Melissa is from Northbrook, IL, and started skating when she was around 5 years old. As soon as she stepped on the ice, she knew that she wanted to become a part of the competitive atmosphere. She joined the Glenview Blades when she was 6 years old and was on the team for 5 seasons. Going into 7th grade, she decided to join the Chicago Jazz and started competing with Team USA as well. Melissa attended Miami University. Melissa skated for Miami on the Senior Varsity Synchronized Skating team for all four years.

In her skating career, she has been able to accomplish many things and compete under the American Flag with a National Title, competing with the Junior World team, and received numerous international medals.