ABOUT THE DIRECTOR

Melissa began tutoring over ten years ago.  This is her fifth year with
Expanding Abilities where she works as a full time tutor.  Melissa is a
natural teacher and teaching is what she loves to do.  She also relates well with young people having spent time as a camp counselor, recreation leader, driver’s education teacher, and gymnastics instructor.

Melissa earned her Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from UCLA.  Her course work included Calculus, Physics, and two years of Chemistry.  She also had plenty of biology classes, which were her favorite.  Upon completion of her degree, Melissa participated in an internship at the SEA Laboratory in Redondo Beach where marine biology was taught to inner-city youth.  She
was then promoted to Assistant Facilities Manager and also worked for
Expanding Abilities part-time.  She has now dedicated the majority of her
time to working with Expanding Abilities students and tutors to promote
learning and provide service to individuals throughout the Los Angeles Area.

Melissa grew up in the South Bay of Los Angeles and is an alumna of Bishop
Montgomery High School in Torrance.  In High School, Melissa took a full
course load every year including honors classes.  Overall, she completed 5
years of math and 4 years of science.  Through a lot of hard work, she
maintained a 4.0 average, graduated Summa Cum Laud, and went directly to
UCLA.

Melissa is a dedicated student of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in which she has
earned a purple belt and frequently participates in competition.  She enjoys
reading, traveling, walking her dogs at the beach, and spending time with
her family.