I’m grateful to have this foundation as I continue to grow as a resident learner. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from UGAC3 is the importance of community in our careers. It’s easy, especially as students, to view residency and our careers as a competition, but the professors in UGAC3 emphasize collaboration and supporting each other in ways that help us achieve more. Through UGAC3, I’ve gained mentors who genuinely care about my success and will continue to guide me as I move forward in my career.”

— Emma Covington, PharmD, Future PGY1 Resident at University of Virginia Health

“Working with C3 gave me confidence I never knew I needed. A prepared me, not only in the realm of research, but taught me that the people you surround yourself with can end up being your greatest strength. Because of them, I learned that there’s always something to learn from other people, and that with a great team, we can do anything we set our minds to.”

— Charles “CJ” Wilson Jr., PharmD, BCCCP, Critical Care Pharmacy Specialist, Surgical Intensive Care Unit at Wesley Medical Center

“Working with the UGAC3 has been an amazing experience and opportunity. The faculty are heavily invested in getting the students on various projects, peer reviews, and other deliverables. They are always available for feedback, advice, and mentorship if wanted. I truly can't say enough great things about the UGAC3 team. When it comes to preparation for rotations, this experience has really allowed myself and my co-researcher to gain skills with time management, fostering independence but knowing when to reach out for advice, and has helped with being able to review literature efficiently. For residency, UGAC3 has allowed me to present 3 posters, 2 of which were at national conferences, a core component of many residency programs is presenting at Midyear. Starting a research project from the ground and then writing the manuscript is something most residents will have to complete as well, I believe my research project has provided me the experience to do this successfully as a resident. As for my career, UGAC3 has provided all the tools to be an accomplished and competent pharmacist. Their passion and dedication to 'paying it forward' is something I would like to implement into my practice. They have also encouraged involvement in professional societies/committees which is a great way to network and connect with peers. I see myself staying in one of these professional societies for my entire career.”

— Alexander Ruehman, PharmD, Future PGY1 Resident at University of Maryland Medical Center