"I grew up garnet and black. I am a fourth-generation graduate of USC…"
Growing up with Gamecock pharmacist parents, Sam Glenn (2020 Pharm.D.) was well-versed in what it meant to work in retail pharmacy. It wasn’t until a visit to campus that he learned of the roles pharmacists can play in clinical settings. Since graduating during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam has completed a post-graduate rotation and started a new role with Bon Secours St. Francis in Greenville, South Carolina.
Tell us about what you do:
After pharmacy school, I completed by PGY1 residency at Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown hospital in Greenville, SC. Afterward, I worked at Prisma Health- Upstate for 18 months, during which time I passed by BCPS exam. Since then, I have taken a new role at Bon Secours St. Francis Eastside Hospital.
Why did you choose the University of South Carolina?
I grew up garnet and black. I am a fourth generation graduate of USC and spent my childhood walking around campus and going to football games. The University of South Carolina was, and is, always home.
How did you originally get interested in your field?
Both of my parents are pharmacists (both also USC grads) — but they work in retail. So I knew about pharmacy from an early age, but I didn’t learn about the existence of clinical pharmacy until I went on my first 'official' visit to USC in high school.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
I love spending time outdoors. I am an avid hunter and fisherman, but I also enjoy camping, hiking, and golf.
Who has been a mentor to you?
I had the privilege of having both Dr. Justo and Dr. Cox on rotation during my P4 year. Both are incredible preceptors who challenged me to perform at my best. I highly recommend taking their rotation if you think you want to pursue a residency after graduation.
What activities were you involved with in school?
I was involved in many organizations and also was a TA for Ms. Kathy during my P2 year. In any spare time left after organization meetings and studying, I went to USC football, baseball, and basketball games.
What is your advice for current students / future pharmacy professionals?
If you want to pursue residency, take difficult acute care rotations early in your P4 year, so you get a taste of what residency can look like. Also look for opportunities to get involved with research in pharmacy school. Getting an early taste for the process of publication will help you in residency.
What is your favorite memory from pharmacy school?
While it was not funny at the time, during my P2 year my class particularly struggled with the Fluids and Electrolytes exam. There were rumors of a plaque being made to commemorate the lowest average exam score in the history of the College of Pharmacy, but I never saw it.
What would your superpower be?
I think the best superpower would be to stop time. Sometimes you need a few minutes to get caught up or to look up the answer to some random question. Other times you just need a nap.
Topics: Alumni Programs, Meet Our Alumni