Melissa Kopyto
Power Words
Where were you born?
Lusby, Maryland
What school did you attend?
Strayer University
What gained you interest in the NIH?
I was a contractor for many years before joining NIH approximately 5 years ago. NIH represents the future, advancement and cure of undiagnosed diseases which I am proud to represent.
What kind of work do you do at the NIH?
I am currently a Program Analyst with the Office of Management Analysis and Reporting at the Clinical Center. In my role, I currently develop presentation materials for meetings with Clinical Center (CC) governing bodies including the Advisory Board for Clinical Research (ABCR), ABCR Finance Working Group, Medical Executive Committee, and CC Executive Committee. I also assist the Office of the Director staff with special projects which includes accurately and thoroughly collects data from a variety of sources that are then used to create written reports, position papers, and summaries.
What message would you like to send to young Blacks who are considering going to college?
Go to college. Go to college. Go to college. :-) I started working directly out of high school many years ago and actually thought a college education was a 'waste'. I realized that was a mistake and often times wonder how my career path would have been different if I would have received my degree much sooner.