In 2010, Melissa began her university studies at UKZN PMB, as she studied towards a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree. Melissa majored in Drama and Psychology. Whilst studying, she joined the Helen O'Grady Drama Academy in Pietermaritzburg as a part-time teacher. Melissa began working closely with Claire Snyders, the long time owner and Principal of the Academy. Melissa's passion for the dramatic arts, for teaching and for assisting in the development of children through the Helen O'Grady Drama System propelled her to obtain her Post Graduate Certificate in Education and to qualify as a Dramatic Arts teacher in 2014. In 2016, she was appointed Vice Principal of the Helen O'Grady Drama Academy in Pietermaritzburg, and entered a grooming process to eventually become Principal. At the end of 2019, Claire Snyders retired as Principal and handed the reigns to the extremely capable, well-trained and perfectly qualified Melissa Wessels.