When Justina DeSantis, a third-year pharmacy student, received the In Memory of Talal Khanfar by Dr. Nile M. Khanfar and wife Dr. Lenda I. Murab Changing Lives Scholarship, she was grateful for the award and the assistance it provided in furthering her education in pharmacy at the NSU Palm Beach Campus. The scholarship became even more meaningful to her when Khanfar became her professor.
“He is one of the most encouraging professors I’ve ever encountered,” she said. “He tragically lost one of his kids when they were young, and he told me how he and his wife got through that, and how it’s made them stronger. He’s positive all day long. He’s a very inspiring person, and he makes you want to do your best.”
With Khanfar’s encouragement, DeSantis is motivated to bring her A game to NSU, especially since the university’s College of Pharmacy has been her goal for years. Originally from Lithuania, DeSantis moved to the United States when she was eight, and her family settled in Florida a few years later. In 2013, DeSantis was attending Palm Beach State College when NSU came into view.
“I’ve actually been next to the NSU campus since my first year of undergrad when I lived across the street from the Palm Beach Campus,” she said.
After completing her associate’s degree at Palm Beach State College and then earning her bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida, DeSantis decided to pursue a career in science. She did not feel medical school was the right path for her, but found the opportunities in the field of pharmacy piqued her interest.
“Coming from another country, I was very motivated to go to school and succeed so that I did not have to struggle like my mom did,” DeSantis, who is now a mother herself, explained. “I was trying to think of something that would be doable for me, and that I would enjoy. I’m very happy with my choice, because it’s definitely in my area.”
And after of years of passing by the NSU campus, she didn’t even consider any other pharmacy schools. She visited the campus, talked with administrators, and knew it was the right fit.
“I liked the diversity NSU had, and I knew it would be inclusive because I came from another country,” she explained. “NSU was definitely the best choice for me.”
During her studies, DeSantis has already gained hands-on experience at both a retail and hospital pharmacy. She has also developed a special bond with her classmates. They study together, hop on Zoom to discuss the material they are learning, and even share a laugh when feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
“I thought I would just do my work. But because I have my classmates, I am really blessed. I didn’t expect that to happen at NSU, but we motivate each other, and I know these will be my friends forever.”
After graduating, DeSantis is leaning toward working in a community pharmacy so she can build relationships with her customers and be accessible when they have questions or concerns. She is grateful to have received a Changing Lives Scholarship to help her reach her goals.
“I chose pharmacy because this path will allow me to take care of my family and make a positive difference in the community,” she said. “Donors who give scholarships need to know that it means a lot to the students. It makes a difference knowing there is support behind you.”
For more information on how to support the NSU College of Pharmacy, please contact Shannon Wayte, executive director of advancement, at (954) 262-2179 or via email at shannon.wayte@nova.edu.