Our Admissions team is here to guide you through every step of the application process — from recruitment to matriculation. Whether you’re just starting to explore our program or preparing to apply, we’re happy to answer questions and share resources as you take your next step toward a career in pharmacy. We can be reached at pharmd@health.ucsd.edu.
To learn about our recruiting events or scheduling a campus tour, visit our Connect with Us page.
Rabia Atayee, PharmD (she/her/hers)
Associate Dean for Admissions and Recruitment
Her role: Leads the strategy that attracts, supports and selects a strong pool of prospective students for our Pharm.D. program
Why she loves her job: The opportunity to take care of patients, lead research efforts, and, most importantly, teach and mentor future pharmacists
What she does for fun: Hiking, paddle boarding, yoga, trying new restaurants and overall enjoying all that San Diego has to offer with great weather and lots of activities
Christine Cartlidge (she/her/hers)
Admissions and Recruitment Specialist
pharmd@health.ucsd.edu
Her role: Oversees the admissions process for prospective students, including advising applicants to the PharmD and 7-year BS/PharmD programs, providing application guidance and managing the onboarding of all incoming students.
Why she loves her job: Allows me to honor the unique story behind every applicant and provide individualized support
What she does for fun: Makes music with a local choir, plays piano and stays active by exploring San Diego’s many vibrant neighborhoods
Sarah Hole
Admissions and Recruitment Coordinator
pharmd@health.ucsd.edu
Her role: Oversees the recruitment of prospective students, including leading outreach at recruitment events, advising applicants to the Pharm.D. program and organizing on-site campus tours.
Why she loves her job: Connecting with aspiring pharmacy students and guiding them along one of the most meaningful academic journeys of their lives. Being part of their first steps toward a career in health care is truly rewarding!
What she does for fun: Adventuring around San Diego with her husky Luna, hunting for the best honey cappuccino, paddle boarding, traveling, getting lost in good books, and taking long, happy walks on the beach
Anthony O'Donoghue, PhD
Faculty Director for Admissions and Recruitment
Admissions Committee Co-Chair
His role: Provides strategic leadership and oversight for the admissions process, ensuring a fair, thorough and holistic review of program candidates
Why he loves his role with Admissions: Recruiting and mentoring the next generation of world-class scientists and future pharmacists is deeply fulfilling
What he does for fun: Stays active with my family and enjoys biking, hiking, snorkeling and camping
Ashley Feist, PharmD
Admissions Committee Co-Chair
Her role: Provides strategic leadership and oversight for the admissions process, ensuring a fair, thorough and holistic review of program candidates.
Why she loves her job: Helping identify and support future pharmacists committed to compassionate, innovative patient care
What she does for fun: Spends time with family and friends, cooks, reads and cheers on her kids in their various activities