Ali Roberts

How would you describe your college experience?

My undergraduate experience was challenging.  I underestimated the importance of attending class during my first year at MTSU, and I spent the next 2 years trying to repair my damaged GPA.  I was enrolled in the pre-pharmacy program that allows for required undergraduate courses to be completed in 3 years and upon admission to a pharmacy program, you are eligible to receive a Bachelor’s degree after the first year of pharmacy school.  Needless to say, I felt an immense amount of pressure to complete all the required coursework in 3 years in addition to maintaining an adequate GPA for acceptance, all while participating in extracurricular activities to boost my application.  I like to refer to times such as these as “character building experiences”.

With plenty of help and support, I gained acceptance into Belmont’s inaugural pharmacy school class after my 3 years at MTSU.  Humbling does not even begin to describe my journey.  I was blessed with some of the best classmates, and we became a tightknit group with a class of just seventy-five.  Being able to juggle responsibility with fun is a skill that (for some of us) comes with age, and I made some of my most favorite memories during pharmacy school.  MTSU equipped me with all the essential tools for success; as a result, I struggled less in pharmacy school than some of my peers.  I encourage everyone following the path towards graduate school to keep in mind that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  The road may not be as direct as you would like but with enough determination, you will make it to your desired destination.

When did you know that you wanted to major in a STEM discipline?

After taking several aptitude tests in high school, I resigned that my strengths were rooted firmly in healthcare.  I considered the benefits and detractors associated with varying healthcare careers, and I landed on pharmacy.  It was a relatively easy decision as STEM fields contribute to all major societal advancements, and the potential impact factor of a career in a STEM field is limitless. 

What is the most rewarding thing that you do in your job as a STEM professional?

My job is extremely rewarding as it offers an avenue to interact and collaborate with a diverse group of individuals and practitioners.  I have an opportunity to learn something new every single day, and it never gets stale.  We are all working towards the common goal of providing optimal patient care, and the knowledge we can gain from one another is astounding.

What would you tell a middle or high school girl about careers in STEM?

You should release all your inhibitions and self-doubt about pursuing a career in STEM.  As women, we often under