• Emily Crum ('15), Dyersburg, Tennessee
  
• Notable fact: I have a twin sister.

  Favorite Quote: “When you choose the paradigm of service, it turns everything you do from a job into a gift.” Oprah Winfrey

  What do you like best about the pharmacy? The faculty, staff and upperclassmen have been so welcoming and willing to help ensure that we, as first year students, are successful.

  What is your favorite book? Any Chicken Soup for the Soul.

  In what kind of setting do you want to practice? Compounding or nuclear pharmacy.
  
  

• Kanika Armour ('14), Memphis, Tennessee
  
• Who or what inspires you? Besides my family and friends I would have to say my professors. They are the most knowledgeable people I have ever met. They inspire me to learn and grow intellectually.

  Favorite Bible verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

  If you could go back and give your P1-year self some advice what would it be? Breathe and take things one day at a time.

  What has been your most rewarding experience of the program so far? In January 2011, several of the students, faculty and staff went on a mission trip to Belize. It was very spiritually renewing.

  What do you like best about the pharmacy program? The faculty, staff, classmates and our exceptional building!
  
  

• Angela Kee ('14), Threeway, Tennessee
  
• Favorite Quote: “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Unknown.

  What is your favorite book? Heaven by Randy Alcorn.

  What has been your most rewarding extracurricular activity? Organizing the American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists flu clinics has been a great experience. By reaching out to local pharmacies and other members of our community, I’ve had the chance to get to know a lot of new people.

  If you could go back and give your P1-year self some advice what would it be? Study hard in your first year so that your second year won’t be such a shock.

  Who or what inspires you? My great-grandmother has always been my inspiration because of her strong love for God and family.
  
  

• Sheena LeClerc ('14), Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Canada
  
• Who has been the most influential person in your life and why? I would have to say my mother. She has shown me how to be a strong, independent, and responsible young woman.

  What do you like best about the pharmacy program? The faculty and staff are among the most amazing people I have ever met in my life. They truly care about each student as individuals. They go above and beyond to make our experience a good one.

  Favorite quote: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Mark Twain

  When you have free time what do you like to do? Spend time with the ones I love, SCUBA diving, traveling to new places, and hiking.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Just be yourself – the rest will follow.
  
  

• Paul Lyons ('15), Lebanon, Indiana
  
• Favorite Quote: “There’s a time for daring and there’s a time for caution, and a wise man understands which is called for.” Dead Poets Society, Keating.

  Who has been most influential in your life? My parents have been so influential. They are the ones that instilled in me the morals, values, and patience I have today.

  Why did you choose Union’s pharmacy program? I was really impressed by the program and the personalities of the faculty and students who interviewed me.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? You’ll love it here – it is not easy but it is worth it.

  Why do you like best about the pharmacy program? The faculty are all incredibly friendly.

  What is your favorite book? Any of the Harry Potter series.
  
  

• Megan McAlpin ('13), Havre, Montana
  
• Favorite Quote: “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well have not lived at all – in which case you fail by default.” J.K. Rowling

  Who is the one person who has been most influential in your life? My mother – she raised my brother and me on her own for 12 years. She worked two jobs to give us chances and a life that she didn’t get to have. She’s one of the most generous and caring people I know.

  What do you like most about the pharmacy program? The faculty – I know each of them and they know me. I am not just another number here.

  In what kind of setting do you want to practice? I want to work in an urban hospital.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Visit the campus and get a good feel for the school and the people that are a part of it. Be prepared for a lot of hard but rewarding work.
  
  

• Justin Wilson ('13), LaFollette, Tennessee
  
• Notable fact: I am an Eagle Scout

  Favorite Quote: “Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.” Henry Ford.

  What has been your most rewarding extracurricular activity? Participating in Flu Shot Clinics and being a part of the Intramural Basketball Championship team in my P1 year.

  What inspires you? Knowing that I am going to be able to give back to my community once I graduate and begin my career inspires me. Being able to help people and extend excellent patient care to those I come in contact with will be very rewarding.

  In what kind of setting do you want to practice? I want to be in retail chain or community pharmacy.

  If you could go back and give your P1-self some advice what would it be? Study hard and learn as much pharmacy math as possible.
  
