Email Melissa Hawkins, EdS

I am currently the International Teaching and Learning Specialist in UAB's Center for Teacher and Learning. I am also an Adjunct Instructor for the Graduate Program for Teaching English as a Second Language at UAB. Formerly, I was the Manager of Accreditation and Program Development for the INTO UAB English Language Programs. I have an Educational Specialist degree in ESL from UAB and a Master's in TESOL from the University of Alabama. My undergraduate degree is from Samford University in English and Speech Communications. I am currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Studies of Diverse Populations at UAB with an emphasis in Pedagogical Studies and TESOL.

I have worked in the field of TESOL for over 25 years. My experience includes both university teaching and adult community-based instruction in Belgium, Japan, and the United States, directing a language program start-up, and managing an intensive English program, as well as observing and managing teachers. My history with the UAB MA-TESOL program includes teaching the practicum seminar, mentoring students through their practicum teaching, and serving on the Advisory Council for many years.

My research interests include language learning strategies, language learner identities, and the impact of university internationalization on teaching practices. Whether I am working with students, teacher, teachers-in-training, or in an administrative role, my favorite things about my job are the privilege of getting to know people from all over the globe, helping to facilitate best practices in teaching and learning, and how I get to observe intercultural communication in action every day.