What is POLA?
POLA is a week-long academy focused on the fundamentals of pharmacy ownership, leadership and self-awareness. The POLA curriculum is specifically designed to help prepare students and equip them with the tools they need to be successful independent pharmacy owners. All POLA attendees will prepare a team mini-business plan presentation utilizing best practices for competing in the NCPA Student Business Plan Competition. The NCPA Foundation is proud to be a supporter of this successful program. Looking for sponsorship opportunities? Click here. 
Who Can Come?
POLA is open to student pharmacists nationwide. Contact your NCPA Chapter Advisor or Dean of Student Affairs about applying to POLA. Applications are typically sent to all colleges in December/January each year.
When and where is POLA?
POLA is held on University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences campus in Little Rock, Arkansas.
POLA Curriculum Highlights
- What it takes to own a pharmacy
- How to write a real-world business plan and best practices for submitting a business plan to the NCPA Business Plan Competition
- Personal and professional development
- Self-awareness
- Importance of leadership in the pharmacy profession
How much does it cost to attend POLA?
Registration and tuition for POLA are free. All student meals are provided (free) during the academy, but students are responsible for their travel to and from Little Rock along with housing during their 5-day stay. POLA lodging is at a nearby UAMS affiliated hotel and can range from $40 to $75 per night, depending on if you are willing to share a multi-occupancy room or suite with other POLA attendees. Students are welcome to stay in alternate lodging but will be responsible for travel to and from the UAMS campus each day.
*** Please consider talking with your Dean or NCPA Chapter Advisor to see if they are willing to provide you with a travel/housing stipend to attend POLA.
For more information about POLA
For additional information, please visit POLA’s website.