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Meet Harley Biala, a Robertson College Pharmacy Assistant graduate who landed his first job before even finishing his program and recently added a second role to his resume.
Harley Biala didn’t wait until graduation to start his career. Three months into his Pharmacy Assistant studies at Robertson College, he applied to Medisystem Pharmacy, Loblaw’s largest long-term care pharmacy. They saw his enthusiasm and commitment to learning, and offered him a position on the spot.
“Starting my job so early in the program gave me valuable hands-on experience that complemented my studies and helped me grow quickly in the field,” Harley explains.
Today, he’s not only still working at Medisystem but has also recently accepted a part-time Coordinator position at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg. He’s building a career that spans different areas of healthcare, and he’s just getting started.
For Harley, the appeal of pharmacy work goes beyond just dispensing medications. He’s fascinated by the science behind it all.
“I’ve always been fascinated by the science behind how medications work and their pharmacological effects on the body,” he says. “The idea of studying and understanding how different drugs interact with the human system really inspired me to pursue this career.”
That curiosity about how medications work in the body drives his work every day. He enjoys being part of a field that directly contributes to people’s health and well-being by ensuring they receive the right medications and support.
The Robertson College program gave Harley a solid foundation in pharmacy principles and practical skills. The coursework was comprehensive, and the hands-on learning opportunities helped him build confidence to apply what he learned in real-world settings.
“The instructors were supportive and knowledgeable, creating an environment that encouraged questions and growth,” Harley notes. “Overall, the program prepared me well for my current role and gave me the tools to succeed in the healthcare field.”
Some of the most valuable skills he gained? Communication, organization, and attention to detail. Learning how to communicate effectively with both healthcare professionals and patients has been crucial. So has developing the organizational skills needed to manage medication records and coordinate tasks in a busy pharmacy environment.
“The program taught me the importance of attention to detail and accuracy, especially when handling prescriptions and medication dosages,” he explains. “These skills have helped me provide better care and support in my current role.”
One thing Harley didn’t anticipate? Just how much communication and teamwork the role requires.
“While I expected to focus mainly on medications and prescriptions, I quickly realized that collaborating closely with pharmacists, healthcare staff, and patients is a big part of the job,” he says. “It requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to stay calm and organized, especially during busy times.”
That realization helped him grow both professionally and personally. Now, working as part of a healthcare team and supporting others gives him a strong sense of purpose and satisfaction.
For Harley, the most rewarding part of his work is making a real difference in people’s health and well-being.
“I find it rewarding to help patients understand their medications and ensure they receive the right treatments safely,” he says. “I also appreciate the continuous learning aspect, the field is always evolving, so there’s always something new to discover.”
That continuous learning keeps the work interesting. And with his new Coordinator role at Health Sciences Centre, he’s expanding his skills in healthcare coordination and administration, opening up even more opportunities for growth.
For current students or recent graduates looking to break into the field, Harley’s advice is straightforward: stay proactive and open to learning opportunities.
“Getting hands-on experience, even early in your studies, can make a big difference, don’t hesitate to apply for positions or internships that allow you to gain practical skills,” he advises. “Building good communication and teamwork skills is also essential since this profession involves working closely with healthcare teams and patients.”
He also emphasizes patience and persistence. “Breaking into the field can take time, but staying committed and adaptable will pay off in the long run.”
For anyone considering the Pharmacy Assistant program, Harley encourages being prepared for a mix of theory and practical learning.
“Reading the course books and case studies is incredibly helpful for understanding medications and how they work in real-life situations,” he says. “Attend your online and in-person classes as much as possible, being present really helps you grasp the practical side of the profession much better.”
He also stresses the importance of staying organized and managing your time well, since the coursework can be demanding. But the hands-on experience you gain is invaluable.
“Take advantage of all the resources and support the school offers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions as the instructors are there to help you succeed,” Harley adds. “Most importantly, be passionate and committed, because this program sets a strong foundation for a rewarding career in healthcare.”
Harley’s story shows that you don’t have to wait until graduation to start building your career. With the right skills, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn, opportunities can come sooner than you think.
If you’re inspired by Harley’s story and are considering a career as a pharmacy assistant, Robertson College provides a supportive environment and flexible learning options to help you succeed, no matter what else you’re juggling in life.
Learn More About Robertson College’s Pharmacy Assistant Program.
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