Over the past year, I have had the privilege of serving as Chair of the Texas Pharmacy Association–Academy of Student Pharmacists, a role that has challenged and shaped me in ways I never expected.

When I first stepped into this position, I was nervous. Advocacy and leadership at this level felt big, and unlike any role I've had before. But what followed was a year of growth and purpose. During the House of Delegates session at 2025 TPA Conference and Expo, my Chair-Elect and I presented our first two resolutions on behalf of student pharmacists across Texas. Rather than being immediately adopted, our proposals were met with thoughtful questions and constructive dialogue. In that moment, I realized the true weight of advocacy: the words we choose matter, preparation matters, and being ready to defend our positions is essential when representing our profession.

Instead of feeling discouraged, we leaned in. We listened more closely during TPA committee meetings and conversations, and we invited guest speakers to teach our student academy how to write, refine, and defend resolutions. We then challenged each pharmacy campus in Texas to develop its own resolution and present it during a mock House of Delegates session. This initiative is hoping to bring student pharmacists together across the state, giving them a platform to share ideas, build confidence, and prepare to advocate for meaningful change. It is also setting the stage for a stronger, more unified return to the House of Delegates in 2026.

What began as uncertainty transformed into inspiration. I've seen firsthand how many students are eager to be involved in advocacy and shape the future of pharmacy, and that sometimes they just need an invitation and the right platform to do so.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: impact doesn’t always start with confidence; it starts with showing up. When we create space for others to speak, listen with intention, and invest in preparation, we empower voices that might otherwise go unheard. Advocacy is not reserved for a select few; it belongs to all of us. And when we choose to step forward, even nervously, we realize that each of us has the ability to influence our profession and make a lasting difference.