"You must always have a challenge in your life that makes you keep growing ..."
Following in the career footsteps of her great grandfather, UofSC alumna Melanie Lobel graduated with a bachelor's degree in pharmacy in 1989 and Pharm.D. in 1999. She later combined her pharmacy expertise with an M.D. from the Medical University of South Carolina. Lobel works at the intersection of these disciplines, serving as a consultant psychiatrist for Lexington Medical Center.
Tell us about what you do:
Currently, I work full-time seeing adult patients admitted to the hospital, assisting with diagnosis of psychiatric disorders and medication management.
I teach classes for clinicians interested in additional psychiatric training, including nurse practitioner and physician assistant students. They cover both diagnosis and psychopharmacology. There is a huge need and most providers get limited training in these areas.
How did you originally get interested in your field?
There was a lot of opportunity to use my pharmacy background in Psychiatry and I liked the “detective work” that is required to make a diagnosis in this population.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I have assisted in growing our psychiatric service at the hospital from 1 to 4 full-time psychiatrists over the last 11 years. We now cover the Emergency Department, a nearly 500 bed hospital, and a nursing home.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I actually liked mixing up lotions and masks as a kid and thought I would be a cosmetologist.
What brought you to UofSC and what do you love most about this community?
I love the traditions here and the loyalty of the fan base. I received an excellent education at the University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy.
If you could go back in time, where would you go?
If I could go back in time, I'd return to my roots in Italy to see where my family originated – especially my grandfather’s side of the family. My great grandfather was a pharmacist in Italy who came to America in the late 1800’s.
What do you do to relax?
Read or watch Netflix with my cat, Bernadette “Bernie” at my side and a cozy blanket.
What is your favorite memory from Pharmacy School at the University of South Carolina?
Our trip to Eli Lilly headquarters in Indianapolis was amazing, especially the animal and research labs.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
You’re in charge of your own happiness.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Andrea Bocelli, Bruno Mars and Adele, as I love music.
What is your advice for current students / future pharmacy professionals?
You must always have a challenge in your life that makes you keep growing, either professionally or personally.
What would your superpower be?
Arctic blasts that freeze you in your tracks 😊