Staff Spotlight: Jhonatan Alcazar

We’re celebrating our Lodge staff member “Jhon” as he prepares to begin an exciting new chapter. 

After recently completing Army AIT training as an electrician, he is heading to the University of Montana to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy(PharmD) degree.

We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.  Read on for more about Jhon.

What inspired you to pursue a PharmD degree?

I knew that I wanted to be somewhere in healthcare.  I thought I might be scared of blood, so after exploring the career day with Sidney Health Center, Pharmacy is what stuck with me.

How has your experience in the Army shaped you?

I believe it has made me more resilient.  Not every day is the same.  Some days might be challenging, while others are full of victories.  Each day is an opportunity to grow yourself and help those around you become better versions of themselves.

What was the most valuable lesson you learned during AIT?

Independence.

How has working at The Lodge influenced your career goals?

Working at The Lodge has influenced my passion to work and help people.  I take joy in the relationships built with our residents.  They are much like family.

What has been your favorite memory while working with our residents?

There are so many memories!  But one from even before I became a kitchen aide is sitting at dinner time visiting with Dorothy, Bernie and Margaret – those moments meant a lot to me and remind me of where my journey here began.

What advice would you give to other young adults?

Don’t limit yourself with your own thoughts.  Just start doing.

What are you most excited about as you start this next chapter at college?

I am excited to start learning classes I want to learn!  I am also looking forward to creating my own schedule and building new friendships.

What is one goal you hope to accomplish over the next 5 years?

I hope that in the next 5 years I have made myself a valuable person and laid out a foundation for my future family.

If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be and why?

Honest, driven and kind.  I believe honesty builds trust, being driven helps me achieve my goals, and kindness is something that everyone deserves. 
I strive to treat others with respect.

What motivates you to keep working toward your goals, even when things get challenging?

My motivation is my family.  I always think back on them when things are challenging.

What’s something that your coworkers might be surprised to know about you?

I was very angry at first training with the Army.

Where do you see yourself after earning your PharmD degree?

For now the plan is to possibly commission with my degree into the Army Medical Corps and do an officer active duty contract as a pharmacist.

Is there anything you would like to say to your co-workers before you head off to college?

Love the residents!

Good Luck on your next adventure, Jhon!  The Lodge family is cheering you on!