Christina Johnson | Sullivan University

Christina is a living example of what it takes to work hard and reap the rewards of dedication and diligence. Having lived on her own from the age of 15, she was forced into adulthood much earlier than anyone should be. At the advice of her high school principal, she pursued her GED, and obtained it in a matter of 3 weeks. She worked 60-80 hours a week at a minimum wage job in a nursing home, but she wanted more for her family. With childhood dreams of working in the realm of patient care, she said, “The thought of being able to help someone feel better by treating them with medications or by offering some sort of therapy just seemed fascinating.” Christina took an interest in pharmaceuticals after talking with the traveling pharmacist at the nursing home. 

After making some visits and phone calls to local colleges, she began her journey with all of the prerequisites: biology, chemistry, math, etc. It wasn’t easy, but by using her resources, paying for tutors, working, and producing side income, she
finished her undergraduate degree.

Motivated to keep going, Christina applied for and was accepted in to the Sullivan University College of Pharmacy. It was during her 2nd year in pharmacy school that she was diagnosed with dyslexia. This was the point where she realized that there was never an excuse not to finish. She would not stop until she fulfilled her dreams! While “it wasn’t always fun and games,” the professors wanted to see their students succeed, and to this day, they have continued to guide her through her career. The College of Pharmacy staff was interested in the path she had chosen, and allowed her the freedom to choose rotations that would best fit her needs.

Currently, Christina works with Rite-Aid. She aspires to use her management experience and work toward becoming a Pharmacy Manager in the next couple of years. She “would love nothing more” than to lead a team of great Pharmacists and technicians to continue serving the patients.