ASHP Midyear, happening this year from December 8th to the 12th in New Orleans, is the largest gathering of pharmacy professionals in the world, drawing in around 20,000 attendees. The event offers clinical meetings, CE sessions, residency showcases, and numerous networking opportunities. It’s also strategically timed around residency application deadlines, which gives students a chance to refine their applications with insights gained from the event.

But let’s talk about the costs. The price tag for attending ASHP Midyear isn’t insignificant. Between registration, travel, accommodations, and meals, you’re looking at spending anywhere between $1,500 to $2,500 or more. For a practicing pharmacist, registration costs just under $175 if you’re a member, but it jumps to $1,375 if you’re not a member. For pharmacy students and technicians, it’s $425 as a member, or $495 without membership. However, becoming an ASHP member is a smart move. Membership costs only $75 annually, which makes it a good deal, as it not only saves you money on conference registration but also gives you access to valuable resources and a vast network.

Food and accommodations will also add to the cost. Meals are often provided at the conference, but you should budget for some extra expenses. Staying at a nearby hotel can cost around $150 per night, which adds up quickly if you plan on attending for several days. For those looking to cut costs, sharing a room or even opting for unconventional accommodations, like staying in a van or car (something I’ve done before), could be an option.

So, how do you make the most of your investment at ASHP Midyear? For students, the biggest draw is the residency showcase. This is an incredible opportunity to discover residency programs you may not have known about. Additionally, Personal Placement Services (PPS) provide a chance to interview with residency programs and employers in a professional setting — think of it as speed dating for careers. Even if you don’t match with a program, it’s an excellent chance to practice your interview skills.

However, ASHP Midyear isn’t for everyone. It’s an event that demands preparation and a proactive mindset. If you haven’t done any research into residency programs or career options, it’s better to reconsider attending. Too many students show up without a clear plan, asking the same generic questions that don’t leave a lasting impression. If you’re not willing to put in the effort to make new connections or explore other career opportunities, you might be better off attending a smaller, local residency conference.

For those who are serious about making the most of ASHP Midyear, here are some strategies to maximize your experience. Start by reaching out to professors for program recommendations and connections. They likely have extensive networks and can help introduce you to key people. Review program websites and study the offerings beforehand, so you can ask more insightful questions that reflect your genuine interest. Also, work on perfecting your personal introduction — when meeting program directors or potential employers, a short, impactful pitch can set you apart from the crowd.

Networking at ASHP Midyear is key. The conference is full of professionals who could become future employers or colleagues, so don’t just stick with your friends. Approach others, ask questions, and genuinely get to know people. Keep your CV and business cards handy, but don’t rely on them alone — take the time to connect on a deeper level.

Follow up after meetings by sending personalized messages. This simple act can make a world of difference and help you stand out from other attendees. Remember, the pharmacy world is small, and your reputation matters. Making meaningful connections now can pay off in the future.

While attending ASHP Midyear, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of New Orleans, but remember why you’re there. Don’t let distractions, like partying, get in the way of making a good impression. The opportunity to secure your future in pharmacy is worth far more than a few nights of fun.

In the end, ASHP Midyear is worth it if you come prepared and ready to engage. If you’ve done your research, made the right connections, and stayed focused on your career goals, the experience can be invaluable. But if you’re not ready to make the most of the event, you might be better off sticking with a smaller conference or focusing on other career-building opportunities.

Whatever you decide, make sure it aligns with your career vision. ASHP Midyear could be the key to unlocking new opportunities, but only if you’re fully prepared to take advantage of everything it offers.