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Meet Our Writing Assistants

Val A.
Graduate Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Val. I am currently a graduate student in Monmouth’s Rhetoric and Writing Program. In my free time, you can find me reading, journaling, or listening to music. I’m really excited to work at Writing Services and help students strengthen their writing skills!

Headshot of Val A.

Faith B.
Faculty Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Faith. I am currently a graduate student in Monmouth’s Creative Writing M.A./MFA program and a graduate research assistant in the English Department. I received my B.A. in English from Thomas Edison State University. Aside from being a writer, I am also an amateur dog trainer, herpetoculturist, and all-around lover of animals. If I have free time, you can probably find me hiking a trail somewhere with my dog, Taurus. I believe that every student deserves to be confident in their writing, and I am excited to work with you to help you achieve that!

Photo of Writing Assistant Faith B.

Prof. Cavallo
Faculty Writing Assistant

I received my M.A. in English from Monmouth University, and I’m currently enrolled in our new MFA Creative Writing program. I’ve spent the last two summers tutoring with Monmouth’s EOF program, and I’ve been teaching composition courses for five years (EN 101 & 102). My favorite thing about teaching composition is connecting with my students through their writing and helping them grow as both writers and thinkers. In turn, I’ve found that I learn quite a bit from them! I’m looking forward to my third year tutoring for Writing Services. In my free time I can be found photographing wildlife, pets, and concerts, as well as working on my first collection of creative nonfiction personal essays, and playing clarinet in local concert bands.

Photo of Professor Cavallo

Prof. Connelly
Faculty Writing Assistant

I received my M.A. in English from Monmouth University, and I’m currently enrolled in our new MFA Creative Writing program. I’ve spent the last two summers tutoring with Monmouth’s EOF program, and I’ve been teaching composition courses for five years (EN 101 & 102). My favorite thing about teaching composition is connecting with my students through their writing and helping them grow as both writers and thinkers. In turn, I’ve found that I learn quite a bit from them! I’m looking forward to my third year tutoring for Writing Services. In my free time I can be found photographing wildlife, pets, and concerts, as well as working on my first collection of creative nonfiction personal essays, and playing clarinet in local concert bands.

Photo of Professor Conelly

Lauren D.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Lauren and I am studying English with a concentration in Creative Writing at Monmouth University. I recently transferred from Pratt Institute’s 2D Animation program, and I’m currently working to publish the first novel in my debut Fantasy series. I’ve been employed as a teacher’s assistant and editorial assistant for three years at Project Write Now, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organiAshlzation, and I would love to bring my skillset to support you and your writing process. Aside from being a novelist and illustrator, I love going on adventures, reviewing books and movies, following astrological transits, and picking up new hobbies each year. Looking forward to working with you!

Lauren headshot

Caroline D.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Caroline and I am a sophomore at Monmouth University. Along with being a Writing Assistant, I am also a Resident Assistant at a freshman dorm on campus. I am a member of the sorority Alpha Omicron Pi and a student in the Honors School. I chose to be a Writing Assistant because I have a passion for writing. I look forward to helping students feel confident in their writing and submit work that they are proud of.

Caroline D.

Zafria D.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Zafira, and I have just transferred to Monmouth after completing my associate’s degree at Brookdale Community College. I am a junior studying English and Secondary Education. I really enjoy reading or listening to short stories and novels in my free time, as well as playing on my guitar and bass. I am also interested in environmental science as well as political science, so I try to stay updated on current events relating to those subjects. I think that strengthening one’s skills as a writer benefits any career path that they may choose in the future, and I am really excited to work with anyone who may need help in the writing center this year (regardless of the topic)!

Zafria D.

Charlotte E.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Charlotte and I am a senior at Monmouth, majoring in English with a Concentration in Creative Writing. In my free time, I enjoy reading, writing poetry and short stories, spending time with my family and my dog, Tootsie, going on walks, and dancing. I am so excited for another great year with Writing Services, and to use my deep passion for writing to help students further cultivate their creative palette and unlock outlets for powerful self-expression and discovery!

Olivia F.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Olivia, and I am a sophomore English and Secondary Education major. When I’m not doing homework, I’m either reading or playing Animal Crossing on my Nintendo Switch. I love writing and I am excited to help others build their skills and feel confident in what they create

Olivia Frew - MU Writing Assistant

Bailey F.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Bailey and I am currently a junior at Monmouth University. I’m studying Communications with a concentration in public relations and journalism. I also have a minor in Interactive Media. I am the Digital Content Creator for Monmouth’s chapter of the PRSSA and I also write for Monmouth’s student-run newspaper, The Outlook. I’ve always had a passion for writing and look forward to working with others to improve their writing skills!

