Just recently I decided to interview one of the essentials on Philadelphia University’s campus, Melissa Mullin. I spoke to Melissa about her position here in PhilaU’s Academic Success Center and how her job is a vital piece to our student body. Melissa is a PhilaU employee that is here for all of us students to benefit from, whether it be guidance and aid in our school years or helpful tips for our future.
Melissa is the Assistant Director of Learning Services. She calls her office the “one-stop-shop for all students who want to get the most out of their academic experience.” She took this position in May of 2015, making it almost time to celebrate her two-year anniversary on our campus. While interviewing Melissa, she spoke to me about the enjoyment she gets from helping others and offering resources to students so they have the ability to be as successful as possible in their academic careers. She also informed me of how long this passion has been with her. She received her Master’s Degree at West Chester University for Higher Education Counseling and Student Affairs and states “every other job I had prior to PhilaU has been working with students to help them persist and graduate.”
Though many students understand that Melissa and her team are on campus to help, many don’t ever fully come to the realization of how great the benefits are or just how helpful they can be to everyone. Melissa informed me about the great resources this office has from tutoring to advising. This office is also the home of all first year and transfer advisors, PhilaU employees that Melissa encourages all eligible students to see so they are able to get the best from there academic and future careers. Melissa also stated that she will go to far lengths just to assure that all tutoring needs are met. The option to submit a request for a particular course does exist and Melissa assures that she will “do everything in my power to either find you a tutor or inquire assistance in a different way.” Melissa also encourages all students to use the office regularly as this free service can promote all learning and is just not for when one is struggling.
Finally, Melissa informed me that anyone on campus is welcome to schedule an appointment with her to learn more about organizational skills and time management. She encourages all to make appointments with Academic Success whether it be through Starfish or in person. If you would like to make an appointment with Melissa she can be contacted at mullinm@philau.edu.