The job placement Selkirk was able to arrange for me offered a great introduction to my dream department and allowed me to display my skills.
A local to Nelson and a high school graduate of LV Rogers, Halley was able to continue working while furthering her education in the mixed-format Pharmacy Technician program.
"I loved the aspect of a mixed online and in-person format. It gave me the flexibility to still work while in school, but also get the in-class experience as well. I enjoyed getting the hands-on training and officially meeting the teachers we connected with during our online theory work."
The ability to stay in the Nelson area while getting industry-standard education was crucial to Halley's experience.
"The best part about studying at Selkirk was the flexibility with the course format, as well as being able to stay in our beautiful Kootenay region. When I decided to go back to school the administration was very helpful in guiding me to a program that would work best with my lifestyle and long-term life goals."
Online studies can be daunting for some students, especially when returning to school after an extended period of time. However, the Selkirk College experience
"The instructors created a team environment even for the online portion of the program. I felt very supported and my questions were answered quickly with additional resources. The program was very up to date with their course work and my learnings transferred nicely to real-life practice."
The Pharmacy Technician Program integrates workforce professionals into student's learning.
"I enjoyed how the program included current praciticing technicians, as they had a lot of real-life tips to ensure we preformed optimally when we went to our placements."
Students who graduate from the program often find themselves working locally, or continuing their education.
"I currently work as a Registered Pharmacy Technician at the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital. The skills I learned in the theory work of the online portion has enabled me to recognize the vast number of medications, how they work and when they should be perscribed. The in-person portion was helpful in showing me how to compound IV mixes as well as topicals. I am constantly learning through continued education—this has kept me engaged and excited for the future of this ever-evolving career."
Halley Whittleton, Pharmacy Technician Program, 2021