"Every experience is important - You never know who may call you down the road..."
University of South Carolina alumnus Michael Bedenbaugh (2012 Pharm.D., MBA) saw his career come full circle when he became Director of Pharmacy Services Intramed Plus, the same place he had worked as an intern during pharmacy school. Looking back, he sees that each job along the way offered a valuable learning experience.
Tell us about what you do:
Intramed Plus is a recognized leader in infusion services in South Carolina. In my role I work with a multidisciplinary team to enable patients to receive infusion therapies at home and or in our clinic based setting.
How did you originally get interested in your field?
Growing up with my mom being a pharmacist and around numerous other pharmacists, I was always drawn to this profession. Looking back at it I am certainly happy with how it has turned out to this point.
I worked at Intramed Plus as an intern during pharmacy school. Following a residency and a few stints in hospital-based practice (i.e. Pharmacy Administration), I returned to Intramed in my current role. To me, these transitions show that every internship, rotation, or experience is important - you never know who may call you down the road and ask you if you are interested in a career on their team!
Why did you choose the University of South Carolina?
I chose to pursue my graduate education at UofSC due to the opportunity to obtain my Pharm.D. and MBA concurrently from two well-regarded colleges. An added bonus was all of the close friends I made during my time at UofSC - several of whom I remain close with today.
Who has been a mentor to you?
I have been blessed with numerous mentors in life who have helped me achieve success in different ways; these include my Irmo High School soccer coach Phil Savitz, as well as professional mentors who have been with me throughout my professional journey, including Rafael Saenz and Varner Richards.
To me finding someone who can coach you is critical; however, most importantly is you being open to the feedback they provide, even if you don’t like it.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I have been blessed with many accomplishments in my career to this point; however, likely my biggest accomplishment occurred recently when my wife Julie and I welcomed our daughter Katherine to the world!
What is your advice for current students / future pharmacy professionals?
Pharmacy is an exceptional career path. To find success, however, today’s students must ask questions, take advantage of the opportunities presented to them, and be comfortable stepping outside of the traditional roles and career paths. This is a unique time for pharmacy, health care and the world in general. Those who do these things will not only deliver exceptional patient care in new and unique ways, but they will likely find a rewarding and fulfilling career in the process.
What do you do to relax?
During any spare time, I enjoy sneaking in a round of golf with friends, tailgating and cheering for my favorite college football team - and during the off season I enjoy relaxing with a great pour of bourbon!
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
If I was hosting a dream dinner party, I would invite Julian Van Winkle. Hopefully if he was able to attend, he would bring some of his father or grandfather’s work to share with all in attendance.
What is your favorite memory from pharmacy school at the University of South Carolina?
To me, the best memories from pharmacy school are the friends that I met and the times that we shared during our academic journey.