Following graduation from Sydney University in 1992, Melissa secured a position in private practice on the NSW Central Coast. Melissa worked there for 18 months working predominantly with companion animals. She then obtained a position in the Hunter Valley working with companion animals and on a large Equine Stud. From there Melissa returned to Sydney University in 1996 where she completed a mixed practice internship and obtained a Graduate Diploma of Veterinary Clinical Studies. After this Melissa worked as a locum around NSW for 12 months, then obtained employment in Dubbo in 1998 at a mixed practice where she worked for 6 years.

In 2005 Melissa moved to Wagga Wagga with her husband and small children. She obtained part time work at CSU coordinating the Clinical Extramural Studies program for the Veterinary Students. Melissa worked in this position on a casual basis for 12 years and has now joined CSU part time as Lecturer in Veterinary Science – Clinical Extramural Studies Coordinator. Melissa prepares students for their self-selected clinical placements at the end of 3^rd and 4^th year, debriefs students after their placements in small groups and marks their assessments for these placements. Melissa also coordinates a final year subject which aligns with her interest in teaching and preparing veterinary students for the workplace.