Pharmacy Alumni Recounts a Last-Minute Decision That Led Him to ISU

Idaho State University alumnus Cary Shimizu, Class of 1975, found his way to the then College of Pharmacy at the last minute, and it changed his life. 

After both he and his cousin were admitted to the University of Arizona, a stronger pull toward ISU drew him in. Two weeks before classes began, he called ISU to see if enrollment was still possible. Staff moved quickly, and one day before classes started, Shimizu officially became a Bengal. He left Los Angeles for Pocatello and moved into Graveley Hall.

The transition was striking. Coming from Los Angeles, Shimizu was immediately struck by the warmth and friendliness of the Pocatello community. At ISU he found a close-knit environment where he built lasting relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff.

His path into pharmacy began decades earlier. In 1945 his uncle, Gary Kikawa, opened Rexall Drugstores in Los Angeles. The store quickly became a neighborhood hub, with a soda fountain in front and a pharmacy in back. Shimizu watched as his uncle skillfully filled prescriptions and cared for customers, an example that left a lasting impression and inspired his own career.

After graduation, Shimizu secured an internship with a local pharmacy and eagerly awaited the moment he would become officially licensed. When he received his California pharmacist license (number 30013) he could hardly contain his excitement. He shared it with anyone who would listen.

More than 50 years later Shimizu looks back on his time at Idaho State with deep appreciation and is certain of one thing: he found the right place. He believes he wouldn’t have been as happy anywhere else.