When UW Says Comprehensive Student Support, Here’s What That Really Means

By Alyssa Pankau, PharmD Class of 2027

When I first started pharmacy school at UW–Madison, I knew it would be challenging, but I didn’t realize just how important the people and support systems around me would be in helping me grow, not just as a student, but as a person. I expected rigorous classes and long nights of studying, but what I didn’t expect was how much support I would receive along the way. The relationships I’ve formed and the guidance I’ve been given have shaped who I am today and the kind of pharmacist I hope to become. 

Caring advisors who are there for you

Over the past two years, there have been times when I wasn’t sure how to handle a problem or what my next step should be. When those issues came up, the Office of Student Services at the School of Pharmacy was always there for me. This office houses our academic advisors and dedicated administrative staff who are focused on supporting pharmacy students through their academic journey. I’ve gone to them with all kinds of questions—whether it was about scheduling, deadlines, university policies, or personal concerns. If they didn’t have the answer themselves, they made sure to connect me with the right person who did.

What stood out to me the most was how open and responsive they were. They always got back to me quickly and treated my concerns with care and understanding. Knowing that there was always someone to reach out to, even when I didn’t have all the answers myself, was incredibly reassuring—especially in such a demanding program. 

From challenge to triumph

One of the most difficult times in my education came at the beginning of my second year of pharmacy school. I had been in an accident that made it hard for me to function at the same pace I was used to. I suddenly found myself in a position where I couldn’t manage school the way I normally would, and I wasn’t sure how I was going to get through the semester. My academic advisor was the first person I contacted.

They immediately stepped in—not only with compassion but with a clear plan. They helped me get in touch with the university’s support services, guided me through the accommodations process, and offered specific recommendations tailored to our PharmD program. But more than that, they listened. They checked in on how I was doing, not just academically, but emotionally too. That kind of support made a world of difference. I felt seen, heard, and most importantly—not alone. With their help, I was able to adapt and had one of my most successful academic years, even in the face of that unexpected challenge. 

Faculty who help you grow in and outside the classroom

Another incredible resource that has shaped my pharmacy school experience is the faculty. The professors here are not only experts in their fields, but they are approachable, supportive, and genuinely invested in their students’ success. Whenever I didn’t understand something, I never felt afraid to ask for help. Professors were always willing to meet with me, sometimes multiple times, to go over material, explain it in a different way, or just talk through it until it finally clicked. These one-on-one conversations helped me build both my knowledge and my confidence. I can honestly say that some of the most impactful learning moments I’ve had happened during these informal office meetings. It wasn’t just about memorizing information—it was about understanding it, applying it, and growing through it. These professors taught me how to think like a pharmacist. 

Learning from supportive peers

A unique support that UW–Madison offers is the peer-led study groups, which have been incredibly helpful, especially for our most difficult classes. These sessions are led by students who performed well in the course the previous year and offer a supportive space to review content, ask questions, and go over practice problems. What made them so valuable was that these leaders understood what we were going through—they were in our exact position just one year before. The advice they gave on how to study, what to focus on, and how to manage our time was practical and encouraging. It created a judgment-free zone where I could ask the “dumb” questions without fear and walk away with a stronger grasp of the material. 

Looking back, it’s the people who have made all the difference—the advisors who advocate for you, the professors who believe in you, and the peers who support you. At UW–Madison, the support goes far beyond academics. It’s a community that’s committed to your growth as a future pharmacist and as a person. They’re there to help when you’re struggling and to celebrate when you succeed. That’s what makes this place so special to me, and why I’m proud to be a part of this program.