What does leadership look like after the Fellowship year ends? In this ongoing Q&A series, we hear directly from Schweitzer Fellows for Life as they reflect on the lessons that have shaped their paths—personally, professionally, and in service to others. From career milestones to moments of impact, these stories highlight the enduring influence of the Fellowship and the many ways our alumni continue to lead with purpose.

Name: Erin U. Smith

Fellowship Year: 2024-25

Q: What are you currently doing professionally or academically, and how do you feel your Schweitzer Fellowship experience has helped you in your current position?

A: I am currently in my 3rd year of Pharmacy School and my experience from the Schweitzer Fellowship gave me the skills and knowledge to lead an organization this year focused on loving and servicing others. The Fellowship taught me what it takes to be a leader and how to make dreams and ideas into a reality.

Q: What do you remember most about your Schweitzer Fellowship experience, or what was the most surprising or unexpected gain?

A: I remember the people I interacted with the most during my fellowship year. Hearing patients’ stories and the impact my project had on them will always be something I cherish.

Q: Tell us more about your ASF project and how you feel it helped shape your career path or academic focus.

A: My project was based in a clinic that serves uninsured and underserved people in our community. While there, I focused on taking time to counsel patients on some of their medications and helped keep inventory of the medications available at the clinic. This experience just solidified my desire to work with this population in the future and continue to make a different in my community in whatever ways I can.

Q: How has the Fellowship influenced how you approach leadership, service, or community engagement?

A: The fellowship has helped open my eyes to so many different perspectives and experiences people have in the community. It helped shape the way I approach leadership by showing me how to listen to others and adapt to unexpected changes.

Q: What advice would you give to current or future Schweitzer Fellows?

A: Don’t brush off this experience! There are so many more things I wish I could have done during my time, but I also need to remember that I did make a difference and that is something to be proud of.