School of Pharmacy News & Media Center
The University of Mississippi

Admissions counselors recruit top students in region

Posted on: February 24th, 2015 by enparson
September 25, 2014
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Lauren Rowlett (left) and Megan Upchurch

Since joining the staff at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, Megan Upchurch and Lauren Rowlett have enjoyed touting the many opportunities that a pharmacy degree from Ole Miss offers. The two new regional admissions counselors have been revamping recruitment efforts and meeting with prospective students since July.

Upchurch, a Brandon native, earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education and a master’s degree in higher education from UM. Rowlett, originally from Longwood, Florida, obtained bachelor’s degrees in French and music, as well as a doctorate in music from Florida State University.

Pharmacy Matters interviewed Upchurch and Rowlett about their new positions.

Q: What are your responsibilities as a recruiter for the School of Pharmacy?

Upchurch: My primary responsibilities are working with students who are interested in the Early-Entry program. I visit high schools and college fairs to meet with students who are interested in the pharmacy programs here at the University of Mississippi. This year I will also be working with School of Pharmacy ambassadors to develop programming and put on events for incoming students and their families.

Rowlett: I work with transfer and regular-entry students. That includes community college, transfer students and pre-pharmacy students applying for the professional program.

Q: What is your favorite part of interacting with prospective students?

Upchurch: It is so much fun to see students experience the magic of Ole Miss for the first time! As students begin the transition to life on campus and college classes, they look to me for guidance. There is something special about being on campus here at the University of Mississippi.

Rowlett: I love introducing prospective students to all the different career options available with a Pharm.D. from the University of Mississippi.

Q: Do you have any upcoming recruitment trips? What areas will you visit?

Upchurch: Throughout September and October, I will be in Huntsville, Atlanta, Birmingham, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Memphis and the Jackson area.

Rowlett: This semester I’m visiting nearly every community college and four-year institution in Mississippi, as well as taking trips to Louisiana, Alabama and Missouri.

Q: What advice do you have for a student who wants to attend the School of Pharmacy?

Upchurch: Be prepared to work hard and get involved! The friendships you form over the next seven years here will last you a lifetime. Take advantage of the unique opportunities you have to build relationships with your peers, grow professionally, and serve our campus and community.

Rowlett: Plan ahead! The course requirements vary for different pharmacy schools, so it’s especially important that transfer students know all the course prerequisites so they don’t end up a year behind.

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