Each Tuesday, The Citizen features a health professional from the Finger Lakes community in The Banks: This week, we spotlight pharmacist Jessica Lynn Baker.

Q. What is the most rewarding part of your job?

A. I love patient interaction, which is why I chose retail pharmacy instead of institutional.

Q. What is the most challenging?

A. Insurance companies and the 12-hour days.

Q. When you're sick, would you want someone like you to be your pharmacist?

A. Of course, we strive for quick and courteous - but accurate - service.

Q. What is the best piece of advice you could give someone to stay healthy?

A. Well-balanced diet and exercise.

Q. What's the most common misconception you hear from patients?

A. It is hard for patients to understand that what we do takes time. I understand the impatience because a) you feel rotten and b) you just waited 30 to 60 minutes at the doctor's office.

Q. If you weren't in the health care field, what career or field would you do?

A. I would stay at home and help Troy (her fiance) get his business off the ground.

Q. For someone considering a career like yours, what advice would you offer?

A. It takes a lot of dedication. School is long and hard, as well as your work days once you've graduated.

Q. What's your ideal cure for the common cold?

A. Rest, liquids and chicken soup.

Q. In your opinion, which medical TV show is most realistic? Which is your favorite?

A. I don't watch a lot of TV, but “Grey's Anatomy” is my favorite.

Jessica Lynn Baker

Age: 26

Hometown: Boonville

Family: Fiance, Troy Earl; and our Great Dane, Tiny

Education: Five and a half years at Albany College of Pharmacy

Occupation: Supervising Pharmacist, Eckerd Drugs, 319 Genesee St., Auburn

Hobbies: Hunting, camping, crafts and gardening