Washington state admits only 94 individuals each year to its fully accredited Program, with 97 percent of its graduating students passing the national Board exam to become certified Pharmacists.
Both Layman and Garcia spent time away from interning touring the island and enjoying the tropical weather and island views. “I really appreciate Saipan’s scenery and seemingly untouched environment,” said Garcia, whose favorite hikes were to Forbidden and Bird Islands.
“What’s nice about hiring interns is that they bring a fresh set of eyes, new ideas and innovations to a business that you can’t always find on the web or in trade magazines,” said Ted Parker, Brabu’s owner and manager. “It also allows me to support my profession by putting a few dollars in their pockets. We all know how important that is for students.”
Layman, said the internship allowed him to hone his communication skills with patients, especially those that speak English as a second language. “What is nice about working in small independent pharmacies is that you are able to develop relationships with your patients, care about them, and become more familiar with their illnesses; to provide better care and treatment.”
“You can tell that Ted has that personal touch with his patients,” said Garcia who speaks Filipino and Fookien, a Chinese dialect, as well as English. “I think it is very important to be able to explain how to use medication in a language that is comfortable to your patient.”
Parker concurred emphasizing that his staff are encouraged to learn languages, with nearly 10 languages spoken at Brabu already. “Communication is vital to ensuring proper drug dispensation and use. “
Parker also encourages local students to consider pursuing a career in pharmacy. Since opening its doors just last year Brabu has already trained three local individuals as pharmacy tech interns. “I’m very proud of them, two are now enrolled in pharmacy tech programs on the mainland, and Trina Ito will be enrolling this year online. The only way to bring our young people back to the islands with the skills they need to excel, and help build the local work force, is by supporting them in turn.”
