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Convocation Q&A: Chandni Sehgal, Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

Congratulations to all of our Faculty of Health graduates this year! To celebrate Convocation 2020, we chatted with students from across Dal Health. Today's Q&A profile features Chandni Sehgal, a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy grad.

How significant is it for you to receive this degree?

Receiving this degree was extremely significant as it will allow me to begin my career in patient care, which I’ve always been passionate about; become involved in life-long learning, as well as to use my knowledge in subject matters that I love!

What were the highlights of your degree?

The major highlight of my degree was the sense of family that I had developed with my friends, the class as a whole and the faculty of pharmacy. It is a very close-knit group and I can truly say that I will have the friends I’ve made in these 4 years for life!

I’ve also enjoyed being involved in the Dalhousie Student Pharmacy Society and the Canadian Association of Pharmacy Student and Interns – these organizations have allowed me to work with many future and current pharmacists who have inspired me in so many ways.

What will you miss about your time at Dal?

So many things! There are a lot of smaller, meaningful times that will just stick with me, such as long nights in the library studying with my friends. It was hard but we did it together and I will definitely miss that. I will most certainly miss the back-to-school time in September, when everyone comes back together and participates in orientation week with new students, as well as many other events – pharmacy ball, skit night, auction night, conferences etc.

I have made many connections with the faculty and staff at the College of Pharmacy and I will definitely miss seeing them every day. Lastly, I will miss the lifestyle of being a university student, but I am also ready and looking forward to entering the real world!

What brought you to Dal and to your program specifically?

Dal is located in my hometown. It was the university that many of my family members attended, so I was very keen to follow in their footsteps.

What topics/research/work did you become passionate about during your education?

Having my interest in science and patient care, I became involved in medical research since my first degree at Dal. Some of my work has been contributed towards research in molecular imaging for Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease; pharmacists’ role in mental health and addictions care; and self-administration of medication programs in the hospital setting. These experiences have led to my interest in pursuing a career in hospital pharmacy.

Given that graduates unfortunately couldn’t celebrate in person due to COVID-19, how did you celebrate this accomplishment?

I was fortunate enough to be able to have a small celebration with my family and significant other. We took fancy pictures in front of the iconic Dalhousie University sign on University Avenue, opened a bottle of champagne and some cake! The College of Pharmacy was able to organize a virtual celebration for the class of 2020, which I was not able to attend. However, I plan to watch the recording in the near future with my family.

What’s next for you?

I’m excited to have the opportunity to advance my learning through a pharmacy residency program at The Ottawa Hospital. I believe Dalhousie University has prepared me for a successful future and I wish the entire class of 2020 a hearty congratulations and the best of wishes!