Student Spotlight: Holden Hendricks
Learn more about doctor of pharmacy and MBA student Holden Hendricks.
For doctor of pharmacy student Holden Hendricks, the opportunity to earn an MBA along with his doctorate was a no-brainer. KU’s dual MBA/Pharm.D. program allows students to earn both degrees and requires only an additional three months in the classroom for current pharmacy students.
“Going into the program with little to no business background was nerve-racking, but with the support from both schools — pharmacy and business — as well as the support from my friends and family, I was ready for the challenge,” Hendricks said.
As he prepares to graduate in August, the dual degree student reflects on his experience.
What has been one of your favorite moments in the MBA program so far?
My favorite moment in the MBA thus far would have to be the orientation day. I was blown away by how nice the facility, faculty and my new cohort were. Everyone there was more than welcoming. This allowed for a great transition into a brand new field with brand new faces.
What has been the biggest challenge?
The biggest challenge for me was adjusting to the learning style. Both the School of Pharmacy and the School of Business have great reputations and are among the top programs in the country. However, their learning styles vary greatly. In pharmacy school, you are primarily working individually constantly studying for quizzes and exams, whereas in business school you are largely working with your cohort to solve problems/cases. I believe both styles can help me grow as individual, and I look forward to using them later on in life.
What are your plans for the future? How do you think the MBA program will impact your career moving forward?
My future entails finishing school and moving out to California where I will get licensed as a pharmacist and start a career with Rite Aid pharmacy. I plan to use the knowledge and skills obtained from the MBA to work my way up the chain and obtain a regional/district manager position.
What accomplishment, personally or professionally, are you most proud of?
Becoming a b-school feature.
What is something you still hope to learn, in or out of the classroom?
I have always held a strong interest in learning and plan to continue to learn every day. Shortly after graduation, I plan to pursue a degree in data analytics. I hope that through these three degrees, I will possess the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in pharmacy management.