  

• Kate Wilcoxen ('14), Tuscaloosa, Alabama
  
• Notable fact: I took Greek in college for fun.

  Favorite Quote: “Opportunity is missed by most people because it comes dressed in overalls and looks like work.” Thomas Edison.

  What do you like best about the program? I love the fact that the faculty are available to talk to us whenever we need them. It makes it easy to deal with issues when you have people who are willing to help you through them.

  What has been your most rewarding extracurricular activity? Volunteering with fellow students at Rural Inter Faith Ministries has been very rewarding. There are so many good things going on there that help the underserved in our community.

  When you have free time what do you like to do? Watch Alabama football, Atlanta Braves baseball, cook, and enjoy good music.
  
  

• Donna Randolph ('14), Nashville, Tennessee
  
• Notable Fact: I was the only girl snare drummer in my high school drum line.

  Favorite Quote: “Be the person your dog thinks you are.” Unknown

  Who has been most influential in your life and why? My dad. At 74 years old, he still works full-time as a pharmacist and he instilled in me a belief that I could become a pharmacist, too.

  If you could go back and give your P1 year self some advice, what would it be? Really learn the ANS system in second semester Pharmacology because you will always need this information.

  Who inspires you? My mom. She went back to school and received her Doctorate of Education at the age of 69. Now, at the age of 73, she still works full time. She has taught me that it is never too late to pursue your dreams and that life is good!

  Why did you choose UUSOP? I believe that the faculty and staff truly care about each student. I knew that I would be encouraged both academically and spiritually in a Christ-Centered environment.
  
  

• Lauren Anderson ('14), Pegram, Tennessee
  
• Favorite Quote: “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Corrie Ten Boon

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? Visiting with the residents at Jackson Oaks – I have a passion for the geriatrics community and nothing melts my heart more that to sit and listen to them share their lives with me.

  Why did you choose UUSOP? The main reason I chose UUSOP is because of the strong Christian foundation in which it is established. Although my education is extremely important, my walk with the Lord is so much more important. The small class size and family feeling also had a large impact on my decision to choose Union as my pharmacy school.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? You need to study and work hard but don’t forget to have life outside of school, too. Breathe often and appreciate the opportunity you have been given. Take time to absorb every moment. There will be days that seem impossible but you will survive! Take one day at a time, keep pushing forward and never stop counting your blessings.

  What do you like best about UUSOP? The sincere intimacy that is shared between faculty/staff and students is my favorite thing about the UUSOP. I am thankful for the genuine love and care that I have been showered with since I began the program.
  
  

• Tucker Phillips ('15), Humboldt, Tennessee
  
• Favorite Quote: “Unless a man takes on more that he can possible do, he will never do all that he possibly can.” Henry Drummond

  Favorite Scripture: Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

  Who or What inspires you? Potential inspires me. What you can become should inspire you. There is always room to get better, be it physically, mentally or spiritually.

  What do you like best about UUSOP? The core values of Union University (Excellence-Drive, Christ-Centered, People-Focused, Future-Directed) definitely spill over into the UUSOP. What the faculty do and stand for, and the effort they put forth helps so much and is motivating.

  What is your favorite book? The Old Man And The Sea by Ernest Hemminway

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Work hard and get pharmacy experience.
  
  

• Jennie Allen ('15), Knoxville, TN
  
• Notable Fact: I am not a big fan of being outside in nature, but I do love to snowboard and go to the beach.

  Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

  Who is the one person who has been most influential in your life and why? The most influential person in my life would have to be my dad. He and my mom came to America with only $100. He worked very hard to support us. Even though language can still be a barrier at times, he is now a successful business owner.

  Who or what inspires you? My inspiration right now would have to be my classmates. We have all struggled with the same classes, but no matter the circumstances, we always support and encourage each other to do better.
  
  

• Ashley Pugh ('14), Henderson, TN
  
• Favorite Quote: “Let God have your life. He can do more with it that you can.” D.L. Moody

  Who is the one person who has been most influential in your life and why? My mother has been the most influential. I could not ask for a better Christian example. As I have grown up, I’ve had the opportunity to watch her be positive and encouraging time after time. I hope I am able to show my patients the kindness, understanding, and compassion she has always shown me.

