JTC 25: Where Science Meets Compassion
Former biotech researcher discovers endless career paths, new home at School of Pharmacy
This story is part of the 2025 Journey to Commencement series, which celebrates the pinnacle of the academic year by highlighting University of ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ students and their outstanding academic and personal journeys from college student to college graduate.
When it came time to make a change, all paths led Emma Stough to the University of ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ .
Earning a bachelor's degree in biotechnology from Auburn University, the Gadsden, Alabama, native thought she wanted to go into research. After working in several laboratories, however, Stough realized that she needed more social interaction.
Stough found her way to Ole Miss through mutual friends. Her roommate at Auburn happened to know several pharmacists from Jackson, one of which is Susan McCoy, an alumna of the UM pharmacy school and executive director.
At McCoy's invitation, Stough toured the school. She then shadowed McCoy at the ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ Board of Pharmacy.
That solidified her decision.
"That was a big reason I came to Ole Miss," Stough said. "I also chose pharmacy because Ole Miss emphasizes how many different career paths you can take in pharmacy, whereas no other school of pharmacy that I visited really did that."
She will graduate with a bachelor's degree in pharmaceutical sciences in May.
She is still learning all the possibilities pharmacy has to offer but was inspired by a love of genetics from a young age.
"I love genetics," she said. "I just found it super interesting. Then, as I got older, I looked into how I could find a career path in that."
The senior has already begun experimenting with pharmacy careers. While balancing her academic load, she also works at in Oxford.
Emma Stough (right) celebrates receiving her white coat with her boyfriend, Garrett Owen. Submitted photo
Stough has a calming energy and is very intuitive, gentle and kind to patients, said Marti Nolan, pharmacy manager at Myers Apothecary.
"She has learned so much about compounding prescriptions and the pharmacy business as a whole," Nolan said.
Pharmacy has allowed Stough to combine the things she loves.
"There's a balance there, between loving the science part of everything, but also loving people," she said.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Stough put that people-focused approach into action through her involvement in her sorority, Delta Gamma, and by serving as an ambassador for her major.
James Stewart, associate professor of pharmacology, recognizes her genuine passion for learning, strong work ethic and intellectual curiosity.
"What sets her apart is her ability to grasp complex concepts quickly and apply them in meaningful ways," Stewart said. "She's not only academically gifted, but also a leader among her peers, always willing to help and engage in thoughtful discussions.
Stough's coworkers at Myers Apothecary are inspired by her.
"I really admire Emma for coming to a new state, new school, away from friends and family, and building her own community here," Nolan said. "That's a tough step for anyone, but she has done so gracefully."
As graduation approaches, Stough is already setting her sights on combining her scientific background with her newfound pharmaceutical knowledge and seeking a career in the pharmaceutical industry.
Top: After working as a biotech researcher, Emma Stough decided that she wanted to know more about patient care. Armed with a degree in pharmaceutical sciences, she is aiming for a career in the pharmaceutical industry. Photo by Srijita Chattopadhyay/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services
Emma Stough
Emma Stough (right) visits the University of ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ for the first time with her best friend and roommate from Auburn, Allison Carter. Carter introduced Stough to the School of Pharmacy through family friends. Submitted photo
Emma Stough (left) and some of her School of Pharmacy classmates attend the American Pharmacists Association annual meeting for the first time. Submitted photo
