Bailey Powers (submitted)

Forks’ newest pharmacist comes full circle

Recently we caught up with Pirate alumnus Bailey Powers. Between working full time, studying for board exams, and getting ready for a well-earned vacation, she was able to share a bit about her journey from Forks HS/Running Start graduate to earning her Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

I always wanted a career in healthcare, but I get queasy with blood and wounds, so I ruled out nursing and a few other specialties. I became interested in a career as a pharmacist when I started working at Chinook Pharmacy in Forks as a teenager. After school and on weekends I cleaned the store, worked the cash register, and shadowed the pharmacist when I had a chance.

Pharmacists are ultimately responsible for safely dispensing prescriptions. It is our job to determine if a prescription is safe for the patient based on drug interactions, food interactions, dosing, renal function, liver function, and so many other things! We work very closely with prescribers to determine the best medication for a patient. We also provide immunizations, blood pressure and blood glucose screenings, and medication management services.

I wanted to return to my hometown of Forks, Washington to be close to my family and continue working at Chinook Pharmacy, which has been my only job since I was 16. I also wanted to bring my education back to the Olympic Peninsula since we have such a hard time finding healthcare providers.

I joined Peninsula College’s Running Start Program because I wanted to complete a couple of years at community college while in high school to save time and money. I graduated from Forks High School with a diploma, and from Peninsula College with an Associate’s of Science degree, in June 2017. In May 2019 I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Washington State University and graduated in May 2023 from WSU with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

I found Peninsula College to be a great stepping stone between high school and university. The professors are wonderful—you have all the help you could possibly need, as long as you utilize it. The professors know your face, your name, and care about your learning. This is not always true at a university. One thing that really helped me do well at PC was the math lab. I spent a lot of time there, with Tulsi and Randy. I am not the greatest at math but ended up doing well because they were so helpful. I was thankful I took the calculus series at PC where I had all those resources available to me.

My educational trajectory prepared me for my role as a pharmacist by teaching me how to be an efficient clinician, logically make appropriate decisions, and communicate with providers and patients. My education also helped me become very familiar with the different resources available and how to use them to make the best clinical decision.

I would definitely recommend Peninsula College to other students. I loved the atmosphere at PC—it’s a very relaxed, comfortable, and supportive environment. The professors are wonderful and very knowledgeable. I enjoyed the smaller, close-knit campus, and met some of my closest friends at the college. I still keep in touch with quite a few of my old professors. I also highly recommend the Running Start Program to high school students. Having two years of community college when I started school at WSU really helped the transition go smoothly.

Pharmacy is a quickly evolving field; new drugs are constantly entering the market, treatment guidelines for disease states change yearly, and the role of pharmacists is expanding rapidly. As a pharmacist, my goal is to stay up to date with information to ensure I am providing the best care to my patients. I also hope to be someone who is helpful and willing to go the extra mile for them. I would also love to own my own pharmacy one day.

Learn more about Peninsula College at pencol.edu or on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The news and editorial staff of Sound Publishing, Inc. had no role in the preparation of this post. The views and opinions expressed in this sponsored post are those of the advertiser and do not reflect those of Sound Publishing, Inc.

Sound Publishing, Inc. does not accept liability for any loss or damages caused by the use of any products, nor do we endorse any products posted in our Marketplace.

More in Local Marketplace

Registration for Summer Camp at YMCA’s new Early Learning Center at the 7th Haven Apartment Complex is now open! Located just a few blocks from Jefferson Healthcare at 1351 7th Street, Suite Y. Photos courtesy of the the Olympic Peninsula YMCA.
The YMCA kicks off a new Early Learning Center with preschool summer camps

Affordable child care and preschool summer fun now available in East Jefferson County

“In Washington State, people who work here can’t afford to live here,” says Ellen Michael Caldwell, Director of Communications for Habitat for Humanity East Jefferson County. Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity East Jefferson County.
Building hope, one home at a time

As housing needs rise, Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County grows

But what really sets a HELOC apart? It’s not just about borrowing – it’s about borrowing smarter. Courtesy First Fed. Courtesy First Fed
What makes a HELOC unique – and how to access your funds

When homeowners need flexible financing, a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)… Continue reading

Field Hall has an exciting summer season planned, including two standout performances: international cellist and one-man orchestra Ian Maksin (Aug. 21), and a stripped-down funk and soul set from Lucky and the Locals (Aug. 22). Photo courtesy of Field Hall.
Field Hall announces 2025 Summer season focused on fun, family and free events

The Port Angeles event center highlights international and local talent for summer

The City of Port Angeles received the 2025 Implementation Award from the Washington Chapter of the American Planning Association and Planning Association of Washington, recognizing its innovative and impactful housing initiatives. Courtesy City of Port Angeles
Port Angeles pursues Housing for All

City earns prestigious state-wide planning award for housing initiatives

Sequim Valley Chapel supports families beyond the funeral arrangements with a range of grief support services
What happens after you pass away? Sequim Valley Funeral Chapel explains the funeral process

Professionals help grieving families navigate the first steps after loss – offering clarity, compassion and 24/7 support

As the company mascot, Molly the French bulldog has helped Moore Construction stand out in a crowded industry. Courtesy Moore Construction
Moore than homes: Local builder thrives with First Fed

When Matt Moore launched Moore Construction in 2021, it started with two… Continue reading

YMCA summer camps across the Olympic Peninsula offer kids fun, friendship and growth through themed activities focused on community and values.
Summer starts here! YMCA camps bring fun, growth and community to the Olympic Peninsula

Camps are designed around the Y’s core values – caring, honesty, respect and responsibility

Honoring the lives of loved ones with compassion, Sequim Valley Funeral Chapel guides families through memorial planning and pre-arrangements.
Planning ahead: How prearranged funerals ease emotional and financial burdens for loved ones

Sequim funeral home encourages early planning to ensure wishes are met

During First Fed’s 2024 Community Spirit Day, more than 170 employees volunteered across 21 nonprofits throughout western Washington, contributing 700+ volunteer hours in a single day.
Banking on Community: First Fed Foundation celebrates 10 years

If you live on the Olympic Peninsula or anywhere in western Washington,… Continue reading

Since 2010, Liz Parks (in yellow) has built more than a real estate agency; she’s built a family. As she steps into retirement, RE/MAX Prime continues to thrive, guided by the same principles that made it a success.
Sequim real estate broker reflects on long career and those who made it possible

Liz Parks proves that in real estate, relationships matter most

Every year around this time, a dedicated team prepares Sequim View, Dungeness and Mount Angeles cemeteries for Memorial Day, honoring veterans through meticulous care, flag placements and new niche banks in the Veterans’ Circle.
A behind-the-scenes look at preparing cemeteries to honor veterans

For months ahead of Memorial Day, a team of two meticulously prepares the grounds.