Hieu Cooney

Why I do What I do:

I am an instructor because I am passionate about the field I’m in, and I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experiences with others. I have been teaching pharmacy technician students since 2001. I taught and trained in the traditional classroom setting for about 12 years, but more recently I have been teaching online. I enjoy teaching online because it allows me to continue serving students while working from home. Teaching online has opened other doors for me and today I enjoy a full-time laptop lifestyle from anywhere in the world.

Latest Accomplishment:

I received my business license and will soon be able to offer my online course to students. I had a vision last year to develop an online program which would help people to become pharmacy technicians and for pharmacy technicians to prepare for the certification exam. I am now one step closer to making that vision a reality.

Most Memorable Experience as a Pharmacy Technician:

My most memorable experience as a pharmacy technician was when I was given the opportunity to show a patient how to use their diabetic testing supplies. I was working in a retail pharmacy at the time when I filled a patient’s prescription for a glucose monitor, test strips, and lancets. The pharmacist took me aside and asked if I ever used these supplies before. I had not, so he showed me what to do with them. He said he wanted to train me so I could share this with the patient. After the pharmacist consulted with the patient, I took her into the back room and showed her how to test her blood sugar. She was happy and grateful.

Why I Became Certified?

I took the certification exam to find out what it was all about. I was teaching pharmacy technicians at the time and my organization wanted the students to take the certification exam as part of their program. I studied and was able to pass the exam on my first try. I am now an advocate for all pharmacy technicians to become certified.

My Passion Outside of Work or Hobbies:

I am an aspiring entrepreneur and have been trying to build an online business. Wealth building and doing what I can to secure my financial future has become sort of a side hustle for me. I also enjoy fishing. My husband and I have a boat that we take on the Sacramento River whenever we can. A couple of years ago my husband caught a 48” striper. Ever since we’ve been trying to catch another keeper like that one again.

Latest Book Read:

“Secrets of the Millionaire Mind” by T. Harv Eker

Advice to Up-and-Coming Technicians:

Get certified if you’re not already. Being a certified pharmacy technician has opened so many doors for me. I am confident it can do the same for you.