Early Entry Pharmacy Students Bring Talent and Diverse Experiences to Ole Miss

For more than 30 years, the School of Pharmacy has been a national leader in early assurance pharmacy education. The Early Entry Pharmacy Program reserves seats in the professional PharmD program for highly qualified high school seniors, contingent upon successful completion of two years of pre-pharmacy coursework.

By securing admission early, students can focus on their academic and professional development without undergoing the competitive admission process traditionally required during the sophomore year of college.

Early-entry students enjoy far more than simply early acceptance into the professional pharmacy program. They receive the benefits of the Early Entry Experience, which is unlike any other on campus. It features specialized tutoring and mentoring, professional advancement opportunities, dedicated academic advising and support, and the chance to be part of the Living-Learning Community.

The Early Entry pathway allows students to begin their School of Pharmacy experience immediately after high school, creating opportunities to connect with faculty, alumni and peers from the outset of their educational journey.

“A highlight of the summer has been meeting our newest Early Entry Pharmacy students during orientation. It’s exciting to see their enthusiasm for the profession and the relationships they’re already beginning to build,” said Kristen Pate, the school’s associate dean for student affairs and clinical associate professor of pharmacy practice. “We can’t wait to officially welcome this outstanding group into the School of Pharmacy family in August and support them throughout their journey.”

The incoming class includes students with a wide range of interests, experiences and aspirations. Four members of this fall’s early entry cohort shared what inspired them to choose Ole Miss pharmacy.

Finding a Bigger World of Pharmacy

Jasie Rae Flora, who lives just outside Starkville in Maben, first visited campus earlier this year and returned in June for orientation. The experience helped her discover the breadth of opportunities available within the profession.

“Everything was different from what I imagined, but I loved touring the pharmacy building and learning about courses and schedules,” Flora said. “I got so many different ideas about professional options, and I’m excited about starting something new.”

Choosing Community and Connection

For Theo Hadskey, a Louisiana native who considered several programs around the country, the deciding factor was the welcoming atmosphere he experienced at Ole Miss.

“Out of all the schools I visited, Ole Miss was by far the best experience I had. They treat students like family and there’s such a nice atmosphere,” Hadskey said. “In the end, the sense of community was the deciding factor for me.”

Balancing Athletics and Academics

Montana native Kamdyn McFarland is preparing for a unique college experience as both an Early Entry pharmacy student and a member of the Ole Miss rifle team. She will complete orientation in July before moving to Mississippi in August.

“I met some alumni and they told me great things about the School of Pharmacy, and after I visited campus I fell in love with Ole Miss,” McFarland said. “I can’t wait to be on the rifle team and study pharmacy in that fantastic environment.”

Fulfilling a Lifetime Dream

Growing up in Central Mississippi, Lucy Jones made regular trips to Ole Miss for sporting events and to explore the charms of Oxford. Now the Jackson Academy graduate will forge her own path here, and she’s excited about joining the program.

“I considered other universities, but when I came back to visit Oxford, that sealed it. I knew this is where I’m supposed to be,” Jones said. “I’ve loved Ole Miss all my life, and now that I’m going to be a student there, I couldn’t be more excited about it.”

An Exciting Beginning

While their paths to Ole Miss differ, members of this year’s Early Entry class share a common goal: becoming part of a supportive community dedicated to preparing future pharmacy leaders and improving patient care. As they arrive on campus this fall, they bring impressive accomplishments, unique perspectives and excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead.

“We are excited to welcome this outstanding group of students to the School of Pharmacy and the Early Entry Program,” said Donna Strum, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “These students have chosen to begin their professional journey with us, and we look forward to helping them develop the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to become future leaders in pharmacy and health care. Their enthusiasm, accomplishments and diverse backgrounds already reflect the strength of this incoming class.”