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Hi! I’m a high school student from El Salvador interested in studying pharmaceutical sciences in college. I’m passionate about community service and would love to start a project, school initiative, or extracurricular activity that could show leadership and help me stand out in college applications. What kind of passion project or community-focused initiative would you recommend that connects with my interest in pharmaceutical sciences or health in general"?

Hi! I’m a high school student from El Salvador interested in studying pharmaceutical sciences in college. I’m passionate about community service and would love to start a project, school initiative, or extracurricular activity that could show leadership and help me stand out in college applications. What kind of passion project or community-focused initiative would you recommend that connects with my interest in pharmaceutical sciences or health in general?" I'm rising senior and don't have much time and I'm really missing something that transmits leadership. I want to start something but, for community work initiatives most of them have been don and I want to be innovative, any ideas?

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victor’s Answer

Hi! That’s a fantastic and thoughtful goal—especially as you're heading into senior year and want to demonstrate leadership, initiative, and alignment with your passion for pharmaceutical sciences. The key is to find something community-focused, actionable within a few months, and innovative or personal enough to stand out.

Here are creative, impactful ideas tailored to your background, interests, and time constraints:

victor recommends the following next steps:

What it is: Create a project that educates your community—especially youth and elderly—on safe medication use, antibiotic resistance, fake drugs, or self-medication risks. How to lead it: Partner with a local pharmacy, clinic, or teacher. Make short, clear flyers or host a small info session at school or a community center. Translate materials into Spanish and use simple visuals—this increases accessibility and real impact. You can even create an Instagram account or a short TikTok campaign to spread awareness digitally. Why it stands out: Health literacy is underserved, and tying it to pharmaceuticals is relevant and innovative. You’re not just helping—you're educating, leading, and using your academic interest to create change.
Pharma & Health Innovation Challenge" at School What it is: Host a mini-competition or challenge at your school for students to propose low-cost health or pharmaceutical solutions for local community problems. How to lead it: Create a simple Google Form to gather ideas. Set themes like “Improving Access to Medicine,” “Health Education for Kids,” or “Reducing Plastic in Pharmacies.” Invite a local pharmacist or teacher to judge. Award certificates or small prizes (even digital). Why it stands out: It’s a low-cost but high-leadership initiative that inspires peers and shows you're a mobilizer of ideas, not just a participant.
Natural Remedies & Scientific Thinking Workshop What it is: Host a workshop or online series comparing traditional Salvadoran herbal remedies with evidence-based medicine. How to lead it: Collect common remedies from your family or elders. Research their scientific background—are they helpful? Harmful? Unknown? Present findings to your school or publish them in a simple blog or booklet. Bonus: Invite a local pharmacist or doctor to talk about this bridge between tradition and science. Why it stands out: It honors your culture while showing scientific curiosity and leadership in health education. Colleges love this type of intersection.
Health Access Map or Guide for Teens What it is: Create a simple printed or digital guide to low-cost or free health services for teens in your area, including mental health, pharmacies, or emergency support. How to lead it: Gather real info from clinics and services in your city. Create a clear, student-friendly PDF or poster. Distribute it at school or via WhatsApp groups. Why it stands out: It solves a real local problem, it’s student-led, and it shows initiative, care, and innovation.
Mini Health Fair / “Ask a Pharmacist” Day What it is: Organize a one-day event where students or families can ask questions to a real pharmacist or healthcare worker about medications, first aid, etc. How to lead it: Partner with a local pharmacy or clinic. Set it up at your school or community space. Add booths on “How to read a prescription” or “Emergency medicine 101.” Why it stands out: Real-world impact + clear leadership. If you plan and host the event, colleges will definitely see you as a change-maker.
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Crystal’s Answer

Hi Sofia,
I studied medical science in high school, and although it's a bit different from pharmaceuticals, I organized a blood drive! It's a fantastic way to help many people, involve your community, practice leadership skills, give back, and learn more about the field.
It's wonderful to see you eager to help others and learn at the same time!
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Michael’s Answer

Good thoughts
Your first priority should be your studies at this point.
If your grades are not excellent in math and science no extracurricular activities will make up for that
Volunteering at a food bank, homeless shelter is a good first step in showing commitment to community service.
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Mary’s Answer

Run a drug take back program where you work with a local pharmacy to collect expired medications or those that are no longer needed from the community.
Run prescription delivery service for those in need
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Yisel’s Answer

Hi Sofia,

It's fantastic that you're excited about studying pharmaceutical science in college. If you're thinking about starting a project in your town or community, a good first step is to grab some paper and a pen and think about what challenges your community faces. Are there issues like food shortages or economic struggles? For instance, even though education is free in El Salvador, many people still can't access good education, especially in rural areas, which keeps them from improving their lives.

You might consider organizing a bookbag drive for young children, including essentials like pencils and paper, or begin by volunteering at a local medical center. You could also look into donating supplies. These activities are excellent ways to understand the needs of your community and make a positive impact.
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