Case studies: Diploma pharmacist: Jade

Jade gained a degree in pharmacy from Nottingham School of Pharmacy in 2008. She registered with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain as a Pharmacist in 2009. She now works in a large Midlands hospital and is currently working towards a Diploma in Medicines Management.

I was interested in a career in pharmacy initially because I wanted to work in the healthcare profession. Hospital pharmacy attracted me because of the diversity of the job compared to community pharmacy. I had experience of community pharmacy from previous part-time jobs but wanted to be on the front line, involved with prescribing and part of a bigger team.

I found the position advertised through NHS Jobs . Although I had previous experience of working in community pharmacy, I had no experience of hospital pharmacy. I don't think it is necessary as far as getting a job goes. I gained a lot of relevant knowledge and skills from my degree, for example background scientific knowledge, clinical knowledge, teamworking skills, presentation skills and time management skills.

I am currently on rotation, at present in the renal ward, and will cover other areas such as oncology, surgery and medicines information.

I can perform various duties on a typical day, for example dispensing medicines, ordering medicines, taking drug histories, checking doctors' prescribing and chatting to patients to see how their treatment is going.

I like the fact there is never a dull moment and I am always busy and meet lots of people. I like working with the doctors and nurses and also enjoy the social side that goes with working at a large hospital.

There is not much I don't like about my job. Being on call can be hard, but I like the challenge and having to think on my feet - it can be quite exciting.

My career aim is to finish my diploma and then become a specialist pharmacist, but I haven't decided in which field yet.