Faculty Spotlight: Mi Suk Bae

Courses:

• Methods of Evaluation of Drug Action and Toxicity: I
• Human Physiology and Pathophysiology II
• Foundations in Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry

Research:

Thrombosis, vascular biology, and therapeutics development

Why did you decide to study pharmacy or pharmaceutical sciences?

I had a long-standing interest in the health sciences and believed I would become a medical doctor or biomedical engineer. When I was a high school senior, I learned from my teacher about the profession of pharmacists and their role in multidisciplinary science. I loved pharmacy and thought becoming a pharmacist was my calling.

What sparked your interest in academia?

As a student pharmacist, I participated in a rotation at a cancer center in a hospital. During this time, I met cancer patients suffering from diseases. These experiences informed my decision to continue my career in science, develop therapeutics, and contribute to improving patients' lives.

What brought you to the Duquesne University School of Pharmacy?

I followed my heart after learning the mission of Duquesne University to serve students and the community. I believe that teaching is my calling. I approach the learning environment as a coach, engaging with students in a team-based environment and inspiring them to treat each other with respect and compassion. It aligns with Duquesne University's mission.

What do you enjoy most about interacting with students and helping them progress?

I sincerely believe that the very essence of an educator is to encourage and motivate students as their future peers within the larger intellectual community. I enjoy supporting their growth inside and outside the classroom through mentorship.

If you were to talk to a prospective student, what would you say sets the Duquesne University SOP apart from other pharmacy schools?

Duquesne University is a unique school dedicated to developing interpersonal skills for students' success in a diverse and inclusive community. Students learn to work in teams, improving their relationships with peers. In addition, the faculty values individual students and appreciates their background in the learning environment. Thus, a trusting atmosphere between students and faculty ultimately improves collective understanding of the subject in the classroom.

Any fun facts, talents, or anything else inside or outside of your role at the SOP you'd like to share?

I like cooking and sharing the food I cook with people. At the SOP, I serve on a faculty development committee, a graduate curriculum committee, and an external seminar committee. As my role outside of the SOP, I participate in activities as an active and grassroots network member to advocate science in various scientific organizations, particularly in the fields of cardiovascular disease and hematology.