Melissa Scallan

Melissa Scallan writes, speaks and advises on ways to successfully navigate life’s changes. She’s best known for Starting University (now in its third edition), the useful, reassuring and easy-to-read bestseller that’s helped thousands of students prepare for university in the UK.

As an adviser to UCAS, the UK's universities and colleges admissions service, Melissa's advice to students on making new friends and dealing with homesickness is shared on its website. And she was a panelist on one of UCAS’ most watched Facebook Live webinars (viewed over 60,000 times). Melissa delivers informative and reassuring talks to sixth form students, and their parents, about preparing for university and she speaks about the student experience at conferences, including Universities UK's Enhancing the Student Experience conference.

Her books are carefully researched and thoughtfully presented to prioritise the wellbeing of her readers. She blends practical, honest and clear advice with a kind, grounded and empathetic voice. Her guidance helps people feel less overwhelmed, assists them in making informed choices, and provides them with the tools, perspective and encouragement to move forward with confidence.

Melissa has a background in research and journalism and a master’s degree in psychology from the London School of Economics and Political Science.