Meet Bridget Cleary
We recently met up with Bridget Cleary, the newest member of PSWA’s Engagement and Communication Sub-committee, to find out a bit more about her and her journey to pharmacy.
Tell us about your Pharmacy journey so far?
I’m currently a Master of Pharmacy student, with plans to begin my internship year in 2025. My journey in the pharmacy field so far has been incredibly rewarding, with experience as a pharmacy assistant at Mount Hawthorn Community Pharmacy and Slade Pharmacy at St John of God Murdoch.
What led you to a career in Pharmacy?
For the past 10 years, I’ve been a musician, primarily playing the saxophone, and have had the privilege of performing around the world. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it brought all my touring and gigs to a halt, which gave me the opportunity to re-evaluate my goals. Originally, I started studying Animal Science at Murdoch University with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian. However, I soon became fascinated by the medications used to treat animals. One day, while discussing my studies with my sister, she said, "You know there’s a whole career focused on medications, right?" And that’s how I found my way into pharmacy.
What other jobs have you held?
Before venturing into pharmacy, I worked extensively in the arts, where I embraced a variety of exciting and fulfilling roles. The arts industry doesn’t allow you to focus on just one thing, so I’ve had the chance to be a touring, recording, and teaching musician; sit on multiple boards and committees; work as an operations coordinator for a not-for-profit arts organisation; and even serve as a radio presenter at a local station.
What challenges have you faced as a pharmacy student?
The most challenging aspect of being a student, for me, isn’t necessarily the volume of content or the challenge of juggling multiple jobs alongside university commitments (though I’ve certainly had my fair share of stressful moments). The real challenge is staying present in the learning process and developing my understanding without constantly comparing myself to others.
What’s something you’re proud of?
I’m deeply passionate about the diverse and exciting career pathways in pharmacy and the incredible people working in this field. This passion led me to start the Australian Pharmacy Careers podcast—an outlet for me to talk to others about their career journeys. I believe it’s especially valuable for students and early-career professionals to hear different perspectives and learn from those who have navigated unique paths in this industry.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, I dreamed of becoming a singer and traveling to crisis zones to help the sick as a healthcare professional. While I may not have pursued that exact dream, I’ve come as close as I could—though, as anyone who’s ever heard me sing can attest, my musical talents are best left to playing the saxophone, and I should never be given a microphone!