Breanna G.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Breanna and I’m currently an English major with three minors in Creative Writing, Animation, and Art. I am the treasurer and assistant editor for the Monmouth Review and staff writer for The Outlook. When I am not drowning in schoolwork, you can find me buried in a book, writing stories, playing The Sims 4, watching anime, or just relaxing with my two dogs. Writing is one of my passions and I am excited to work with students in improving their writing skills and helping them find their voices!

Photo of Breanna G.

Prof. Hansen
Faculty Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Adrienne Hansen. I am a tenured sixth grade Language Arts teacher and an Adjunct Professor for the Department of Curriculum & Instruction in the School of Education. From Monmouth University, I earned my B.A., in English and Education and a Master of Science in Education: Reading Specialist Degree. In addition, I earned Post-Masters Degrees in Supervision and Teaching Students with Disabilities. I first started as a Peer Writing Assistant in 2007 as an undergraduate student. After being hired as an Adjunct in 2015, I eagerly joined the staff as a Faculty Writing Assistant.

Photo of Professor Hansen

Anna H.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi there! My name is Anna and I am currently a Junior here at Monmouth. I am majoring in English and Literature with minors in Criminal Justice and History. With all that I am also working on an undergraduate thesis with the University’s Departmental Honors program. In my spare time I like to read, write short stories, listen to podcasts, and play Dungeons and Dragons with my friends. I have a passion for writing and enjoy helping others learn the tricks and tips I’ve learned in my college journey. I am eager to meet you and assist you in Writing Services!

Photo of Anna H., Writing Assistant

Kaylee J.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Kaylee and I am currently a sophomore double majoring in both English and Elementary Education. I hope to also attain an endorsement in TSD and work with students with disabilities in the future. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, art, astrology, and traveling. I am so excited to work in the writing center this semester and look forward to working with you!

Kaylee J - Writing Assistant

Peyton Skye M.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Peyton Skye. I am a sophomore here at Monmouth majoring in Psychology. I’ve always had an inclination toward writing, specifically, I have an affinity for creative fiction. When I’m not in classes (or doing homework), I enjoy hiking, playing video games, reading, and most frequently, going to concerts! I love helping people, so I’m really looking forward to working in Writing Services and assisting my peers! 

Peyton Skye headshot

Melissa M.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Melissa, and I am currently a sophomore at Monmouth. I am a Social Work major aspiring to work in the field of child welfare after graduation. One of my favorite things to do in my free time is to read on the beach (when the weather is warm, of course). As a future social worker, I have a passion for helping others, and I look forward to helping others improve their writing skills here at Writing Services!

Melissa, Writing Assistant

Erin M.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Erin. I am a junior at Monmouth University majoring in Secondary English Education. I have always had a passion for writing that has only been strengthened by Monmouth University’s incredible English department. In my free time, when I am not reading or writing, I love to sing and listen to music. I also have an innate love for teaching and helping others, so I am looking forward to guiding you to become an effective and confident writer!

Erin M

Zachary M.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Zach, and this is my second semester since transferring to Monmouth. I’m currently majoring in English with a Concentration in Creative Writing but had previously majored in Design. I enjoy writing stories and reading comics or manga in my free time. I hope that by working for Writing Services that I might be able to help someone gain confidence in their own writing like someone did for me.

Zachary M

Prof. Puglisi
Faculty Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Jenna. I received my M.A. and B.A. in English from Monmouth University. I’m currently enrolled in the M.F.A. Creative Writing program. Throughout my graduate studies, I’ve been a Teaching Assistant for multiple courses, and I previously served as Writing Services’ Graduate Assistant. When I’m not reading or working on my manuscript, I can be found at the beach or a concert. I’m looking forward to helping students strengthen their unique voices and writing styles!

Jenna Puglisi, Graduate Writing Assistant

Colette Q.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Colette and I am a M.A. student on the Criminal Justice, Intelligence Analyst track. In January 2023, I graduated a semester early with my B.A. in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. Throughout my time at Monmouth, I have utilized the Writing Services to not only produce better papers, but to improve my writing abilities. I look forward to offering writing instructions on a one-to-one basis to students at every level, of every major, and at every stage of the writing process! 

Collete Q

Meghan R.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi everyone! My name is Meghan R. and I am a junior majoring in English and Secondary Education with a minor in Journalism. I am aiming to have a career in editing or publishing so Writing Services is the perfect pitstop along the way! In my free time, I love listening to music, going to concerts, reading, and watching movies. I look forward to working with all of you and hope to see you at Writing Services!

