This article is reprinted from Dawg Scripts, the University of Washington School of Pharmacy’s Alumni Association & School of Pharmacy News Magazine (Spring/Summer 2024)
Matt Binder, ’17, discusses how integral mentorship is to ensuring the success of future pharmacists.
A proud alum of the UWSoP, Matt Binder, PharmD, ’17, owner of three Seattle-based Ostrom’s Drug & Gift pharmacies, believes the foundation of a successful career is having a genuine passion for what you do.
“I really enjoy coming to work every day,” he said. “I feel like I get the opportunity to make an impact on my community.”
Another profound way Matt and his team make an impact is through mentoring SoP students. In the world of pharmacy, education extends far beyond the walls of a classroom. It transcends textbooks and lectures, diving deep into the realms of hands-on experience and mentorship. From the moment Matt embarked on his professional career, he recognized the importance of mentorship and nurturing the next generation of pharmacists.
“As soon as I started working here shortly after graduation, I encouraged the owner at the time to start taking UW students, and we’ve had a really good chain of them ever since then,” Matt recalls fondly.
The integration of pharmacy students into the workflow of his business has been a cornerstone of Matt’s practice. From vaccinations to engaging with customers, students are given a hands-on, full-breadth experience that prepares them for their future careers.
“We really believe that the first time students perform as a pharmacist shouldn’t be after their license,” Matt emphasizes. “Our licensed pharmacists serve as that safety net for them.”
This commitment to mentorship and education has not gone unnoticed. Recently, Matt’s pharmacy received accolades in the Seattle Times’ “Best in the PNW” campaign, with Ostrom’s Drug & Gift clinching the title of Best Pharmacy in the region. Matt attributes this success to the unwavering support of his community.
“We had a lot of patients just pull out their phones and vote for us,” he shares proudly. “We really strive to be a place that people want to go to – not just an errand to check off their list.”
But beyond awards and recognition, Matt’s business has earned a reputation for fostering deep connections with their patients. “I think a major reason people come here is because they see people who know their name,” Matt explains. “We get to cultivate that extra special relationship.”
Ultimately, what brings Matt the most joy is the knowledge he is making a positive impact on people’s lives.
“What I really enjoy about healthcare is I feel at the end of the day that I’ve done something morally good,” he reflects. “I feel like I’m doing something that can help out their life, and that just makes me go to bed that much easier.”
Watch a video about Matt’s mentorship and the impact it has had on UWSoP students. WATCH HERE.