Melissa: Downey tutor

Certified Tutor

I am a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Advertising and Marketing Communications with Magna Cum Laude distinction; I focused on Public Relations, Entrepreneurship, and Event Planning. During my final year at FIT, I worked full-time at Viacom's BET Networks as a Corporate Communications Intern and was hired on as a Publicity Coordinator immediately following my graduation. I received three promotions in three years at the media powerhouse and as Lead Mentor with Viacom's UP Mentoring program, I guided young professionals on their own career journeys. Since leaving BET Networks, I have gone on to represent and counsel top business leaders, A-list celebrities, and a diverse range of talent and professionals in Business Communications; all while elevating others in my community through education.

While I have worked with students and mentees on a broad range of subjects, I am intensely passionate about English, Literature, Business, and all forms of Writing. I don't consider any student to be "struggling" rather, I work to boost their overall understanding and real-world application of subjects on which we collaborate. I love to learn and I feel learning is lifelong - it's important to me to meet students where they are in their educational journey and help them to move along with confidence.

Outside of work, I am a voracious reader. I also enjoy painting, writing, playing the piano, and creating fashion designs.