How can I improve my chances of being accepted into the PharmD program?

Question

I need to know what I can do to improve my chances of getting into these schools. I plan to apply to for the pharm D program

North Carolina for pharmacy

Purdue for pharmacy

Kentucky for pharmacy

California for pharmacy

Ohio State for pharmacy

Michigan for pharmacy

So far, this is what i have done through out my high school career. I've just finished my freshman year but I could always use pointers for how to achieve these goals.

Freshman year

Advanced Geometry A

Advanced English 1 A

Advanced Spanish 1 A

Advanced Biology A

AP Human Geography A and I got a 4 on the test

P.E./ Health A

next year i plan on taking Adv=advanced

Adv Algebra 2/Trig

Adv Chemistry

Adv Spanish 2

Adv English 2

Visual Arts 1

AP world civilization

I have a lot of extra curricular too...

volleyball (only freshman year though, I was cut this year)

quick recall (academic team)

legislative page state senate

future problem solvers

spanish club

class vp

student council

Answer 1

First, Ohio State requires a bachelors.  All the schools in CA have a de facto requirement of a bachelors.  The remaining schools require at least 2 years of college.

Your high school grades are absolutely irrelevant to PharmD admissions unless you are applying to a 6 year school.

Answer 2

It sounds like you are well on your way.  Keep the grades up, as well as the extracurriculars.  Many students (applicants) will have good grade points, but it is the extras (extracurricular activities, volunteerism, any kind of healthcare experience [maybe work at a nursing home or as a pharmacy tech in the summer]), and communication skills that will make you stand out from the pack.  Practice interviewing skills at some point before applying.  You might have the best odds applying in state rather than going out of state (most universities may favor their own state grads a bit).  Also, out of state tuition can be outrageous.  All are strong programs that you have listed, and are highly recommended.  I wish you the best; good career choice!  Hope you come to Michigan (Go Blue!)

Answer 3

Consider volunteer work at a hospital. A few hours a week will set you above your competition.