Student Spotlight: David Ferguson, Class of 2027

 

 

A Journey Shaped by Excellence, Science, and Service 

The journey of students at Howard University College of Pharmacy continues to inspire the next generation of pharmacists—and possibly the next wave of innovative chemists. Meet David Ferguson, a Class of 2027 College of Pharmacy student, who is taking on academia and pharmacy care one patient at a time. 

Born in Indiana, and raised in the Caribbean, David attended high school at Bishop Michael Eldon School and was supported and inspired by his parents. David grew up in an environment that emphasized education, compassion, humility, discipline, and excellence with a father who is a physician and a mother who is a science professor now Dean of Faculty (University of The Bahamas-North). His parents consistently encouraged him to pursue greatness in whatever career path he chose, motivation that proved invaluable as he made pivotal decisions about his future. 

During his early education, David participated in speech competitions and science fairs that sharpened his critical thinking skills and deepened his passion for science. He went on to do Pre-Baccalaureate studies at Georgia Tech, and Taylor University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with honors, followed by a Master of Science in Chemistry from Indiana University–Bloomington. Through these experiences, David came to appreciate the importance of both acquiring knowledge and developing strong analytical skills. This realization sparked a desire to help other students do the same. 

Motivated to make complex scientific concepts more accessible, David began writing his first textbook in 2021, High School Chemistry for Everyone, followed by The New Chemist Company’s Bahamian Superheroes: High School Chemistry Book in 2024. These projects were especially meaningful, as they emerged during a difficult period for the Bahamas. Proceeds from the books were donated to support those affected by hurricane disasters, reflecting David’s commitment to service beyond the classroom. He also expanded his outreach by launching a podcast, The New Chemist now The STEAM Success Blueprint, using his platform to educate and engage a wider audience. Some notable guest speakers include, Dr. Robert Langer, Sc.D. (MIT Institute Professor)- 4-time guest,  Greg Zuckerman from The Wall Street Journal, Chancellor Gary May from UC Davis, Provost Raheem Beyah from Georgia Tech and Simar Bajaj from NYTimes. It has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The Nassau Guardian, and Georgia Tech’s Reddit. Check out his podcast here.  

Before beginning his studies at Howard University College of Pharmacy, David served as a Chemistry Lecturer at the University of the Bahamas, leaving a lasting impression on his students. Recognizing the need to further his education and expand his impact, he made the decision to pursue pharmacy with a focus on serving underrepresented communities. Acknowledging the existence of pharmacy deserts and the lack of accessible direct patient education, David became determined to address these gaps through patient-centered pharmaceutical care. 
 

Since arriving at the College of Pharmacy, David has embraced opportunities he may not have encountered elsewhere. His experiences include participating in advanced seminars, visiting pharmacy corporate headquarters, engaging in advocacy efforts, and conducting research. He was nominated twice for the Harvard University Society of Fellows Junior Fellowship, first in 2022 and again in 2025, and holds credentials as a Registered Scientist and Board-Certified Medical Affairs Specialist from the ACMA. He has also earned Full Membership in Sigma Xi (The Research Honor Society) and the Royal Society of Biology, and is a Full Member and Chartered Chemist Candidate of the Royal Society of Chemistry. For the past two years, he has worked as a CVS Pharmacy Intern, where he values the hands-on experience and the direct connections he builds with patients. 

 

When reflecting on his journey and frequent transitions, David emphasizes the importance of community, humility, strategy, hopeful realism, discipline, and faith. Building meaningful connections with people, even in moments of solitude, has been essential to his growth. As he stated, "Having a determined mindset, humility, good classmates and friends in all the places I’ve gone has really helped, and church has created a strong foundation for me.” While the path to becoming a pharmacist is demanding, sharing the journey with others makes the challenges more manageable. 
 

When asked how he continues to push forward while balancing so many responsibilities, David shared the following insights: 

“Accountability is important to me. You must commit to your decisions and see them through—especially when it comes to patient care. You have lives on the line.” 

“Take what’s in it for you, make your own decisions, and take advantage of every opportunity with confidence, because it all comes down to how you count.” 

 

When asked what advice he would give students as a professor, David offered the following guidance: 

“Be selective about the advice you take, because at the end of the day, you must make your own decisions—it’s your life. So, take advantage of every opportunity you have to learn while you grow and meet new people.” 

 

His last piece of piece of wisdom: 

“Approach everything with humility, curiosity, and consistency.” 
 

David continues to demonstrate a deep passion and unwavering commitment to the field of pharmacy. Through his dedication and hard work, he is poised to positively impact the lives of patients in need of compassionate, comprehensive care. At Howard University College of Pharmacy, he is taking meaningful steps toward shaping the future of the pharmacy profession.