Superheroic: A Blog for Moms with a Pharmacy Twist

Career and Mom Talk: Meet Jennifer Gershman!

Hello RxMoms! I was very honored to interview Jennifer Gershman, who is a member of our group. Read on to hear her interesting career journey. Connect with Jennifer! -Brooke

Know a pharmacy mom who I should interview next? Email me: [email protected]

Tell us where you graduated from and where you worked right after graduation?

I graduated from Nova Southeastern University College of Pharmacy (NSUCOP) in South Florida and continued on to complete a 2 year drug information residency. Teaching and research became a passion of mine so I decided to pursue academia, and I enjoyed my experience so much at NSUCOP that I stayed on as an Assistant Professor. My role included managing the drug information center, teaching, precepting, and conducting research.

Tell us about your current role and what led you here?

I became a stay-at-home Mom almost 6 years ago and have loved it! Staying connected with the profession has always been important to me, so I started contacting pharmacy magazines and CE companies and have been a freelance medical writer for almost 6 years. I love the flexibility of medical writing and the opportunity to work from home. Currently, I write articles for Pharmacy Times and Drug Topics and have also developed home study pharmacy CE programs and served as a medical editor for a patient education company. I always enjoy educating pharmacists with the most up-to-date drug information that can be used in any practice setting.

What advice would you give other pharmacist moms who are looking to make a big career change?

Definitely create a free LinkedIn profile as many career opportunities are posted there, and it enables you to network with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals. Medical writing opportunities are not always posted so start contacting magazines and CE companies, as many are always looking for contributors. This is a great way to get your foot in the door and possibly find a full-time medical writing position.

If a pharmacist was interested in this type of career, what kind of skills/training would they need?

Anyone with a passion for writing in any practice setting can get involved with medical writing. Start developing a writing sample to send with your CV when you are applying for positions.

What is your favorite topic to write about?

Immunizations, disease state management, new drug approvals, medication safety, and legal and regulatory issues are some of my favorite topics to write about.

Tell us about your kids – ages, activities, anything you want to share.

My son is 5 years old and he loves playing many sports including swimming, baseball, basketball, and golf. I am so proud of him for being such a caring and kind person and love the time we spend together. He has just started Kindergarten virtually, so we are embarking on this new and exciting journey together to make this a great year!

What was the best piece of advice you received from another working mom?

It’s always important to take time for yourself each day, whether it’s reading a book, exercising, or watching your favorite TV show. I enjoy doing Zumba, reading, and watching reruns of the show Friends to relax.

Where can we connect with you?

Please feel free to connect with me at [email protected], on LinkedIn or Twitter @jgershman2, and I would be happy to chat!