PROUD MEMBER OF:
ISCA: International School
Counselors Association
TSCA: Texas School
Counselors Association
Phi Kappa Lambda
Sigma Alpha Lota
IECA: Independent Educational
Consultants Association
ASCA: American School
Counselor Association
2025 Employee of
the Second Quarter
Melissa Wood, M.Ed.
College Consultant Director
Melissa Wood, M.Ed., pairs an unmatched understanding of school leadership with deep college admissions expertise as a College Consultant Director. Melissa holds a Master’s Degree in Education alongside rare, dual state credentials: a Texas Educator Certificate as a School Counselor and an official School Principal Certificate from the Texas Education Agency. A seasoned authority on Texas admissions, she has presented citywide workshops on applying to the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University. Her extensive leadership background includes presenting at the National Career Academy Coalition Conference and directing student leadership workshops for Mentor Connect through the Austin Youth Council.
Certifications held through the Texas Education Agency:
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Master's Degree in Education
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School Counselor Certification
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School Principal Certificate (TEA)
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All Level Music Education Certification
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Austin Youth Council leadership workshop facilitator (2025 & 2026) and citywide UT/A&M workshop presenter
Melissa has dedicated her entire career to public education, serving her campus community for over 23 years in a variety of impactful roles, including band director, College & Career Transition Coordinator, and Academic Guidance Counselor. For the past five years, she has served as a school counselor, where she has guided students through both academic planning and the highly competitive college admissions process.
Her expertise spans a wide range of student needs, from those exploring potential majors to those targeting highly selective universities across Texas and the nation, particularly in STEM fields. As a Transition Coordinator and Guidance Counselor, Melissa has successfully supported students in navigating rigorous academic pathways, including dual credit, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate programs, and Career & Technical Education tracks.
Melissa is also an experienced presenter at national education conferences. She presented “Building Career Academies” at the National Career Academy Coalition Conference in Las Vegas and “Leander High School Smaller Learning Communities: Rigor, Relevance, Relationships” at the National Career Academy Coalition Conference in Philadelphia. Her work reflects a deep commitment to designing programs that connect academic rigor with real-world relevance and strong student relationships.
A native Texan, Melissa resides north of Austin with her husband of 19 years. Since graduating from Sam Houston State University in 2001, she has built her life and career in the Austin area. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending time with family and friends on the golf course, traveling, and attending local sporting events. She is especially passionate about sharing her love of golf with both colleagues and students, often spending her free time out on the course.
“A very big thank you to Melissa who provided incredible support to my son throughout the journey of college applications. From the very beginning, she took the time to understand his interests, strengths, and goals, guiding him towards correct direction. Other team members also involved in advising him on crafting essays, short-essays, short questions answers etc. Essentially providing support customized to each University he is applying. Thanks to their dedication and personalized approach, my son already started getting acceptances from many schools, and we're truly grateful for their help in making this journey a smooth and positive experience."
Ankit P. (parent)