Ryan Ragan '15

Name: Ryan Ragan                                                  

Graduating Class: 2015

Major(s)/Minor(s): Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Your Story:  My name is Ryan Ragan; I am a senior at Gustavus. I have called Shakopee, Minnesota my home for my whole life. My parents, Ross and Carol, both earned college degrees from Mankato State University and live in Shakopee with two dogs, Sami and Ella, who are great house pets. My sister, Audra, recently received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. I chose Gustavus because of the academic reputation of the college and the opportunity to play collegiate level soccer. Coming in to college, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in biomedical engineering or one of the health professions. After two years at Gustavus, I reflected on my interests, passions, and ideal job duties and decided that a career in pharmacy was right for me. The knowledge set required of pharmacists and the direction that the profession is headed were major factors in my decision. Finally, after shadowing pharmacists in different settings I knew it was the right fit. Now I am applying to pharmacy schools across the country and will hopefully be starting pharmacy school in the fall of 2015!

Top Five Activities/Experiences: (in no particular order)

• Being a member of the Gustavus Men’s Soccer team
• Various involvement/leadership roles I’ve had on campus: Co-President of Tri-Beta Biological Honors Society and Pre-Pharmacy Area Director within the Pre-Health Club
• Two phenomenal J-Term courses full of worthwhile experiences and memories (Scotland & Curling and Spanish Sport & Culture)
• Pound Pals
• Interactions with faculty and staff regarding vocation and figuring out where I want to take my life

Advice:

Try to think of three things.... you wish you would have known or would encourage others to do....

• Actively explore different professions through shadowing opportunities. It is easier than you think to shadow professionals; it just takes the courage to make the phone call.
• Take time for yourself and remember that you are in college. Enjoy the experience and make some time to relax between homework assignments.
• Write your personal letter and resume early and update them often. In this process, utilize the resources available to you through Gustavus.

Future Plans:

Attending University of North Carolina, start Fall 2015.

                                                                                                                                                              Update 7/15/2015 HB