Graduate Spotlight: McCurry’s journey from marine biology to pharmacy
Kim Chaudoin |
Every student has a unique story to tell. But few have followed the pathway that led Kyle McCurry to Lipscomb University and soon to the completion of a Doctorate of Pharmacy in May.
McCurry's journey from a marine biology undergraduate to a standout student pharmacist embodies his spirit of determination.
Born and raised in McMinnville, Tennessee, McCurry made his way to Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in marine biology in 2013.
"Yes, you read that correctly,” McCurry quips. “You can, in fact, obtain a degree in marine biology in a landlocked state."
Despite his initial career path, McCurry found his calling in the field of pharmacy. He has worked in a pharmacy setting for about 14 years even during his undergraduate studies. While working in a local hospital as a pharmacy technician he crossed paths with Jonathon Pouliot, associate professor in Lipscomb’s College of Pharmacy.
Pouliot recognized McCurry’s skill as a technician and encouraged him to consider pursuing a career as a pharmacist. Though flattered, McCurry, who was 28 at the time, had just purchased a house and had aspirations to explore the world.
“Going back to school was truly the last thought on my mind. I politely declined the initial invitation,” he recalls.
But Pouliot’s encouragement sparked a curiosity in McCurry. Throughout his years of working in the local hospital system, he found himself surrounded by student pharmacists from various institutions throughout Tennessee. However, he noticed that those from Lipscomb were “consistently a step or two above everyone else.” He soon began to reconsider his professional journey.
During my time in the College of Pharmacy, the experiences and knowledge gained have been invaluable and have helped shape me into a well-rounded professional who is ready to embark on a fulfilling career as a pharmacist. — Kyle McCurry
“A few weeks after that conversation, I found myself realizing Dr. Pouliot may be onto something,” says McCurry. “The next week I was on Lipscomb’s campus speaking with the director of admissions.”
“In addition to the wonderful interactions I had with Dr. Pouliot and his fourth-year student pharmacists, I vividly recall standing on the steps of Burton (Health Sciences Center) after my interview and realizing that this was the place I was going to call home for the next four years,” he says. “For me, it was one of the easiest choices I have ever made.”
Throughout his education, he has been deeply involved in a variety of activities and leadership roles within the College of Pharmacy, highlighting his dedication to his profession and community. These include serving as the president of the Lipscomb University Student Pharmacist Government Association; vice president of the Lipscomb chapters of APhA (policy) and ASHP, Phi Delta Chi worthy vice counselor, new student orientation spirit team leader and a member of Lipscomb’s well-being committee. He has earned a number of awards and recognitions including Lipscomb’s E.L. & Opal Memorial Pharmacy Scholarship, Dr. Kim Barker Memorial Pharmacy Scholarship and Trustee Scholarship; and APhA Back the PAC Challenge AAA division winner and AIHC student award for interprofessional collaborative practice. McCurry has also participated in the APhA vaccine event, ASHP clinical skills competition, Pharmacy Day on the Hill, the Phi Delta Chi Spelling Bee Book Drive and the APhA Vote & Vax to name a few.
His decision to attend Lipscomb has been transformative.
“During my time in the College of Pharmacy, the experiences and knowledge gained have been invaluable and have helped shape me into a well-rounded professional who is ready to embark on a fulfilling career as a pharmacist,” McCurry says.
McCurry credits the pharmacy faculty for their profound impact on his education and professional growth. "I have been incredibly impressed with the level of talent within our own faculty. They truly are the best of the best," he says, expressing gratitude for the mentorship and knowledge imparted by his professors.
For those contemplating a return to school or a career change, McCurry offers words of encouragement, drawing from his own experience as a "non-traditional" student. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief and perseverance, quoting, "You are enough. You are so enough. It is unbelievable how enough you are," a mantra that has guided him through moments of doubt by reminding himself of his worth and capability.
Following graduation on May 4, McCurry looks forward to starting a PGY-1 residency program at The University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont, with plans to specialize in Emergency Medicine.