Student Pharmacist Trades Scrubs for a White Coat 
Hinal Patel (PharmD '30)

October 30, 2026

Working as a medical assistant (MA), Hinal Patel (PharmD '30) saw countless providers ease patients’ fears while coordinating treatment and found herself wondering about the medications woven into those plans. Now, as a student in the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program at PCOM Georgia, Patel is trading her MA scrubs for a white coat of her own.

“The white coat means something different,” she said. “It means I’m no longer just watching. It’s a sign that I believe in myself, and that I’m ready to take on real responsibility for my patients’ care.”

Patel recalls one experience that turned her curiosity into a career goal. A patient preparing for Mohs surgery reported reactions to lidocaine, epinephrine and bupivacaine, raising questions about which medications could be used safely during the procedure. A pharmacist was able to help identify a safe alternative, allowing the surgery to occur.

“I was fascinated by the reasoning behind choosing one medication over another, and by the difference that knowledge made for a patient,” she said. “Pharmacy lets me keep caring for patients while understanding medications deeply enough to give them the best care possible.”

Born in Ahmedabad, India, Patel’s family moved to Georgia when she was only three.

“My parents came here with very little. They left their family behind and started from scratch: new jobs, a new community, a new life. I watched them build everything we have through hard work, and they always made sure I never took it for granted.”

Suwanee soon became home, and PCOM Georgia felt like the right place to continue her education.

“When I toured the campus, I saw how strong the support system was, and I knew that was exactly what I needed for the next four years. I was so nervous on interview day, but the moment I walked into the building, everyone was so warm and welcoming that I felt like I belonged. The faculty I met, including the ones interviewing me, made me feel completely at ease. It felt like I was talking to a friend.”

Patel aspires to be the kind of pharmacist who makes sure every patient receives safe, thoughtful medication care and feels seen and supported along the way, following the example of those who inspired her during her time as a medical assistant. When she thinks about receiving her white coat, she knows the moment belongs not only to her, but also to the people who helped her reach it.

“This white coat isn’t only mine. My parents will be in the audience, and my family and friends will be watching from home. When I receive it, I’ll be honoring everything my parents sacrificed to give me this chance, from starting over in a new country to giving me opportunities they never had.”

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