Hello, my name is John Vincent Reyes, but you can call me JV. As a registered pharmacist from the Philippines, I am currently embarking on a new chapter of my academic career in the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta. I moved here to pursue an affordable Master’s in Pharmacy and advance my professional expertise.
I attend advanced classes weekly and refine my pharmaceutical skills in a traditional, high-quality local pharmacy setting. One of the many benefits of living here is my commute; I reside just a two-minute bus ride from the capital city of Valletta, which provides endless inspiration for my passion for photography.
Why I Chose to Study in Malta
This journey has been a life-changing opportunity. Although I had already spent five years working as a licensed pharmacist in the Philippines, I found it difficult to self-fund my graduate studies on a local salary.
Fortunately, Malta is currently addressing a shortage of pharmacists through a strategic partnership between the Malta Medicines Authority and the University of Malta to attract global talent. This unique programme provides both a scholarship and a fellowship, which requires working 20 hours per week in a local pharmacy. This setup has allowed me to afford my studies, gain valuable international experience, and immediately apply my theoretical classroom learning to real-world patient care.
Why I Chose Pharmacy, even though my first choice was Accountancy
To be completely honest, a career in Pharmacy wasn't my original plan. Before I began my undergraduate studies, I envisioned myself working in accounting or a standard office-based role.
However, after a friend encouraged me to explore the field, we decided to apply for the Pharmacy programme together. Although he eventually shifted his focus to a different course, I gradually discovered a deep passion for the subject. As I delved into the complexities of chemistry and pharmacology, my curiosity grew, and I became truly fascinated by the significant impact pharmacy has on public health and patient outcomes.
By the time I completed my Bachelor’s degree, I had become fully committed to a career in pharmacy.
Challenges I faced in the Application Process and Studying Abroad
Relocating to Malta was not without its hurdles. Navigating the visa application process was particularly nerve-wracking; because there is no Maltese embassy in the Philippines, my paperwork required processing in Beijing, which usually takes up to three months. Thankfully, with some helpful guidance, I received my visa in just over a month.
Aside from the visa, the rest of the application was seamless, thanks to the very efficient and straightforward enrollment process at the University of Malta.
Nevertheless, once I settled into Malta, I encountered different challenges of a different nature. Living abroad independently meant adjusting to a new culture, navigating unfamiliar public transport, and adapting to a different academic teaching style. Despite these initial adjustments, I have gained valuable life experience and truly enjoy my new environment.
The academic system here differs significantly from that in the Philippines, with a much stronger emphasis on practical and clinical application. I have only two theoretical courses, allowing me to spend significant time in a local pharmacy, where I can directly apply my studies. My mentor at the pharmacy is incredibly supportive, offering deep insights from her twenty years of experience in the field.
Overall, I believe that building a strong network is essential. Since arriving, I have made many wonderful friends, which has been a highlight of my stay. My advice to any fellow international student is to be proactive—whenever you face an issue, don't hesitate to reach out and ask for support.
Additionally, it is important to nurture your hobbies. I am an avid photographer, and Malta’s stunning scenery has provided me with countless opportunities to document my life here.
My plan for the future: go for the Doctorate
Once I complete my Master’s, I intend to apply for a PhD programme as well. The initiative supported by the Malta Medicines Authority also extends to doctoral studies, and I am eager to continue my research and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the pharmaceutical field.
It’s perfectly normal not to know your career path immediately. There is a vast difference between the office-based jobs I once thought I wanted and the hands-on laboratory and clinical work I thrive in today. Through experimentation and trying new things, I finally discovered where my true professional passion lies.
Don’t fear change or the possibility of making a mistake. Taking risks and pivoting often leads to the most rewarding outcomes.