Seven pharmacists recognized as EPE Preceptors of the Year

2024 EPE-1 and EPE-2 Preceptors of the Year

Early practice experience (EPE) rotations provide students with direct patient care experience in community or institutional pharmacies within the first two years of their pharmacy education. Students participate in the day-to-day services of the pharmacy setting, which allows them to apply the knowledge and skills gained through their courses.

Preceptors at these rotations provide invaluable guidance and support at the beginning of a student’s pharmacy career and are critical to providing a high-quality learning experience.

Nominated by their students, the EPE Preceptors of the Year go above and beyond in teaching the next generation of pharmacists. This year, five community pharmacists and two hospital pharmacists were recognized for providing outstanding learning experiences in EPE rotations.

EPE-1

Mais Bahajaj, Rexall Pharmacy #8177

“Being recognized as Preceptor of the Year is a tremendous honour that reflects the hard work and dedication I've put into mentoring students. It validates my commitment to fostering their growth and development in pharmacy practice.

This recognition not only highlights the impact I've had on my students but also inspires me to continue striving for excellence in teaching and mentoring. It reinforces the importance of building strong relationships and creating a positive learning environment, which ultimately benefits both the students and the profession as a whole. Overall, being a preceptor is a rewarding experience that I truly cherish.”

Amit Bhanot, Broadway Pharmasave

“I find great fulfillment in mentoring students, guiding them through the complexities of pharmacy practice, and witnessing their professional growth. It’s incredibly rewarding to play a role in shaping the future of our field. … [I] encourage students to ask questions and share their perspectives. This approach not only enriches their learning experience but also provides valuable insights for preceptors.

Being recognized by students is incredibly meaningful to me. It validates the effort and passion I put into mentoring and reinforces the value of creating a supportive learning environment.”

Elaina Cheng, Shoppers Drug Mart #1499

“I really enjoy seeing the students grow in their practice and become more confident in their skills. Don't be afraid to challenge the students to be adaptable to the many changes that come with this dynamic field of pharmacy.

I am truly humbled to receive a Preceptor of the Year award. It was a total surprise, and I feel so very appreciated.”

EPE Preceptors of the Year receiving their awards at the 2024 Undergraduate Awards Ceremony on September 26, 2024 at the University of Toronto's Hart House. From left to right: Jamie Av, Dean Lisa Dolovich, Mais Bahajaj, Elaina Cheng, Santhosh Sekharan, Carolyn Kasprzak and Marcia McLean, assistant professor, teaching stream.

EPE-2

Jamie Av, Shoppers Drug Mart #1410

“I enjoy seeing the growth and development of my students, building those new bonds and relationships, and seeing how they can contribute in their future pharmacy practice.

The preceptor-student relationship is mutually beneficial. It is a reciprocal exchange of ideas and approaches to problems to help better one another. … As pharmacists, we never stop learning as our field is forever evolving. I was fortunate enough to have great preceptors during my time as a student and I feel it is my duty to help pay it forward. This award helps validate all the hard work striving towards that goal.”

Carolyn Kasprzak, William Osler Health System – Etobicoke General Hospital

I enjoy seeing my students gain confidence as they progress through their rotation and seeing their satisfaction and fulfilment of being able to apply their learnings from school to hands-on patient care. I enjoy being a supportive and resourceful preceptor, knowing it is invaluable to the students I work with. Their questions are always welcome, and I hope that I provide them with the skills to become amazing pharmacists.

Earning this award makes me feel appreciated for the time and effort I take when I precept. I have always enjoyed teaching, so it assures me that my students also take away a lot from their rotations with me. … It feels great to give back some of the teachings that I had learned as a student and beyond.”

Santhosh Sekharan, Little Avenue Pharmacy

“I enjoy the novelty and variety of student experiences that come walking through the door. Each student has a refreshingly different personality, past experience and work-related strength. It is a welcome challenge to ascertain how they work best and champion them to do even better over the course of the rotation. It is great to cultivate the right blend of competence and confidence in the short time spent together.

In the professional sphere, this award is a new realm of success and excellence. … I am extremely humbled and elated to receive this award. It has inspired me to continue to prioritize student learning during their time at our pharmacy.”

Cindy Shen, North York General Hospital

“I really enjoyed seeing students grow and develop their critical thinking skills throughout their time with us. Witnessing their progress is incredibly rewarding. As a recent graduate, I have had some amazing preceptors throughout my schooling and residency. One thing that I learned is to foster a supportive and open learning environment. Creating a space where they feel comfortable to explore and learn is essential for students' development.

Being recognized with this award is a huge honour and affirmation of my efforts as a preceptor. It means that my commitment to their education and development has made a positive impact, and it reinforces the importance of the work we do in shaping the next generation of pharmacists.”

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Cheyenne Matinnia, MSc Student at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy