Hometown: New Rochelle, NY
Name of Undergraduate Institution: Virginia State University
Major(s)/Minor(s) in College: Biochemistry Major
Name of Pharmacy School(s): Howard University College of Pharmacy / Touro College of Pharmacy
Favorite Quote: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” – Psalm 91
Contact Info: Ludovick.Youmbi@gmail.com
Where are you currently at in your career path and why did you decide to pursue this career path?
I currently own a pharmacy in the Bronx, NY. I enjoy having a personal relationship with patients – not easy to develop in a chain pharmacy – and I grew up watching my Mom helping patients in her pharmacy.
If you could go back and have a chat with your naïve college freshman self, what would you tell him?
Enjoy and explore every opportunity: industry, hospital, retail, institutional, research. Challenge yourself. Do not miss mid-years and network, network and network. Be curious. Ask yourself, where do you want to be in 4 years?
What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a similar path as yours?
Find a niche (i.e. Nuclear, infusion), find good partners, develop relationships with MDs and open a savings account. If possible, buy a pharmacy from a senior pharmacist who is retiring.
What is a major challenge you have had to overcome and how did you do so?
Getting insurance credentials. We read insurance contracts carefully and we work as a team.
What was your favorite thing about your pharmacy school?
My professors were accessible.
Do you have another professional degree? If so, how has it impacted you?
I don’t have one, but I would say that my previous experiences (4 years in retail and independent pharmacy business) did get me some inside games. Nonetheless, an MPH or MBA can make you more marketable.
What advice would you give to someone getting ready to start their application process to pharmacy schools?
Remember schools are also looking for something you can bring to them too. Make sure you’re a well-rounded candidate. Be curious and inquire on what the schools stand for.
Did you take some time off before you started pharmacy school? If so, what did you do during that time?
No, but if I could have, I would have traveled.
Do you have any passions outside of school? If so, what are they?
Soccer.
What do you like to do for fun?
Soccer.
What do you feel was the most challenging part of pharmacy school? The easiest part?
Hardest part: Long back-to back sleepless nights.
Easiest part: receiving the diploma.
Do you have any advice for pharmacy students who are also in romantic relationships?
Don’t forget what you sign up for. Be with someone who will understand that as well.
What did you do during the summer before you started pharmacy school?
I worked and saved money.
What advice do you have for those who are getting through the stressful nature of pharmacy school?
Think about how Jesus beat death at the Cross at Cavalry and have a positive attitude. Remember, you’re also being prepared for what you can eventually face in your future professional career.
What are some everyday activities that you do at your job?
Counseling patients on how to take their medications, distributing meals.
What are some of the activities that you are involved in as a Pharmacist?
APhA (American Pharmacists Association) and PSSNY (Pharmacists Society of the State of New York). We went to Albany, the capital of New York, to defend the insurance reimbursement rates for independent pharmacists.
Who are some of your favorite musicians? Favorite books? Shows? Movies?
Musicians: Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra
Books: The Bible, Confessions of an Economic Hit Man
Movie: God's Not Dead
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences and advice with us Uncle Ludovick! Your perspective as an owner of a pharmacy is a very important one and a great one to learn from. You are very much appreciated! I wish you the best of luck as you continue to excel in every endeavor that you pursue!
Health Career Spotlights Home Page
Posted on January 27th, 2018