Student Profile: Bang Lam
By Himself
My name is Bang Lam, and I’m originally from Vietnam. Shortly after graduating high school, I came to America on my own and joined American University of Health Sciences (AUHS) at age 18. Beginning the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSPS) program in 2023.
Back in Vietnam, I was always fascinated in science and the healthcare industry. I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would give me a chance for me to help people in a meaningful way. When I learned about the BSPS program, it felt like the perfect foundation to a path for me to achieve what I want; it combined my interest in chemistry and biology with relations to medicine and patient care.
How did you feel when you were approved to transition into the PharmD program after just 1.5 years in BSPS, compared to the usual 3.3 years?
I was honestly shocked and incredibly grateful. Especially to by professors who have been crucial for me to achieve what I achieved granting me opportunities and guidance for me to reach where I am. Being able to move into the PharmD program so early felt like a big milestone not just academically, but personally as well. It showed me that hard work really pays off, and I was proud to be able to represent international students who come to the U.S. give their best and pursue their dreams.
Who or what inspired you to pursue a career as a Doctor of Pharmacy?
It was really a combination of my upbringing and passion. My mom and dad, who always emphasized the importance of education, and giving back to the community and people you are surrounded by in your own way. Being surrounded in a healthcare workplace environment when I was a kid because my mother worked with a clinic made me realized how valuable pharmacists are not just for dispensing medications, but for educating and supporting patients mentally and physically, this also align with my passion for chemistry and biology. That’s when I knew this was the path for me.
My plan is to complete the PharmD program and then work in the U.S. during my one-year OPT. After that, I hope to continue my work in America to gain more experience in a clinical or retail pharmacy setting here. My goal is to continue building my career in the U.S. as a Doctor of Pharmacy, where I can contribute to patient care and improve my skill. I’m also up for returning to Vietnam to contribute to healthcare back home, but for now, I’m focused on growing professionally in the U.S and see where the future goes.
What advice would you give to younger students, especially those high school students from Vietnam, who are considering the health sciences major or BSPS– PharmD pathway at AUHS?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s okay to feel uncertain at first as anyone would but it is important that you stay focused and committed to your goals investing everything you got into your studies. Ask for help when you need it, and surround yourself with supportive people whom you know you may spend a lot of time with in the future like your classmate and professors, especially in the environment of AUHS where most people are very supportive and always have your best interest at heart. You’ll grow more than you expect. Other than that, remember to not let yourself get burnt out take good care of yourself physically and mentally ask yourself “where’s your motivation” and when you’re motivated, chase and accomplish your dreams.
This has been a life-changing experience for me learning to be independent in a culture I had never been exposed to, while adjusting to what’s around me and taking care of myself. Balancing all of that with my studies as I pursue my dream hasn’t been easy, but it has helped me grow tremendously. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends, and professors. Their encouragement has meant everything to me, and I’m truly grateful for this journey.
