As a Tennessee native, Melissa Brinley is a sophomore studying Journalism and Electronic Media with a concentration in magazine and Honors Communication Studies.  Along with her contribution to the Tennessee Journalist, Melissa is a deejay for the on campus radio station, 90.3 "The Rock" and has been a piccolo player in the Pride of the Southland Marching Band for the past two years. 

In March of 2007, Melissa traveled with the Pride to Ireland to march in the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland.  She was also able to explore the land from which her family is from by learning of the Irish history and traditions of Guinness, importance of friendship and love for the arts of music and dance.  This is a cherished experience in her life, as she has a growing passion for travel, learning more about international cultures and their varying means of communication.  Melissa has also traveled to London, England and cannot wait for another opportunity to go back.  In June of 2007, Melissa traveled to Mexico to explore Hispanic customs and daily life first hand.  She was pleased to put her Spanish to use in a setting other than a classroom.

With plans to travel to Japan in the summer of 2008, Melissa is ecstatic of the many opportunities of a new adventure in her future.  She also hopes to study abroad in semesters to come.  Continuing her involvement in campus activities, Melissa plans to graduate in May 2010.  With plans to attend graduate school for international journalism in the works, Melissa is currently living life and learning as much as she can cram into her brain.  Other interests of Melissa's include photography, cooking, reading, animals and spending time with her family.