Alumna Teri Holcomb, 2023 Pharm.D., is a proud first-generation college graduate. She attributes her success in pharmacy school to her military experience and deep love for family and believes her background enriches her ability to serve as a compassionate health care provider.
In celebration of National First-Generation College Student Week, Teri shared some of her journey with us and her advice for future first-gen students.
First, tell us a bit about yourself:
I am an Air Force veteran from Augusta, GA. My husband is active-duty Air Force stationed at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, SC. We have a 5-year-old little girl named Lanie. I am a pharmacy manager with McLeod Health. In my free time I love to go shopping with Lanie, have movie nights, and read.
Where did you draw inspiration for attending college and why did you choose USC?
I drew my inspiration for attending college mostly out of the need to be competitive with my brothers, who both made careers out of their military service. Only one of my parents finished high school and I realized I would be the first person in my family to pursue higher education. I earned a G.I. Bill from my time in service and just went for it! I chose USC because of the variety of programs and resources for veterans, access to a physical campus, NAPLEX/MPJE pass rates, and job placement at graduation.
What sparked your interest in pursuing pharmacy?
My father and one of my brothers had almost identical spine surgeries 25 years apart that resulted in them being on almost identical pain management strategies. I was fascinated by how differently they responded to being on the same things. I couldn’t wrap my head around how something so tiny could so drastically change peoples lives and had to know more.
What kept you motivated and helped you succeed during your academic journey?
Things that kept me motivated throughout my academic journey were thinking of the future I would be securing for my family if I succeeded, being someone that my daughter could look up to and be proud of, and establishing a career for myself that I achieved on my own. Having a type-A personality was helpful too!
How does being first-generation impact your perspective as a health care provider?
As a first generation graduate, I understand that things like health or dental insurance and higher education are a privilege. I understand it takes years of hard work and dedication to achieve lasting goals. Working in a disadvantaged rural population, I have the pleasure of serving some of the most vulnerable patients that remind me of the people who raised me. I’ll never take that full-circle moment for granted!
Do you have advice for current/future first-gen students looking for support along their journey?
My advice for current or future first-generation students would be to take ownership of your hard work and wear it proudly! You’re carving a path for your children and grandchildren that they may have never realized was possible for them, and that alone is simply amazing!
You’re carving a path for your children and grandchildren that they may have never realized was possible for them, and that alone is simply amazing!
Topics: Student Experience, Pharm.D. Program, Alumni Programs