XPharm 2023
Embark on a journey of discovery as we revisit XPharm 2023! Held from 20-22 December 2023, this 3-day experience was designed for pre-university students to gain invaluable insights to make informed decisions about their academic paths – particularly in the pharmacy and pharmaceutical science degrees at NUS. Choosing a university course wisely is important, as it lays the foundation for a fulfilling academic journey and paves the way for a purposeful career. This time, we were thrilled to host 120 participants from diverse academic backgrounds. Let’s unravel some key highlights that made XPharm 2023 an unforgettable experience!
Insightful Speakers: Navigating Academic Horizons!
On day 1, distinguished professors and passionate students shared the intricacies of the pharmacy and pharmaceutical science degrees at NUS, providing insights into the academic landscape and student life. Subsequently, a fireside chat featured esteemed industry luminaries, Mr. Benny Li (Head and Principal Pharmacist, National Skin Centre) and Mr. Marshall Liu (Direct Care Manager, Novo Nordisk). They shared life advice and on-the-job experiences, allowing participants to gain pearls of wisdom on navigating the complexities of life and career.
Fireside chat with industry luminaries (left) and Sharing by our professors and students (right)
Clinical Marvels: Bridging Theory and Practice!
From measuring blood pressure to patient counselling, pick and pack, and medication reconciliation, our clinical activities offered hands-on experiences, guiding participants beyond theoretical knowledge and into the practical domain of pharmacy. These immersive activities allowed participants to step into the shoes of pharmacists, simulating real-world healthcare scenarios.
Participants conducting medication reconciliation (left) and measuring blood pressure (right)
Hands-On Application: Exploring Pharmacists’ Expertise!
Participants gained knowledge about various dosage forms and acquired hands-on experience in compounding creams and capsules, providing insight into what a pharmacist can do when a preparation is not readily available in the pharmacy. The opportunity to create capsules and creams for the first time sparked excitement among many participants!
Participants engaged in capsule making (left) and cream making (right)
“Spice that Drug Up”: Creative Mastery!
The Shark Tank-inspired challenge empowered students to elevate pharmaceutical solutions to experience the intricate processes entailed in drug discovery and research and development. Each team received a specific drug and was tasked to enhance it in aspects such as efficacy, safety, and patient acceptability. This exercise not only enriched their comprehension of the industry but also offered insights into the intricate landscape of pharmaceutical innovation. The “sharks” were very impressed with the level of creativity and depth presented by the teams!
Participants collaborating as a team to discuss and present their enhanced drug solutions to the ‘sharks’.
“Pharmacy Pursuit”: Running Man Triumph!
On day 3, teams engaged in a competition, embarking on an exhilarating quest across the Faculty of Science campus. Their mission: decoding clues about patients’ ailments and locating hidden drugs – a test of teamwork and drug knowledge. Adding to the excitement, teams competed to be the first to solve the challenge, introducing an extra layer of thrill. To intensify the stakes, a name tag elimination was incorporated, heightening the competitive spirit and making this experience an opportunity for developing skills such as problem solving and collaboration.
Participants decoding clues about patient’s ailments and finding hidden drugs across the campus
Overall, XPharm 2023 offered an exploration of pharmacy and pharmaceutical science degrees at NUS. From insightful discussions to hands-on activities and creative challenges, it was an immersive journey to help pre-university students uncover, decide, and shape their academic destinies.
Memories captured! Group photo taken before saying our goodbyes.
Missed the excitement? Stay tuned for the next XPharm, where passion meets profession, and new academic pathways unfold! Follow @nusps.ppac on Instagram for the latest updates.
Article by Song Meow Ying (Year 3 Pharmacy student, Director of 63rd NUSPS Pharmacy Profession Awareness Committee)
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