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? I have two. First, serving as APhA-ASP chapter president, and second, being a part of the admissions committee. They are very different experiences, but both have fueled my love for UUSOP and the profession of pharmacy.

  Who or what inspires you? When I consider how small I am and how big God is. This puts things into perspective for me.

  Why did you choose UUSOP? The opportunity to pursue God’s calling in my life at a Christ-centered institution is like none other. I attended undergrad at Union and was greatly pleased with the quality of my education. I felt confident the pharmacy program would be outstanding as well.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Enjoy this exciting time of your life. It is also a time filled with important decisions. Approach these with prayer and trust that God will lead you down the right path.
  
  

• Amrish Patel ('14), Dallas, TX
  
• Favorite Quote: “In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: it goes on.” Robert Frost.

  Favorite Bible verse: John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

  If you could go back and give your P1-year self some advice what would it be? Read a little bit every day even if it is only for 1 hour.

  What do you like best about UUSOP? We have great faculty members that make sure we understand the material and are always available to help you out.

  Who has been the most influential in your life and why? My parents have been supportive of me and have always looked out for my best interest.
  
  

• Kevin Arrison ('16), Memphis, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I met my fiancée when I was 5 at the church we grew up in together. We have been together since the 10th grade.

  Favorite Quote: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Mahatma Gandhi.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Study hard in your undergraduate classes and get ready to study even harder when you come to pharmacy school!

  Who is the one person who has been most influential in your life and why? My father. He is a nursing home administrator and I see how kind and helpful he is to all the residents there. I grew up watching him work and learning from my father the importance of helping others no matter what their circumstances may be.

  What do you like best about UUSOP? I love how the professors truly care about all of their students and go the extra mile to make sure the students understand the material being covered.

  In what type of pharmacy setting do you want to practice? I would like to be in a community pharmacy practice where I can talk with patients and help them every day.
  
  

• Melissa Bien-Aime ('16), Spring Valley, New York
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I am first generation American born to Haitian parents.

  Favorite Quote: “When life hands you a hundred reasons to cry show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile.” Unknown

  Favorite book: Maya Angelou’s Phenomenal Woman

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? My involvement in Youth Town. Being a mentor and role model for troubled youths is an amazing experience. I love making a difference in someone’s life.

  What do you like best about UUSOP? I love the student to teacher ratio (~10:1). It is not hard to get help from a professor when needed.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Keep your heart and mind open. Come with a great attitude, get involved and be a good steward of your time while in school. Make the very most of your pharmacy school experience.
  
  

• Brittany Gooch ('16), Nashville, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I played college softball at the University of Memphis

  Favorite Quote: “I can do nothing incredible, but as I follow God into impossible situations He can work miracles in and through me.” Katie Davis

  Favorite Bible verse: Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? Volunteering. I am involved in some of the pharmacy student organizations and we do a lot to give back to the community.

  In what type of pharmacy setting do you want to practice? I want to practice in a hospital setting and be a clinical pharmacist.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Research every pharmacy program that interests you. Schedule visits to those programs and make sure that it is good fit for you. Also, pray, work hard and be dedicated to your studies.
  
  

• Shawn Kinsey ('16), Murray, Kentucky
  
• Favorite Bible verse: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

  Who has been the most influential in your life and why? My father and my grandfathers have equally influenced my life by showing me and helping me learn what it takes to become successful and the importance of taking the road that presents as the most trying one.

  Why did you choose the UUSOP? I chose Union because of the emphasis put on what truly matters in the pharmacy profession, the patient. Union’s Christ-centered environment sets a foundation to what makes a great pharmacist.

  When you have free time what do you like to do? Ride motorcycles, play golf and spend time with family and friends.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Work hard. Let your passion for pharmacy drive the efforts that direct your future. What you dream of may be found right here at Union and it is attainable. Pharmacy school isn’t easy, but if you want it badly enough for both you and the patient’s whose lives you want to change, then grab hold and don’t let go. If you can do that and believe in yourself you will find success.
  
  

• Dariona Middleton ('15), Millington, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I am a first generation college graduate in my family and will be the first in my family to receive a doctoral degree.

  Favorite quote: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou

  Who is the one person who has been most influential in your life and why? My dad has been the most influential in my life. He has rooted me in the word of God and has shown me that with hard work, determination, and faith, anything is possible. He is the reason why I decided to pursue pharmacy as a career.

