In the bustling corridors of healthcare, where every prescription filled is a step towards prevention or healing, there exists a silent yet profound legacy that often goes unnoticed—the inspiration passed down through generations. For one aspiring pharmacist, 21-year-old Tatiana Budhan, the decision to pursue a career in medicine (and/or pharmacy) wasn’t merely a choice; it was a culmination of familial influence, a tribute to the dedication and compassion instilled by her family.
From a young age, she found herself captivated by the world of medicine. Growing up in a household where discussions about health and well-being were commonplace at family dinners, she was exposed to the profound impact pharmacists (and medical professionals) could have on people’s lives. Her relatives embodied the values of empathy and service that define the medical profession.
Tatiana’s passion for the medical field was birthed from her mom’s side of the family, as it is filled with medical personnel. Her grandmother is a retired nurse. Her aunt, a former chief medical technologist, is presently Director, National Public Health Laboratory, in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Her uncle, who lives in Canada, is a pharmacist and usually shares his knowledge with her.
Budhan lives in South Ruimveldt Gardens, with her siblings and parents. She attended St. Jude’s Playgroup, Mae’s School Nursery and Primary, Christ Church Secondary School, where she completed CSEC in 2019, and then The Bishops’ High School, where she did one year of CAPE. Currently, she is in her final year at the University of Guyana Turkeyen Campus, where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy.“
She recounted “when I applied to university, I applied for both medical technology and pharmacy, and I got into both. However, my interest was more drawn towards pharmacy. I love the idea of being able to dispense prescriptions to help people. I love that I have started a journey in such a beautiful profession, and I am excited to see what more I’ll learn when I go into the working world.”
Tatiana said with each passing day, she feels the pull of her family’s legacy grow stronger. She has immersed herself in her studies, driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Every lesson learned, every challenge overcome was a testament to the values her family had instilled in her – integrity, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.
Further Budhan added, “Is it a hard programme? Most definitely, when people ask me how it’s been going, I am brutally honest. The constant breakdowns, the all-nighters that contributed to sleepless nights and still having to function for classes are really something. It has its challenges, but it’s how you face and handle them. I’ve faced many challenges over the years, but I think one of my hardest years, or a year that I never wish to live over, is 2022. This was the year I was hit with so much from the beginning, my mental health pretty much deteriorated, and I felt like I just hit rock bottom. I considered just giving up on everything and even dropping out.”
However, for Budhan, having a support system really made a difference; this includes her amazing parents, her siblings, and friends.
She continued by saying, “They always told me that no matter what, my health came first, and it was alright to take a break and slow down. Their constant love and support really helped me through everything, and for that, I am so grateful for them. I always underestimate myself but as I entered the last lap of my degree I can honestly say I am truly grateful and proud of how far I’ve come.”
For Tatiana, being a woman in science is truly incredible; it means not only pursuing your passion, but being willing to give it your all to make it in the future. Knowing that one day she’ll be able to help people is truly a dream, and she cannot wait to see what her future holds. Although, she has faced many challenges throughout the years she is determined to stay positive and continue pushing until she makes it to the finish line.
Tatiana considers herself “an ambivert, as I am outgoing, and I love meeting new people which makes me a social butterfly but then I also have my moments where I rather relax in the comfort of my home and have a quiet day. I am a lover for horror movies. I enjoy going on out of town trips with friends around Guyana as I consider the different scenery to be therapeutic for me.”
When asked for advice for young girls, the budding pharmacist, said, “My advice to young girls would be to always believe in yourself and never let anyone hold you back or tell you what you can and can’t achieve. Science is for everyone, and you have the power to make a difference.”
“You can be anything you want to be; it is your life and not anyone else’s. There is no such thing as a stupid career. You are doing something you are passionate about and love, and you should surround yourself with people who support your decisions and dreams. Always put your health first, life still goes on, but you have to make sure you’re healthy and well. Take your breaks and trust me, get your sleep,” is Tatiana’s advice for youths.
Tatiana’s future plans and aspirations are to one day be an inspirational pharmacist. She would also pursue a master’s degree or her PharmD. However, for now, she wants to work first and gain more experience and knowledge before continuing her studies.
