Melissa graduated from Deakin University with a Bachelor of Vision Science and Master of Optometry in 2020, and has worked in regional Queensland since. She started her career in corporate practice, before working as a clinical optometrist in ophthalmology clinics in 2022. She enjoys seeing a wide variety of patients, with particular interest in glaucoma and dry eye. She enjoys spending time at the beach, running with her dog, and watching true crime documentaries.