Fleming College Pharmacy Technician Students Share Hospital Placement Experiences 

Inside a Hospital Pharmacy: Student Perspectives from Fleming’s Technician Program 

As the semester winds down, many students are taking a moment to reflect on how far they’ve come. For students in Fleming College’s Pharmacy Technician program, this includes real-world experience in busy hospital environments. 

Through their hospital placements, students gained a first-hand look at what it’s like to work on the front lines of patient care. From preparing medications in sterile cleanrooms to interviewing patients in the emergency room, these hands-on experiences gave students a deeper understanding of the role pharmacy technicians play in supporting safe and effective treatment. 

Here’s what Darshna Patel and Amit Chhikara had to say about their time in placement and how their Fleming education helped them prepare for life after graduation. 

“Every day brought something new, from exploring hospital systems and drug dispensing workflows to participating in patient interviews and observing sterile preparation. I can proudly say this was one of the most meaningful experiences in my journey so far.” – Darshna Patel

Putting Knowledge into Practice 

In class, Pharmacy Technician students at Fleming learn how to prepare medications, maintain accurate records, and communicate with both patients and healthcare professionals. Their placements take that learning one step further into real hospitals, with real patients, and real responsibilities. 

“Being physically present in the aseptic unit truly brought everything to life. I gained a deep appreciation for how much accuracy and attention to detail is needed when preparing medications that patients rely on.” – Darshna Patel

Students also participated in what’s called a medication reconciliation, or “med rec”—a process where they review a patient’s medication history to prevent errors during hospital admissions or transfers. 

“We even handled tricky situations, like a medication discrepancy in the ER. It helped me realize how serious and detailed this process really is.” – Amit Chhikara

Eye-Opening Experiences 

For many students, placement was a chance to see medications and procedures they’d only read about in textbooks. From preparing chemotherapy medication in a specialized cleanroom to learning about Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) kits, the experience helped them understand the real-world impact of their training. 

“It’s a sensitive and serious area of pharmacy care that I now understand more deeply.” – Amit Chhikara

They also worked with crash carts (used in emergency situations), used automated medication packaging machines, and load hospital dispensing systems—many of which they had practiced using in Fleming’s labs. 

Classroom Learning That Translates to Real Life 

Both students shared how well their Fleming courses prepared them for placement. Whether it was proper technique in sterile environments, communicating with patients, or handling advanced technology, their training gave them a strong foundation. 

“I was fully prepared thanks to my college training. The hospital staff even appreciated how well-prepared I was.” – Amit Chhikara

“Our instructors taught us everything with precision, and I could see how our college training matched real-life expectations.” – Darshna Patel

A Step Toward the Future 

After several weeks on-site, these students returned to campus with more than just new skills; they gained confidence, clarity, and a deeper passion for the field. 

“My placement has enhanced my clinical knowledge, professionalism, and confidence in handling real-life scenarios in a dynamic and fast-paced healthcare setting.” – Darshna Patel

Feeling reflective? 

We’d love to hear your story too! If you’re a Fleming student who wants to share your experience, submit your reflection for a chance to be featured on Fleming Connect.