Class of 2026 PharmD graduate Darlyn Mendoza grew up viewing pharmacists not only as dispensers of medication, but also as accessible and trusted members of her community. Wanting to make a similar impact, Mendoza’s interest in pharmacy deepened during the COVID-19 pandemic as she witnessed firsthand how crucial pharmacists were during a time of crisis. At the same time, the pandemic limited opportunities to build connections during her undergraduate years.

Mendoza entered the College of Pharmacy hesitant about being a leader but determined to challenge herself. She gained friends and mentors that helped grow her confidence and encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone. As she prepares to graduate now, Mendoza has since held leadership roles with the University of Iowa Student Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the pharmacy leadership society Phi Lambda Sigma, and the Student National Pharmaceutical Association.

Now she’s preparing to return to Des Moines for a pharmacy residency, focusing on the same mission that first inspired her: serving the people in her community.

Read more about Darlyn Mendoza’s College of Pharmacy journey on the UI Stories website.