The College of Pharmacy’s Student Affairs Office, in conjunction with other College and University units, hosts several annual signature events, which includes PharmDiscovery Week (our new student orientation), Pathways to Pharmacy Careers, White Coat Ceremony, and Commencement.
PharmDiscovery Week
The University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy annually hosts PharmDiscovery Week, a comprehensive orientation meticulously planned and executed by the Office of Student Affairs. This event welcomes new students, providing them with the opportunity to meet peers, faculty, and administration, and to gain a clear understanding of what the next four years will entail. Participants will receive regular updates and essential information from the Office of Student Affairs throughout the summer. For any inquiries, students are encouraged to reach out to pharmdsa@cop.ufl.edu. Let’s make this the best start ever!
Pathways to Pharmacy Careers
The Office for Student Affairs annually hosts the Pathways to Pharmacy Careers event, designed to illuminate the diverse career opportunities available to today’s pharmacists. Attendees will hear firsthand from pharmacists about their unique career paths and experiences. The event features an exhibit hall filled with employers and educational programs eager to connect with students. Additionally, students will have the chance to interview with potential employers on the spot. Stay tuned for updates on confirmed employers, speakers, and exhibit hall presenters. Specific details will be provided to students in early fall. Get ready to be inspired and take the first step towards your future in pharmacy!
Student Organization Annual Retreat (SOAR)
The University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy annually hosts the Student Organization Annual Retreat or SOAR, a student leadership event meticulously planned and executed by student leaders with guidance from the student affairs staff. This annual event unites students and professionals from various pharmacy fields for a day filled with collaboration and learning. Participants have the unique opportunity to engage and network with college partners, gaining deeper insights into leadership and their future roles as pharmacists. The retreat is structured as a one-day professional conference, featuring keynote addresses, breakout sessions on specific topics, and interactive activities. A social component, either the night before or the evening of the event, adds a layer of camaraderie and connection. This tri-campus event consistently provides an enriching experience, fostering professional growth and building lasting relationships within the pharmacy community.
Faculty Auction
Each year, this beloved event brings together students and faculty to foster meaningful connections, create lasting memories, that support a variety of student activities. Faculty and staff members curate unique event packages for students to enjoy. On this special evening, all three campuses unite for an exciting auction that is anything but silent. Students form groups to bid on their favorite event packages. Faculty and staff generously cover the actual costs of these packages, ensuring that all funds raised from student bids directly support student-faculty engagement events throughout the year. Past event packages have included a half marathon race followed by brunch, an authentic Japanese meal at a faculty member’s home, and a fun-filled bowling night at Disney Springs. Packages are available in Gainesville, Jacksonville and Orlando. This event consistently provides an incredible opportunity to connect, engage, and make unforgettable memories.
Board of Presidents’ Leadership Summit
Current presidents of each student organization from all three campuses gather for this enriching retreat. Over the summer, attendees receive a book focused on personal or professional development, which becomes the centerpiece of workshops during the summit. Throughout the retreat, students engage in discussions and activities based on the book’s content, hear important updates from College administrators about the upcoming year, and have ample opportunities to collaborate and socialize with their peers from other campuses. This annual event consistently fosters leadership growth, enhances professional skills, and strengthens the bonds between student leaders across the campuses
Pharmily Village Meetings
The Pharmily Villages initiative is dedicated to creating a supportive community, stimulating leadership development, aiding academic transitions, and enhancing student retention. Each Pharmily Village is thoughtfully designed to promote inclusivity, increase awareness of campus services, and offer consistent, reliable support for first-year students. Monthly meetings are a cornerstone of this initiative, where Pharmily Village leaders present carefully selected information. These required gatherings provide first-year students with the opportunity to interact with and learn from second- and third-year students, all while enjoying a fun and engaging environment. Past meeting topics have included preparation for Block Two, strategies for student organization elections, and discussions on mental health. This initiative consistently helps first-year students build connections, develop skills, and navigate their academic journey with confidence.
Rho Chi & Phi Lambda Sigma Initiation Ceremonies
Every spring, the College proudly inducts new members into Rho Chi, the Pharmacy Honor Society, and Phi Lambda Sigma, the National Pharmacy Leadership Society. These prestigious ceremonies rotate among the three campuses each year, bringing together students, supporters, and community members from across Florida. The events celebrate academic excellence and leadership, providing a platform for recognizing the outstanding achievements of our students. Attendees enjoy the opportunity to connect with peers, faculty, and community members, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the College. These annual ceremonies are a highlight of the academic year, honoring the dedication and hard work of our students while strengthening the bonds within our College community.
Campus Awards and Scholarship Ceremonies
Every April, each campus hosts its own unique ceremony, reflecting the distinct personality of that campus. These ceremonies are a highlight of the academic year, celebrating the achievements and contributions of our student community. Each event features a special theme, chosen to represent the spirit of the campus. Student organizations present awards to their members, and campuses recognize the outstanding accomplishments of student leaders. The evening culminates with the presentation of scholarships and awards for the upcoming academic year. These ceremonies are always a favorite among students, providing a memorable evening of celebration, recognition, and community.
Student Engagement Celebrations
At the College of Pharmacy, we believe in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community through our Student Engagement Celebrations. These events are designed to bring students, faculty, and staff together throughout the year, creating opportunities for connection, relaxation, and fun outside the academic environment. Our celebrations include a variety of themed gatherings, such as seasonal festivities, holiday treats, and special appreciation days. Whether it’s enjoying sweet treats during Halloween, sipping warm cider in winter, or sharing candies on Valentine’s Day, these events are a perfect way to unwind and build lasting memories with peers and mentors.
White Coat Ceremony
The annual College of Pharmacy White Coat Ceremony celebrates and acknowledges students’ journeys toward becoming professional practitioners of pharmacy. This significant event symbolizes their growth in both ability and responsibility to provide pharmaceutical care to patients. Held in the spring, this ceremony is a cherished tradition, marking an important milestone in students’ professional development and commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical care. First-year students from all three campuses join with their loved ones and are coated by their faculty, alongside donors who generously purchase coats for the students.
Senior Awards and Commencement
The evening before graduation, fourth-year students and their loved ones are invited to a special banquet honoring the academic, professional, and research achievements of the class. Class representatives deliver speeches, awards are presented, and excitement builds on the eve of one of the biggest milestones in students’ academic careers. The next day Commencement brings together deans, faculty, and distinguished guests to celebrate students joining an exclusive network of nearly 15,000 College of Pharmacy alumni living with members of the Gator Nation in all 50 states and more than 45 countries. This event is rightfully our biggest of the year, marking a significant achievement and the beginning of a new chapter for our graduates.