Pharmacist-in-training Rebecca Galvan strives to help cure aches and pains, one patient at a time.
A Coral Shores Class of 2018 graduate, Galvan had her sights set on a health career from a young age. She thought about pursuing a pre-med track or becoming a physician’s assistant; she ultimately landed on a career path in pharmacy.
“I felt like my experiences at pharmacies were positive from a young age,” Galvan said. “A friend’s mom worked at the CVS in Key Largo. I really liked the small-town community pharmacy vibe.”
Galvan was 4 years old when her family moved to the Upper Keys. Her dad owns Andy’s Pools in Key Largo, and her sister, Andrea, operates a dance studio at the Pink Plaza in Key Largo.
Following high school graduation, Galvan attended the University of Florida. She enrolled in the college’s 3+4 program, which allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree and doctor of pharmacy in seven years. She worked at CVS pharmacy in Gainesville during school, and it was there where Galvan took pride in being the support system in a health care sense for the local community.
“If a person had questions about a cold, flu or more complex and chronic conditions, I like being that person to help set them up and get them what they need,” she said. “A lot of times patients can’t make it to their physician or primary care doctor. The pharmacy can be an easier place to get in contact with a health care professional.”
Galvan said she’s currently working in different health settings as part of a community pharmacy rotation. She recently spent time at a Melbourne hospital.
Once she graduates in May, Galvan will head to Rhode Island where she’ll take a clinical pharmacy role at CVS Health’s corporate office for a year.
“I’ve worked for CVS for almost four years now, so it’s exciting to take the next step with a company that’s been supportive,” Galvan said.
Galvan is especially appreciative for the four-year scholarship she received through the Upper Keys Rotary Club and Baptist Health South Florida’s Mariners Hospital. Proceeds from the Gigantic Nautical Market help fund scholarships for graduating high schoolers and students continuing their college education.
“It was a huge motivation and confirmation that I have the support to do what I want as a student,” she said.
Galvan is especially thankful for her Keys upbringing and the close community, as seen during the Gigantic Nautical Market.
“Everyone I talked to about my high school experiences, I describe the Keys as very supportive, unique and one of a kind,” she said. “While the Gigantic Nautical Market is about shopping, it’s also an opportunity for everyone to pitch in and help out and support the future.”
