Third-year PharmD students Hunter Johnson and Carryl Laserna were inducted into UGA’s Blue Key National Honor Society in a ceremony held at the University Chapel this past weekend.
A premier national honors organization recognizing top students from the nation’s best institutions, Blue Key members have distinguished character and integrity in the areas of scholarship, leadership, and service. Founded in 1926, the UGA chapter of the Blue Key Honor Society is the third oldest chapter in the national organization.
Originally from Alma, GA, Johnson plans to pursue a career as a nuclear pharmacist. He completed his nuclear pharmacy certificate though Purdue University College of Pharmacy. Johnson said of his recent honor, “Being selected for Blue Key means a great deal. I know motivation should be intrinsic, but I can’t deny that external validation and recognition feels nice. When I returned to pharmacy school, I made the decision to be more involved outside of the classroom—something I avoided at all costs during my undergraduate years. It feels good to know the extra hours and effort did not go unnoticed.”
Johnson commented on his commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service.
Why do you want to be a pharmacist?
I want to serve my community by using all the scientific knowledge and reasoning skills I’ve gained over time.
Where will you be during your fourth-year rotations?
I’ll be in the Atlanta area for my rotations, except for Block 1—I will be in Columbus for my nuclear pharmacy rotation.
What were you involved in at the College of Pharmacy?
- Current President of the Rho Chi Pharmacy Honor Society – Alpha Kappa Chapter
- Current Chair of the College of Pharmacy’s Dean’s Student Advisory Council (DSAC)
- Tutor for the College of Pharmacy
- Student representative for the College of Pharmacy on the UGA University Council
- Senator for the College of Pharmacy in the UGA Student Government Association
- Intern at Wellstar North Fulton and Kroger Pharmacy
Johnson added, “I’m excited to eventually work as a nuclear pharmacist and precept students!”
Laserna is rooted in Augusta, the town she calls home and where she currently is doing her third and fourth years of pharmacy school. Aspiring to be a clinical pharmacist specializing in oncology or critical care, Laserna remarked, “The motto of Blue Key is ‘Serving I Live.’ The heart and soul of pharmacy lies in service through patient-centered care, and it is an honor to be inducted into a society that upholds this value. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the College of Pharmacy with this prestigious recognition.”
Laserna reflected on her College of Pharmacy experience and her future career aspirations.
Why do you want to be a pharmacist?
Healthcare is an integral part of my family’s identity. Their dedication to the field inspired me and sparked my passion for giving back to my community through healthcare. I chose to pursue pharmacy, because I was intrigued by the patient-pharmacist relationship and the idea of being a medication expert.
Where will you be during your fourth-year rotations?
In Augusta at Wellstar MCG Health and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center.
What were you involved in at the College of Pharmacy?
- President of the Asian Pharmacy Student Organization
- Vice Chair of the Dean’s Student Advisory Council
- Worthy Correspondent for the Phi Delta Chi Pharmacy Fraternity
- Member of the Phi Lambda Sigma Leadership Society
- Member of the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists
Other activities?
- Pharmacy Intern at Wellstar MCG Health in Augusta
- Former Pharmacy Intern at the UGA Veterinary Teaching Hospital
- Former AHEC Scholar for the Foothills AHEC Program
- Currently participating in an MUE for Wellstar MCG to evaluate parenteral anticoagulant usage in high-risk obstetric patients.
