Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Banuelos.
Hi Leslie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I am originally from Buena Park, CA. I went to undergrad at the University of California, Riverside where I received my bachelor of science degree in biochemistry with an emphasis in medical sciences. I attended pharmacy school at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA and I started documenting my journey through pharmacy school online hoping to guide others interested in the field of pharmacy. As a first-generation student, I didn’t have anyone to look up to and when I entered into pharmacy school, I knew I wanted to be that resource for others.
During my third year of pharmacy school, my husband (a previous critical care nurse) started medical school at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, MD. When it came time to apply for residency during my fourth year of pharmacy school, I knew that the University of Maryland Medical Center was where I wanted to complete my residency due to being one of the most highly regarded trauma centers and my interest in critical care and emergency medicine.
I was ultimately matched to the University of Maryland Medical Center and moved to Baltimore in June to start my residency. I have loved my time here and decided to apply to commit to emergency medicine for a second year.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been easy! Both of my parents emigrated from Mexico, and as the oldest in my family and a first-generation college student, I faced unique challenges. Venturing away from home for college, I had to navigate independence, a rigorous curriculum, and work responsibilities. It was a constant struggle, especially considering the looming uncertainty of my parents’ residency status and the potential threat of deportation, which deeply impacted my academic performance.
At the end of my third year of undergrad, I sought guidance from an academic advisor about my aspirations to apply to pharmacy school. I received disheartening news and I was informed that I wouldn’t be a competitive candidate for pharmacy school. My heart breaks for that girl who left that appointment in tears, as I know how much she yearned to turn her dreams into reality. The fear of investing effort only to face rejection almost made me reconsider my ambitions. I graduated undergrad with a 2.97 GPA with no honors or cords.
Yet, I refused to give up. I spent two years at a community college, retaking courses to improve my grades. This time, I earned A’s in all the courses I had previously struggled with, obtained pharmacy experience working at CVS, and ultimately was accepted to my top choice pharmacy school. If there’s one invaluable lesson my journey has taught me, it’s the power of resilience. I ended up graduating with the highest honors, top of my class with a 3.96 GPA, Rho Chi, placed second in the nation out of all 138 pharmacy schools alongside my best friend and dream partner at the ASHP Clinical Skills Competition, had 11 residency interviews and matched to my dream residency program.
Throughout this entire journey, I have been fortunate to document every step with the support of 6,000 followers on this account I created during my first year, unaware of what it would be, and continue to share now through my journey through residency!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a PGY-1 pharmacy resident which means I am a pharmacist pursuing clinical training and I just applied to early commit to a second year in emergency medicine.
Throughout my emergency medicine rotation, I found myself captivated by being in this setting, having the opportunity to witness intense moments such as cardiac arrests, seizures, and intubations, and being able to contribute to the care of these critically ill patients.
I’m most proud of my growth in my clinical skills and confidence as a new clinician and I believe this is largely due to my dedication to patient care and desire to continue to learn and grow.
What matters most to you?
I want to be remembered as a caring individual and someone who is always there for others which encompasses many aspects of my life.
In one aspect, I want to be dependable for my family and friends. In another, I want to be able to hone my craft and be the best that I can be for my patients. Lastly, for my followers, I want to be able to serve as a role model and continue to mentor pre-pharmacy and pharmacy students.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesliebpharmd/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-banuelos
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/lesliebpharmd
