Frank Michael Pompilio (USC PharmD ’90), Vice President of Medical Affairs at Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc., explains why he volunteers as a preceptor to mentor USC Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences students and introduce them to “real world” experiences.
Why did you choose to become a preceptor?
I am an alum (PharmD class of 1990) and wanted to provide pharmacy students with an opportunity to have exposure to the pharmaceutical industry environment. I became a preceptor in the mid 2000s.
How do preceptors play a vital role in preparing students for future jobs in the healthcare industry?
Preceptors provide students a safe environment to experience context within a setting. This provides the student greater insights into the career path they may wish to take.
What do you enjoy most about being a preceptor?
Enlightening students to experiences and opportunities they didn’t know existed. Most students come to our site without an understanding of medical affairs and leave with enough knowledge to pursue a career in industry, if this is a path they choose.
What advice do you have for current PharmD students?
Be open minded to all the opportunities your degree will offer you and be open minded to non-traditional paths available to develop new skills to achieve your career goals.
Why should other pharmacists consider being a preceptor for the school?
Being a preceptor is a great way to shape the future of our profession through the students being educated today. It also allows me to keep up with trends in the profession and get to know individuals who may end up as candidates for future positions at my institution.
Learn more about PharmD professional experience programs at USC Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Pharmacists: Interested in becoming a preceptor? Email pharmpep@usc.edu.