As with any field, preparation is the key to success in pharmaceutical careers. Besides good grades and professional networking, internships are an advantage for those in the pharmaceutical job market and a requirement for those pursuing a pharmacy license. One of the country's largest and most competitive programs in the Industry Internship Program offered by the American Pharmaceutical Association and the Academy of Students of Pharmacy. Clinical intensive trainees work in the medical affairs department, providing product information and labeling, as well as analyzing adverse drug reactions, while those assigned to the research intensive conduct actual research on a given project. Additionally, applicants should try and be involved with the student chapters of professional organizations.
Communication skills are also highly valued.
The threat of malpractice notwithstanding, pharmacists need to make it their business to remain knowledgeable about recent developments and to inform their clientele accordingly. Along with academic preparation, students need to be emotionally ready to fight the twin evils of racism and sexism. When books such as the controversial The Bell Curve make the outlandish claim that African-Americans are genetically inferior, the already tough battle to prove competence becomes tougher, especially for those entering the sciences. Regardless of what road graduates take, there are more opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry than ever before. Pharmacists are being tapped to serve on various college, hospital and corporate boards.