Next step: PGY1 residency in acute care at ECU Health Medical Center, Greenville, N.C.
Brianna Lu has long been fascinated by the intersection of chemistry and biology. Her career aspiration evolved over time, from forensic scientist in middle school, to drug researcher in high school, to her current path as a clinical pharmacist on the front lines of patient care.
A 2025 graduate of the Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy, Brianna is set to begin a PGY1 residency in acute care at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina.
While in pharmacy school, she interned at Mansfield Hospital where she witnessed the role that pharmacists can play in emergency response events. That experience solidified her career direction.
“I love the fast-paced, hands-on environment, which is something I never thought I’d be interested in,” she said. “But working alongside a pharmacist who got to make those critical decisions for patients, some whose lives were hanging in the balance, made me realize the impact you can make.”
Originally from Huntsville, Ala., Brianna chose 91ֱfor its 0-6 direct entry pharmacy program.
“Becoming a pharmacy student on day one appealed to me,” she said.
One of her most meaningful experiences was working on the Pharmacy and Wellness Review newsletter under the mentorship of Dr. Karen Kier, BSPh ’84, professor of pharmacy practice. Starting as a writer and rising to editor-in-chief, Brianna came to appreciate the importance of health communication and education—an area she hopes to continue contributing to in the future.
“This experience and Dr. Kier’s mentorship were just incredible,” she said. “It helped me become a well-rounded pharmacist.”
As she looks ahead to her residency, Brianna admits it’s hard to leave 91ֱbehind.
“I am going to miss seeing my professors every day,” she said. “This last year being on clinical rotation and not seeing them at all was scary, but it also made me realize that they have equipped me with the knowledge I need to succeed in the real world.”