Melissa Fishman

Melissa Fishman was nominated by fellow student Miranda Wetrick who said “Melissa has been through a lot of hard times but she has stood strong through them and returned to UNCW to graduate. She has a heart for children with disabilities. She coaches Special Olympic swimming as a volunteer and works with other children as often as possible. Melissa also works full time and goes to school full time.”

Melissa is a 23 year old senior, majoring in therapeutic recreation. She expects to graduate in December 2005. She has been very active during her years at UNCW. Melissa was involved with the UNCW Swim Team from 2000-2002 and on the Ultimate Frisbee team “Seaweed” for two seasons. She is also a member of the Recreation Majors Association and the Student Council for Exceptional Children.

Aside from school, Melissa is very involved in the community. She has been a Special Olympic swim coach for many years and has coached over 12 children. She is also a volunteer for therapeutic horseback riding which she says “allows disabled people to participate in an enjoyable activity and experience physical benefits such as improved balance and coordination, greater strength and muscle control and increased range of motion.” Melissa also has a green belt in Taekwondo.

Melissa has met several challenges in life as well as during her time at UNCW. She says that one is being a lesbian. Melissa says that “it is challenging not living by society’s terms.” She also has two brothers who are disabled and has fragile X syndrome herself.

“Helping people with disabilities achieve something they have been working hard to achieve” is one of Melissa’s greatest achievements. We certainly admire her for her work and dedication to the Special Olympics.

Melissa would like to thank her friends and family for helping her during her journey.

After graduation, Melissa plans to get a job in therapeutic recreation either with children and aquatics or children and animals. She also plans to lead a stable life and start a family.

Melissa’s advice for other non-traditional students is very simple. She says “just be yourself.” We couldn’t agree more!
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The Seahawk Perch congratulates Melissa Fishman as our March 2005 Non-Trad of the Month!