Brianna Holtmeier

Brianna Holtmeier, ’18, graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. She is currently enrolled in pharmacy school at The University of Minnesota. We asked Brianna a few questions about her Concordia experience and how it has propelled her on the path to becoming a pharmacist. Read her Q and A below.

Q: Did you participate in research opportunities while you were on campus?

A: Yes, I did! Research is unlike any other class. There is no answer key and the professor is learning along with you. It taught me to think outside the box, patience, and how to dive into other research articles for new directions.

Q: You were a participant at the Scholars at the Capitol event. Can you tell me what the experience was like? How do you draw from this experience in your current work and education?

A: The Scholars at the Capitol event was a great opportunity where my research team and I presented our semester’s research to fellow students from other colleges, faculty, and politicians. It was a teaching experience on how to present research to different audiences of varying scientific background so everyone could understand. Listening to students from other universities present was interesting because we could compare our research with theirs.

Q: Speaking of drawing from experience, have you referred to any piece of your Concordia education during the pharmacy school application process? In your work? Explain.

A: The pharmacy schools I interviewed at really loved hearing about my research experience at CSP because it helped diversify my application. Research was also a topic that I could talk about for hours and showcase my passion for the research field during my interview.

Q: How has Concordia prepared you for your next steps?
A: The heavy class loads I took throughout my undergrad has helped prepare me for the rigor of grad school. All of the prerequisite classes that I took at CSP also have given me a solid foundation in science that I can continue to build upon in pharmacy school.