Priya Samuel
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I first started thinking about graduate school after chatting with a pharmacist at a third-year career event who had completed her Master’s in Education. Hearing her talk about the opportunities that opened up for her was eye-opening and really stuck with me. As a pharmacist, I had opportunities to be involved in research projects, but I often didn’t feel fully confident navigating the research process. Graduate school felt like a natural next step to build those skills more intentionally. I also really enjoyed teaching pharmacy students and residents and wanted more formal training and mentorship to grow as an educator.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Before apply to graduate programs, I spent time reflecting on my interests and goals, exploring different programs, and talking with mentors I trust. Through that process, I became confident that the program at the University of British Columbia in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences would be a great fit for me. I felt that the expanding scope of pharmacist prescribing in British Columbia provided an exciting opportunity for research in pharmacy education research and leadership. UBC also offers great opportunities for growth and mentorship as a graduate teaching assistant through programs like Centre for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning and the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology, which makes it an especially supportive place to develop as an educator.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was drawn to research in pharmaceutical sciences, particularly pharmacy education research and leadership, because it brings together my interests in clinical practice, research and education. I see it as a meaningful way to help shape future generations of pharmacists and ensure they have the support and tools they need to thrive as the scope of practice continues to evolve.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
One of the most meaningful parts of graduate school has been the friendships I’ve built with people who have come from all over the world. Learning alongside such a diverse group has broadened my perspective in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve also been struck by how supportive the community is, especially senior graduate students, who are often incredibly generous with their time, advice and mentorship.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Before starting graduate school, I worked as a prescribing pharmacist for six years. Although I practiced in a different province, I encountered many of the same challenges described by participants in my research. This experience has shaped how I interpret my findings and has allowed me to connect with participants in a meaningful way.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
My biggest advice is to take advantage of as many opportunities as you can. Go to the workshops, attend social events, present at conferences and say yes to experiences outside your immediate program. And don’t forget to get involved in your community, whether that’s on campus or beyond. Explore the city, try new things and build connections outside of your academic bubble — it all becomes part of your graduate experience.
Learn more about Priya's research
My research focuses on how pharmacists working in primary care in British Columbia are making prescribing-related decisions. In June 2023, pharmacists in British Columbia were granted the ability to prescribe medications independently, which means they can assess and treat patients without needing a prior diagnosis or prescription on file. The goal of pharmacist independent prescribing is to improve access to care; however, the autonomy places increased cognitive load and challenges on the pharmacists. The goal of my research is to understand how pharmacists who are prescribing are able to navigate the cognitive challenges they face in the decision-making process.
