Meet Brandi Dahl, PharmD

Brandi Dahl, PharmD, is the newest faculty member in Pharmacy Practice. Originally from Oxford, Kansas, she recently completed her PGY2 Pharmacotherapy Specialty Residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Pharmacy (TTUHSC SOP) and Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo, Texas. Dahl received her Doctor of Pharmacy from TTUHSC SOP in May of 2017. She is actively involved in the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, TTUHSC SOP Alumni Association, and American Society of Health-System Pharmacists at both a state and local level. Dahl’s current practice interests include ambulatory care, transitions of care, and academia. 

Why did you want to pursue pharmacy? 
BD: Growing up, I watched my grandparents age and struggle with managing medications. As they acquired more doctors and a longer medication list it only became more challenging. I viewed pharmacist as a knowledgeable and accessible healthcare provider that could help patients and caregivers by communicating key aspects of care.

What is the most misunderstood aspect of the pharmacist profession and how do they make an impact in their field? 
BD:I think many understand how pharmacists interact with patients but I wish more knew how valuable pharmacists can be as part of the healthcare team. In my short experience as a pharmacist, the relationships and collaboration with other providers have been extremely rewarding and impactful for patient care. 

What brought you to Gatton? 

BD: Initially, I was interested in the focus on rural healthcare, underserved communities, and interprofessional education. After meeting a few faculty, I was even more impressed by the student-centered, welcoming culture at Gatton. I am excited to work in a place that focuses on the aspects of education and patient care that are important to me.

What advice would you give to a graduating student? 
BD: Set your goals high and be creative in pursuing your dreams. The potential you have as a pharmacist is hard to imagine after years of focusing on becoming a PharmD. Keep learning and working towards progress in the profession but never lose site of the value in the little things you do everyday.

What is your greatest accomplishment?
BD: I am most humbled and motivated by the time I spent working at a camp for children with type 1 diabetes and a free clinic providing chronic disease management during pharmacy school and residency. I hope to find community efforts to pursue in my new East Tennessee home. 

What is your teaching philosophy? 
BD: I think enthusiasm and real-world perspective are important in teaching pharmacy practice. I hope to approach teaching with an upbeat style that is centered around the development of competence, character, and compassion.

What do you do in your free time? I love to be outdoors and spend time with my family, friends, and dogs. Recently, I have been learning how to play golf.

What is your last TV binge? This Is Us.

What books are on your nightstand? 
BD: The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right by Atul Gawande and When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. 

What’s a “weird” fact about yourself that many might not know? 
BD: I was on a livestock judging team in college! My undergraduate major was animal science and I actually worked for an animal health company for a year before starting pharmacy school.