Photo of Meghan R.

Marci R.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi! My name is Marci. I am a graduate student in Monmouth University’s English/Creative Writing M.A./M.F.A. program. I received my B.A. in English/Education from Rider University and my M.Ed. in Special Education from Rutgers University. I am a high school Special Education English teacher. When I’m not reading or writing, you’ll find me cheering for the New York Yankees or enjoying a country music concert. I have previous experience as a Writing Assistant during my undergraduate time at Rider. I am very excited to help students at Monmouth achieve success with their writing!

marci

Prof. Sampson
Faculty Writing Assistant

I am proud to say that I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees from Monmouth University, and have been an adjunct professor at Monmouth since 2002, and at Kean University since 2009. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to work as a writing assistant with Monmouth’s EOF Program. In 2007 I began tutoring in the Writing Services department at Monmouth, and the experience has been truly rewarding. Writing on an academic level can be extremely challenging for students, so our goal in writing services is to help students become better writers and, in turn, increase their overall academic success. I try to bring my love for writing to the students I work with, and encourage good writing in all aspects of life.

Photo of Professor Lauren Sampson

Prof. Thomas
Faculty Writing Assistant

Michael Paul Thomas has been teaching creative writing at the university level for 30 years. A graduate of Hamilton College and Syracuse University’s prestigious MFA program, Michael has worked as the founding editor of Salt Hill Literary magazine, as a literature professor, and also as a consultant for public school teachers in teaching writing practices throughout upstate New York and the metropolitan area. Building upon his experience in literature seminars on EM Forster, DH Lawrence, Jane Austen, and James Baldwin, and while teaching at Monmouth University, Michael has designed writing curricula and taught over a thousand students from all majors across campus. Over the last seven years, he has mentored and coached more than two dozen graduate creative writing students for fiction, creative non-fiction and poetry thesis manuscripts. During his 15 years as Associate Dean, Michael wrote, edited, and presented hundreds of introductory speeches to a multitude of groups on campus, for the academic and surrounding, public communities. As director of Monmouth’s Center for the Arts Visiting Writers Series, Michael hosted, interviewed, and facilitated workshops with major American and international writers including Joyce Carol Oates, Marlon James, Amitav Ghosh, Caryl Philips, Hanif Abdurraqib, Nick Flynn, Robert Pinsky, Natasha Tretheway, and Mary Karr.

A recipient of the Raymond Carver Prize in Poetry and a NJ State Council on the Arts Fellowship, his poems have been published recently in Reel Verse: Poems about the Movies (Knopf), 5AM, Slice Magazine, The Greensboro Review, Connotation Press, Hayden’s Ferry Review, Great River Review, Hotel Amerika, Columbia Poetry Review, and Navigation 2 Nowhere. His research and teaching of the Confessional poets inspired an essay, “American Poetry and the Art of Confession: Dylan, Lowell & Bishop” accepted at the first “World of Bob Dylan Symposium” held in 2019 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Michael Thomas

Hana V.
Peer Writing Assistant

Hi, my name is Hana. I am currently a junior at Monmouth, majoring in English. In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and watching movies. I have always loved peer reviewing my friends’ papers, so I am looking forward to continuing this passion here at Writing Services!

Photo of Hana V., Peer Writing Assistant

Prof. Van Clef
Faculty Writing Assistant

Hello! My name is Sarah, and I am currently enrolled in the English/Creative Writing M.A/MFA program here at Monmouth. I received my B.A in Creative Writing and Communications Studies from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and I am looking forward to helping students find their voice through words.

Sarah

Emma V.
Graduate Writing Assistant

Hi everyone, I’m Emma. I study rhetoric and writing as part of Monmouth’s English M.A. program. In the not-too-distant past, I also earned my B.A. in English from the University, where I minored in art history and professional writing. When I’m not on campus, I work as a library assistant at my local public library. During a moment’s rest, you will often find me at the movies, knitting, or going on walks; perhaps you may even find me at an occasional tri-state-area concert.

Photo of Emma V

Prof. Zadotti
Faculty Writing Assistant

Hey there! My name is Robert Zadotti. I received both my B.A. and M.A. degrees in English/Creative Writing from Monmouth. I’m currently an adjunct professor of English and a current MFA student in Monmouth’s Creative Writing Program. When I’m not writing or teaching, you can find me reading fantasy or sci-fi, playing bass guitar, and playing tabletop or video games. I’m excited to work with you and help make your writing the best it can be!

Robert Zadotti