For Brielle White, pharmacy is as much about communication and understanding as it is about chemistry and therapeutics. With a background that spans biomedical science, physical therapy–focused coursework, and a longstanding interest in art, White approaches healthcare through both analytical and creative lenses—an approach that ultimately led her to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at PCOM School of Pharmacy.
White did not initially set out to become a pharmacist. Early in her academic career, she planned to pursue physician assistant school, drawn by the opportunity for direct patient interaction and hands-on care. While completing her undergraduate studies at Wilmington University, she focused on biomedical science and physical therapy–related coursework, gaining a strong foundation in human physiology, movement, and rehabilitation. This training reinforced her belief in whole-person care and the importance of understanding how the body functions as an integrated system.
As her exposure to healthcare sciences deepened, White became increasingly interested in medications—not simply their outcomes, but their mechanisms. She began asking broader questions about when medications are necessary, how chemical compounds interact with the body, and how drug therapy can be used responsibly alongside nonpharmacologic approaches. Pharmacy emerged as a profession that allowed her to explore these questions in depth while maintaining a patient-centered perspective.
White first learned about PCOM while researching physician assistant programs. Through that process, she became familiar with PCOM’s School of Pharmacy and its PharmD program.
“Learning more about the program and its approach to clinical education and patient-centered care ultimately led me to consider pharmacy as a strong and fitting path within healthcare,” she noted.
Her decision to enroll at PCOM School of Pharmacy was shaped by several factors, including the institution’s emphasis on whole-person care. PCOM’s osteopathic philosophy—centered on treating patients as whole individuals rather than focusing solely on disease—closely aligned with White’s own approach to health and wellness. She was also drawn to the school’s supportive academic environment and its commitment to developing well-rounded healthcare professionals.
Within the PharmD program, White has found particular value in the depth of scientific training.
“While I value holistic wellness, learning the chemistry and mechanisms behind medications has been fascinating,” she observed. “The program has strengthened my ability to evaluate when medications are appropriate, how they affect the body, and how pharmacists can help optimize therapy while minimizing unnecessary use.”
White describes her interactions with faculty as consistently supportive and engaging. Faculty members encourage questions, discussion, and critical thinking, creating an environment that supports deeper learning.
“Their willingness to meet with students and provide guidance has made a meaningful impact on my academic growth,” she added.
While White continues to explore specific career paths within pharmacy, her long-term goals reflect a desire to integrate science, creativity, and holistic wellness. She is interested in roles that emphasize patient education, prevention, and individualized care.
“I also hope to incorporate creativity and artistic expression into health communication and outreach, using visual and innovative approaches to help patients better understand their care,” White shared. “Ultimately, I aim to contribute to healthcare in a way that is thoughtful, balanced, and patient-centered.”
White encourages prospective pharmacy students to remain open-minded about the profession. She emphasizes that pharmacy offers a wide range of opportunities and that aligning personal values with professional practice can lead to a more meaningful educational experience.
Through her training at PCOM, White has been able to bring together her interests in science, healthcare, and art (see examples below) into a cohesive professional identity.
“Art has taught me creativity, discipline, and communication, all of which translate into how I approach pharmacy and patient care,” White reflected. “PCOM has allowed me to integrate science, creativity, and holistic thinking into my professional identity, which has made my experience both challenging and fulfilling.”
All photos provided by Brielle White.
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