Wilkes University to Hold Discover Pharmacy Camp on Aug. 11-12

Wilkes University to Hold Discover Pharmacy Camp on Aug. 11-12

For high school juniors and seniors who want to add something a little different to their list of things to do this summer, Wilkes University will offer Discover Pharmacy Camp from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11, and Wednesday, Aug. 12.

"It's a great opportunity for students to explore career pathways in pharmacy while connecting with a school known for its outstanding program," says Justin Collins EdD '25, director of admissions and student affairs for the Nesbitt School of Pharmacy. "It's an opportunity to discover the many possibilities the profession has to offer."

At a two-day session earlier this summer, campers gained insight into the work of a pharmacist. Through hands-on activities, they learned to administer lifesaving naloxone, prepare intravenous medication, take blood pressure readings and make cough drops using compounding. For some pharmacy fun, campers made aromatherapy-infused lip balm and answered questions to find their way out of a pharmacy escape room.

Dana Manning PharmD '08, associate professor of pharmacy practice, provided campers with a glimpse into the world of community pharmacy in her session on immunizations.

"Community pharmacies are the most accessible source of healthcare," says Manning. "Almost 90% of the people in the U.S. live within five miles of a pharmacy, and pharmacists are authorized to provide immunizations in all 50 states."

After reviewing a variety of common vaccines, Manning presented four patient cases and asked students to determine what vaccines were needed. Then campers had a chance to practice administering immunizations on some well-behaved volunteers including a stuffed bear, spider, cow and pig, each with a patch of material that mimics the texture of human skin.

Manning showed the campers how to handle and dispose of sharps safely. After donning protective gloves, the prospective pharmacists practiced injections on their furry fake patients under the supervision of Manning and P4 pharmacy students Mandy Muntz and Ada Soriano.

For these students, and volunteer Madison Hudak, a P3 pharmacy student, Discover Pharmacy Camp gives them a chance to share what they love about not just their chosen major, but the Nesbitt School of Pharmacy at Wilkes University.

"I help out because I feel passionate about pharmacy," says Hudak. "I want to help other people think about pharmacy and teach them what I know."

After learning from current Wilkes pharmacy students and faculty, campers had different take-aways from the experience. Chris Pirog, a senior at Wallkill High School in Wallkill, New York, enjoyed working with different scents to make lip balm. Nina Belza, a junior at Wyoming Area High School in Exeter, Pennsylvania, liked learning about different infectious diseases and the medicines available to treat them.

Paisley Holly, a junior at Elk Lake High School, appreciated the opportunity to wade into the world of pharmacy. "I'm exploring my options," she says. "I wanted to give it a try and see if I like it."

High school juniors and seniors who want an introduction to career paths in pharmacy and the life of a student in the Nesbitt School of Pharmacy at Wilkes can learn more or register for Discover Pharmacy Camp at wilkes.edu/discoverpharmacy.

Discover Pharmacy Camp
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 11, and Wednesday, Aug. 12
Cost: $85
Overnight accommodations not provided.
wilkes.edu/discoverpharmacy