Community Corner
Midwestern Pharmacy Students Host College Day for Little Friends Group
Student group offer hands-on learning and community connection for individuals with developmental disabilities
On April 23, 2025, Midwestern University’s Downers Grove Campus welcomed students from Little Friends for a special College Day hosted by the University’s chapter of Phi Lambda Sigma, the international pharmacy leadership society.
Little Friends, a nonprofit based in the western suburbs, provides vital support for individuals with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and social-emotional challenges. The campus visit was designed to introduce participants to the world of pharmacy and give them a fun, engaging look at college life.
A Day of Discovery and Inclusion
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Each visiting student was paired with a pharmacy student volunteer who served as a guide and mentor throughout the day. Activities included interactive lab experiences, a tour of the state-of-the-art Simulation Center, and pharmacy-themed educational games, each tailored to be inclusive and accessible.
“Our goal was to share a day in the life of a student pharmacist in a way that was interactive, fun, and accessible,” said Bethany Jimenez (CPDG ’26), Phi Lambda Sigma Vice President and Event Lead.
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Hands-On Learning and Lasting Impressions
One of the highlights of the day was a hands-on lab session facilitated by Elizabeth Langan, M.D., Teaching Assistant, Pharmaceutical Sciences. Participants created their own hand sanitizer while learning about hygiene, chemistry, and lab safety in a friendly and engaging environment.
“We highly enjoyed our time with Dr. Langan,” said Bethany. “She brought science to life in a way that everyone could enjoy.”
The group also toured Midwestern’s Simulation Center, where Kelly Lempicki, Pharm.D., BCPS, Assistant Director, Simulation Center, introduced the visitors to lifelike mannequins and mock clinical environments.
After a shared lunch in the Faculty Dining Room, the group played a pharmacy-themed matching game and participated in “Pill vs. Candy,” a safety activity highlighting the challenges of identifying medications and the importance of label literacy.
“The volunteers showed such warmth and dedication,” Bethany added. “They truly helped make this day special for our guests.”
College Day offered a meaningful opportunity for pharmacy students to engage with the community, gain perspective on patient-centered care, and foster community connections between future healthcare professionals and the individuals they may one day serve.
