Pacific pharmacy student one of the nation’s 10 best for public service

University of the Pacific pharmacy student Rose Moua ’25, who chose her field of study to help others, has a national award to show for her efforts.

Moua was one of 10 students selected for the United States Public Health Service Excellence in Pharmacy Award. Each university or college with a pharmacy school can nominate one student for the award, which is based on public service.

“This is an impressive accomplishment by a very deserving student,” said Berit Gundersen, dean of the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy at Pacific. “Rose is dedicated to the field and has a very bright future. We are proud of her.”

Moua, a native of Fresno, frequently takes part in School of Pharmacy clinics, Medicare guidance for seniors and other community outreach. She reflects on her studies and career goals.

Why did you choose pharmacy as your future profession?

Moua: My mother and I went to a pharmacy one day because my sister had a cold. They had two medications–one expensive, one affordable. It made me realize how expensive some medications are. At that moment, I decided I wanted to be a pharmacist so I could help people who might not know about affordable medical options.

How will the pharmacy profession change in the future?

Moua: I work at a Walmart pharmacy as an intern and there is more focus on ambulatory care (which includes observation, consultation, diagnosis, treatment and more). It excites me to move in this direction because we will be able to help patients in new and different ways.

What does the award mean to you?

Moua: I was surprised just to be nominated, since that process also is so competitive. I was honored that people thought so highly of me. And then to be named to the Top 10 is a validation of why I went into pharmacy.

How did you learn about the honor?

Moua: It was kind of funny. I was nominated by Dr. Raj Patel, my professor. I had finished a work packet prior to a class, so I did not have to attend. Dr. Patel sent me a text and asked me to come in. I thought I had done something wrong. But after I got there, he announced the award and everyone clapped. The dean and others from Pacific were there. It was a great moment and a memory to last a lifetime.