Sunny Side Up: How Makwana Became the Brightest Star in VCU’s Pharmacy Class of 2025

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 900 Views

Sunny Makwana, a first-generation college student from Abingdon, Virginia, has evolved from an introverted newcomer to a leader at Virginia Commonwealth University's School of Pharmacy. As he is set to graduate with a Pharm.D. and pursue his doctoral research, Makwana's path is one of per...

Background and Early Life

Grew up in Abingdon, a tight-knit Indian community but otherwise not very diverse small town.
First-generation college student whose parents immigrated to the United States from India.
Initially pushed by parents toward medicine but developed interest in pharmacy through undergraduate lab experience at Virginia Tech.

Academic Background and Accomplishments

Received a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from Virginia Tech.
Enrolled in VCU’s Pharm.D./Ph.D. dual degree program, earning his Pharm.D. in 2025 and continuing toward a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences.
Focuses doctoral research on respiratory pharmaceutics, particularly how inhaled medications affect the lungs and body.

Leadership and Campus Involvement

Broke out of his shell at VCU, becoming class president in his second year and later serving as student body president.
Gave a speech at the School of Pharmacy's Galen Society donor event, overcoming public speaking fear.
Active participant in the SCIE Ambassador Program, advocating for inclusion on the medical campus.

Personal Growth and Impact

Evolved from a self-proclaimed introvert to a confident campus leader, now feeling at ease approaching strangers and leading peers.
Acknowledged by faculty, such as Dean Kelechi "K.C." Ogbonna, for his work ethic, proficiency, and selfless leadership.
Friends and peers comment on his incredible transformation since coming to VCU.

Future Plans

Will remain at VCU to work towards a Ph.D., with research goals in respiratory pharmacokinetics and drug delivery.

Hopes to contribute to developments in inhaled medication therapies.

Source: VCU News, LinkedIn announcement

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