Learning to Lead: Insights from a Recent Graduate and New Preceptor

IPPE and APPE rotations are learning experiences for both students and preceptors. As a recent graduate and a first-time preceptor, I have a unique perspective and am happy to share some helpful tips.

• Student goals

  • Get to know your student. Ask about their long- and short-term goals.

  • Discuss what they hope to learn in their current rotation that will be useful in their future career choice.

  • Discuss your student’s learning style.

  • Talk about how and when they prefer to receive feedback. Specify that the feedback is to benefit both of you.

• Student past experiences

  • Assess your student’s baseline knowledge and experience.

  • Review your student’s CV and ask about previous rotations and pharmacy-related work experience. This will help you, the preceptor, tailor your student’s rotation activities and experience.

  • Expose your student to new things! Having your student step out of their comfort zone is crucial to their development as a pharmacist.

  • Incorporate topic discussions around the current courses they are taking. This will help solidify their knowledge and create an opportunity to clarify questions.

• Tailor experience to current courses and interests

  • As a preceptor, try to be as flexible as work permits to meet your student’s objectives. This can include sending the student to other preceptors for certain experiences that fit the learners’ goals.

  • Make sure to discuss with your student the need to be flexible. As you exchange feedback throughout the rotation, be open to adjusting the experience as needed.

Final thoughts

As a preceptor, the time with the student is a learning opportunity for you both. Remember that sometimes students require more guidance establishing goals or learning new practices. Each student has different needs, goals, and learning requirements. Be sure you mentor and teach according to their needs and learning level. Be the preceptor from whom everyone wants to learn!