MELISSA P. LATSON
Raleigh, nc ***** Cellular: 240-***-**** **************@*****.***
SUMMARY
Expert knowledge in Career Advising with proven career planning, leadership development, research, networking, and office management, for over 10 years. Focused on utilizing my rich experience to guide individuals through king decisions about their careers, through analyzing current employment trends.
RELEVANT SKILLS
Career Planning
Interview Skills Instruction
Problem-Solving
Genuine interest in other people
Observational and Listening
Ability to interpret information
Critical thinking
Teamwork
Dependability
Time-management
WORK EXPERIENCE
Business Education Teacher: Sanderson High School, Raleigh NC: November 2021- December 2022
Increased WorkKeys results by 13% from previous year by assisting with workshops and tutoring sessions, for students to better understand WorkKeys assessments
Instructed coursework in Marketing and Business; Certified over 50 students in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint using TestOut
Administered the PreACT to over 400 students; Facilitated DECA (Distributive Educational Clubs of America), the business, marketing co-curricular career and technology student competitive test which is supported by NCDPI through our curriculum and the federal government
Maintained documentation on educational services and tracked student’s progress to gauge overall success of learning programs
Long-term Substitute Teacher: D.C. Public Schools: 2014 – June 2021
Assisted with Math and English unit using new Common Core lessons and activities which increased by 11%
Input daily attendance logs, prepare class materials: English, Math, Art, Music, Computer Keyboarding and basic Spanish using online resources
Supervised work that has been set in accordance with school policy and coordinating with teaching staff with regards to work set for a class
Provided meaningful instructions to students so that they understand the subject matter and ensure they understand the skills required for scheduled lessons
Administrative Assistant: Temp Agencies, D.C./Virginia: 2005 – 2014
Drove 10% increase of customers by proven record with organization, both television and radio tactics
Used proficient customer service skills, interpersonal communications to assist employees with company policies, benefits, and procedure related questions
Effective in executed meeting scheduling, preparation of agendas, and travel arrangement
Connected with clients and their staff to solve their problems in person, on the phone and by email
EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, COLLEGE PARK, MD
BS in Business Administration/Management May 2014
UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (UDC), WASHINGTON, D.C.
Office Technology – Certificate December 2014
Certified Grant Writer – High TechMinds Multimedia, LLC, Lanham MD, December 2022
Certified Loan Signing Agent – National Notary Association, November 2022
Grant Writer Certificate – Wake Tech Community College, Raleigh NC, August 2022
Notary Public – Wake County NC, February 2022-April 2027
Department of Family Services Initiatives, Prince Georges County Maryland – Certificate of Completion training for Safe Dates Program (Adolescent Dating Abuse Prevention Curriculum) 2018
LEADERSHIP VOLUNTEER
MEL Development Center, Inc. serving Washington, DC and Raleigh NC
Mentor/Tutor 2011-Present
Developed career and educational plans based on individual needs; Responsible for developing programs and strategies to address the identified needs of the youth; Encourages leadership communication, participation and motivation; Build internal/external relationships by planning and participating in activities together. Facilitate development sessions on teleconferences and Zoom.
River Oaks Board of Directors, Raleigh, NC
Advisor/Grounds and Common Area Maintenance 2021-Present
Obtain competitive bids for contracted services and make recommendation for contract selection; Interaction and close management with landscape to ensure maintenance standards for property; Develop a long-range plan for the organization; define a strategy and a time frame for achievement of goals; Avoid any conflicts of interest and situations that would compromise the principles of the organization.
BUILD, Washington, DC
Mentor 2016-2017
Established trustworthy relationships through respectful communication; Worked with teacher to define student’s strength to prepare for areas of growth; Supported high school students with pitching to funders to launch their own business; Empowering them to resolve current issues and to develop coping strategies for their career.
AWARDS
2018 Received Plaque “Healing Lives Inside Tour” – Issued by Zero Tolerance, Rocky Mount NC
2014 Certificate of Appreciation for Valuable Contributions - Issued by Cesar Chavez Public Charter Middle School, D.C.