McWhorter School of Pharmacy is more than 1,600 miles from Puerto Rico, but despite the distance, 31 students from the island are currently working toward their Doctor of Pharmacy. Academic opportunities, faculty engagement and Southern hospitality are among the reasons many of these students have chosen to call Samford home.
In 2015, the pharmacy school’s reputation began to grow in Puerto Rico after Adrian Velez-Domenech, who is now a fourth-year student, attended Bulldog Pharmacy Camp. The annual weeklong event introduces high school juniors, seniors and rising college freshmen to the world of pharmacy through compounding labs, simulation experiences, hands-on demonstrations, and tours of local pharmacies and health care facilities.
Inspired by his exceptional experience, Velez-Domenech returned to his home in Moca, Puerto Rico, and helped spread the word about Samford’s opportunities.
“The idea of moving thousands of miles was initially very stressful. Leaving behind my family and familiar surroundings felt overwhelming,” Velez-Domenech said. “I chose Samford because it offers an excellent academic program and fosters a sense of community and support. From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew this was the right place to grow professionally and as a person.”
At around the same time, the recruitment team identified a gap in opportunities for Puerto Rican students aspiring to study pharmacy. Initial outreach efforts included sending recruitment postcards to interested students. One of these postcards reached Yelitza Nieves Prosper, PharmD ’21, who became McWhorter’s first Puerto Rican graduate. She has paved the way for others, including her husband, Cesar German-Silvestry, PharmD ’22, and 11 students in this fall’s first-year class.
Over the past seven years, more than 40 students from Puerto Rico have become an integral part of the McWhorter family.
“I’m so pleased we made this connection with students in Puerto Rico and that it continues to grow,” said Michael Crouch, dean of McWhorter School of Pharmacy. “The students add so much to our community, and Samford is better because of it.”
Wilmarie Figueroa Rivera, a second-year student, has excelled at McWhorter, serving as a pharmacy camp counselor and student ambassador this past year.
“From the moment I arrived on campus, I was struck by its beautiful blend of historic charm and modern amenities, creating an inviting and conducive atmosphere for learning,” she said. “The faculty here are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely invested in their students’ success, offering invaluable mentorship and personalized support that has greatly enriched my educational journey.”
Rivera appreciates the faith-based learning environment that solidifies her spiritual foundation and creates a sense of belonging. “Beyond the campus, Samford offers numerous opportunities for professional growth, connecting students with resources and networks that have allowed me to expand my horizons and gain practical experience,” she said.
This story was first published in the fall 2024 issue of Seasons magazine.
