Navya Garimella: Residency Is Not Just About What You Achieve; It’s About Who You Become
By: Navya Garimella, PharmD, PGY1 Managed Care Residen
My residency year has been one of the most challenging yet incredibly rewarding experiences of my life. Over the past year, I had the opportunity to rotate through various areas within a health plan including clinical programs, client consulting, prior authorization reviews, formulary development, etc. Each rotation & project brought new challenges, perspectives, and learning opportunities that pushed me to continuously grow both professionally and personally.
Beyond the clinical and operational experiences, I was able to build skills that extend far beyond technical knowledge. I was provided with meaningful opportunities to develop my confidence in public speaking, through presentations, provider outreach, or teaching. I also gained valuable experience in mentoring and precepting students, which strengthened my ability to communicate, guide, and support others in their own learning journeys.
What made this experience even more impactful was how interconnected everything felt. Each rotation, project, and interaction were built on one another and reinforced the importance of collaboration and adaptability. I learned just as much from my colleagues, preceptors, and students as I did from the work itself. These shared experiences helped shape my perspective and reminded me that growth is never done in isolation.
AMCP was an incredibly meaningful part of my residency. It provided me with the opportunity to connect with inspiring professionals, learn about the diverse paths within pharmacy, and gain a deeper appreciation for how broad and dynamic our field truly is. Hearing about the different journeys people have taken really put into perspective that there is no single path in pharmacy. It encouraged me not to limit myself to one area, but instead to stay curious, continue learning, and remain open to evolving my career over time.
Looking back, this year challenged me in ways I never expected, but it also showed me that I am capable of far more than I initially thought. It allowed me to gain exposure to experiences that became the most valuable learning experience. The skills, confidence, and mindset I have developed during this residency are things I will carry with me throughout my entire professional journey.
Advice for student pharmacists:
I strongly encourage approaching residency with a true learning mindset. Be open to every opportunity, even those that feel unfamiliar or intimidating. Residency is a unique time to explore diverse areas of pharmacy practice and build a broad skill set that will set the foundation for your career.
Most importantly, don’t shy away from challenging situations. Some of the most meaningful growth comes from moments where you feel uncertain or challenged. Trust that putting yourself in these situations will not only expand your capabilities but also reinforce the realization that you are capable of far more than you initially thought. Residency is not just about what you achieve; it’s also about who you become in the process.