  If you could go back and give your P1-self advice what would it be? Study hard but still find time to have fun along the way by getting involved in extracurricular activities.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? If pharmacy is your passion don’t take no for an answer. Prove yourself worthy of the opportunity by staying focused, working hard and remember why you want to become a pharmacist. If you can, try to get experience in a pharmacy to ensure that it is something you truly want to pursue.
  
  

• Jonathan Mitchell ('14), Ripley, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I have a twin brother who is in medical school.

  Favorite quote: “Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.” Dr. Seuss

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? Becoming President-Elect of the Tennessee Society of Student Pharmacists. It has given me the opportunity to build relationships with some of the most influential pharmacists and student pharmacists across the state of Tennessee.

  If you could go back and give your P1-self one advice what would it be? Enjoy every second that you have with your classmates. Pharmacy school flies by so build relationships while you can and try not to stress out too much.

  Why did you choose the UUSOP? I love the small class size. I wanted to be more than a number in a classroom and since I have been here I have built relationships that will last a lifetime.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Don’t limit yourself. Whatever you want in life you need to be actively pursuing it, building relationships and working past your potential.
  
  

• Sam Shah ('15), Clifton, New Jersey
  
• Favorite quote: “The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.” Vince Lombardi

  Favorite Bible verse: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…” Matthew 7:12

  Who has been the most influential in your life and why? My father. He always pushes me and demands excellence from me.

  What do you like best about the UUSOP? The way that the faculty and staff know every student by name and are always available to help students when they need something.

  Why did you choose Union? The faculty, staff and students I met on interview day really made me feel at home.

  Favorite book: The Great Gatsby

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Be ready to learn and have a positive attitude about school and the profession of pharmacy.
  
  

• Shelbie Ralph ('16), Ballard County, Kentucky
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I play the guitar

  Favorite quote: “If your dreams don’t scare you they are not big enough.” Unknown\

  Favorite scripture: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

  What has been your most rewarding extracurricular activity? I have two favorites: serving as the women’s intramural chair for my class and serving on the UUSOP Admissions Committee. I enjoy sports and love that I can continue to play them while in pharmacy school. It’s also a great stress reliever and has brought me closer to my classmates who also play intramurals. I have really enjoyed serving on the Admissions Committee because I get to meet amazing prospective students and help show them all the great things that make the UUSOP so special.

  When you have free time what do you like to do? Play my guitar, spend time with family and friends, catch up on my favorite TV shows as well as catch up on my sleep.
  
  

• Jenna Ramage ('16), Hernando, Mississippi
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I was Miss Tennessee High School Rodeo Queen 2007.

  Favorite quote: “Expecting life to treat you well because you are a good person is like expecting an angry bull not to charge because you are a vegetarian.” Unknown

  Favorite Bible verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

  Who is the one person who has been most influential in your life and why? My Memaw. She has been through many hardships and she still has such joy in her life. She loves the Lord with all her heart and has influenced me in my faith and values.

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? I have really enjoyed serving as my class secretary and planning events for our class to do together.

  Why did you choose the UUSOP? The friendly and loving staff and faculty. I can see how much they truly care for each student in the program.

  When you have free time what do you like to do? I enjoy competing in rodeos and barrel races.
  
  

• Makita Reed ('15), Memphis, Tennessee
  

• Favorite quote: “The time is always right to do what is right.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

  Favorite Bible verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3: 5-6

  Who has been the most influential person in your life and why? My mother. She was taught by my grandmother how to be strong, hard-working, graceful and above all else a good Christian woman. As I’ve gotten older I now appreciate her instilling those same values in me. My mother is my biggest fan, cheerleader, supporter, life coach and best friend. She sees the good in every situation and is always positive and encouraging.

  Who or what inspires you? Ordinary people who have overcome great obstacles in life. God using them to do extraordinary things truly inspires me. They give me a sense of hope in knowing that I too, with God’s help, can succeed.

  Why did you choose the UUSOP? I chose Union because of the smaller class size, unique curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities. When I toured the campus and met the faculty and staff I fell in love with everything about the program.
  
  

• Brittany Reeves ('16), Knoxville, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I have been playing percussion from the age of 5 years old. I marched snare drum on my high school drum line and I also played timpani in my church orchestra.

  Favorite quote: “We can complain because the rose bushes have thorns or rejoice because thorns bushes have roses.” Abraham Lincoln.

  Favorite Bible verse: “But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

  Who or what inspires you? My parents have always been the most supportive people in my life. They are constantly lifting me up, making me laugh, and inspiring me to do my best.

  What do you like best about the UUSOP? I am most thankful that our professors want each student to succeed and become exceptional pharmacists. They truly want everyone to excel and are always willing to do what they can to help make that happen.

  When you have free time what do you like to do? I love to draw, paint, and spend time with my family.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Remember to support one another during stressful times. Words of encouragement can make a big difference in someone’s day.
  
  

• Jenni Seddelmeyer ('14), Jackson, Tennessee
  
• Who has been the most influential person in your life and why? My mother – she is a strong and intelligent individual who is an amazing Christian. She has always been a wonderful example of how to be a great mother and friend.

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? Helping elderly patients understand their Medicare Part D plan options. They are so grateful for the explanations and the time taken to help them.

  Who or what inspires you? My desire to lead a wholesome Christian life inspires me in all that I do. I want to glorify God in every aspect of my life and strive to use the talents He has blessed me with to the best of my abilities.

  If you could go back and give your P1-self advice what would it be? Get a planner. At the beginning of each semester when you get each class syllabus write down each assignment, quiz, lab, and exam that you will have. This helps you to better plan your time and see the big picture and make the semester less stressful.

  What do you like best about the UUSOP? I love the small class size and the close relationships that students can develop with their professors. I also love that prayer and strong Christian values are a constant part of our learning experience.
  
  

• Erin Simpson ('16), Nashville, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I was born on Valentine ’s Day.

  Favorite Bible verse: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

  Who or what inspires you? Anyone who comes through trouble circumstances as a stronger and better person.

  Why did you choose the UUSOP? When I visited and interviewed I felt like they really cared about me as a person and not just another paycheck or number in a classroom chair.

  What advice do you have for prospective students? Don’t get behind on your studies!
  
  

• Robin Williams ('16), LaVergne, Tennessee
  
• Notable or unique fact about you: I am one number 5 of 10 children.

  Favorite quote: “Faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the staircase.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

  Who is has been most influential in your life and why? My mother. She is a single mother who raised me and my siblings while attending school and working full-time. She taught me to work hard in life and you can accomplish anything you set forth to do.

  What has been your most rewarding UUSOP extracurricular activity? Working as a volunteer with Room at the Inn. Taking time to visit with individuals who have so little has been very encouraging.

  What do you like best about the UUSOP? The faculty prays for the students before our lectures and exams. Also, UUSOP faculty members are very passionate and knowledgeable about the profession of pharmacy. They are willing to go the extra mile to make sure students learn and understand what is being taught.

  Why did you choose the UUSOP? I loved the fact that being Christ-Centered is part of the mission statement. I knew that this was the best place for me to be. Without Christ I am nothing and with him I have everything that I need. So, having Christ in the curriculum and the environment allows me to be successful not only in the program but in the profession.
  
  

• 10/3/2012 - School of Pharmacy sponsors blood drive
• 9/6/2012 - Pharmacy students hold health screenings at Generals game
• 8/22/2012 - Stoneking describes diabetes, amputation as gifts from God
• 6/27/2012 - Full accreditation status granted for Union Doctor of Pharmacy program
• 5/16/2012 - School of Pharmacy students, faculty win AACP scholarships
• 3/21/2012 - Blanton, Coffer win Preceptor of the Year awards from Union’s School of Pharmacy
• 2/1/2012 - King receives $10,000 AACP grant for pharmacy research
• 7/30/2011 - Summer graduation concludes ‘marvelous’ year at Union University
• 2/23/2011 - Pharmacy students meet spiritual, physical needs in Belize
• 8/25/2010 - Union dedicates Providence Hall, a testimony to God’s care for the university
• 7/27/2010 - Union completes construction on School of Pharmacy’s Providence Hall
• 6/30/2010 - Monahan presents research on Parkinson’s disease at Ireland conference

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