Passionate About Inspiring Teens To Achieve Their Academic and Career Goals

 

About Melissa Ryan, M.A.

 

For over three decades I’ve guided high-schoolers—many from high-poverty districts—into colleges where they flourish and into scholarships that lighten the load. As a counselor in both secondary and post-secondary settings, I’ve:

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• Advised thousands of students on college selection, essays, and aid packages, driving one of Alabama’s largest year-over-year jumps in college enrollment.

• Expanded opportunity: secured the A+ College Ready grant, growing AP offerings from one to nine courses and boosting participation to nearly one-third of the student body.

• Championed dual enrollment programs that became a state model.

• Elevated test performance through targeted ACT, SAT, and PSAT coaching that helped students—including my four sons—earn full-ride awards and National Merit honors.

• Bridged school and workforce: served on state workforce boards and directed the Youth Success program, translating labor-market insight into practical career guidance.

 

A frequent conference speaker and committed community volunteer, I bring equal parts data-driven strategy and heart for teens. Let’s turn your student’s potential into possibility!​