WRITING CENTER TUTOR BIOS, SPRING 2025
Kassie Culbertson (Tutor) is a senior at Indiana University Northwest. Kassie is majoring in English with a concentration in literature. They hope to go to graduate school for comparative literature, possibly somewhere in Latin America. Kassie is indebted to their mother who made sure her children were exposed to as much culture as possible growing up, and this in turn led to an ingrained love for all that the world has to offer. Kassie's particular interests include linguistics, modern languages, and bridging cultural gaps. In their free time, they read an unhealthy amount of horror fiction and enjoy writing an equally unhealthy amount of horror fiction. They also enjoy painting, drawing, and any other act which stretches their creativity.
Karissa Moore (Tutor) is a junior at Indiana University Northwest. She is an English Education major, who plans on teaching middle or high school students after graduation. Karissa is passionate about reading and writing, especially about the grammar and structural aspects of papers. As a future teacher and current tutor, she hopes to help students both enjoy writing and become better writers so they can succeed in both writing and life.
Lexi Naumoski (Tutor) is a junior pre-law student with a major in Political Science, who is deeply passionate about the power of effective communication and its role in shaping ideas, arguments, and change. Her academic journey has been driven by a commitment to understanding diverse perspectives and developing the critical thinking skills necessary for success in both academia and beyond. When she is not researching the intersection of legal studies and political science, Lexi enjoys watching soccer, spending quality time with loved ones, and eating sushi with her boyfriend! She is also a strong advocate for mental health and believe in the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between academic life and personal well-being.
Sophie Ponto (Tutor) is a sophomore Nursing student at lUN, with aspirations to ultimately become a CRNA. Originally from Saint John, she has a passion for both writing and healthcare. Tutoring at the Writing Center allows her to share this passion and help other students find their voice in writing. As a tutor, she hopes to empower students at the Writing Center to communicate their ideas with clarity and confidence.
Safaa Tarakey (Tutor) is a senior at Indiana University Northwest, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a pre-medical focus. She is also minoring in Chemistry, Neuroscience, and English. With the unwavering support of her mother, father, grandmother, and six younger sisters, Safaa plans to apply to medical school after graduation. In addition to her academic pursuits, Safaa is deeply involved in campus life. She conducts research within the Psychology Department and serves as the College of Arts and Science Representative in Student Government, along with being involved in other student organizations, where she actively works to foster positive change on campus. She also founded the Grandma Club, a student organization dedicated to raising mental health and wellness awareness within the university community. Safaa takes pride in helping fellow students enhance their writing and communication skills. Through her role as a tutor, she is committed to supporting her peers in becoming confident, effective writers, and she finds joy in contributing to their academic growth.
Maxwell Votaw (Tutor) is a sophomore at Indiana University Northwest. He is an English Writing major and plans to continue his education at the graduate level. After college, he hopes to work as an editor or a university educator. Maxwell is especially interested in grammar, syntax, and English etymology. He is also passionate about poetry, film, fantasy writing, and Middle English literature. As a tutor, he looks forward to helping students polish their writing while encouraging them to find their own voices.
Carissa Urra (Student Director) is currently in her junior year at IU Northwest. Carissa is majoring in Biology and minoring in Chemistry and English. She is a member of the IU Northwest Women’s Soccer Team. Through her work in the writing center, Carissa is hoping to help make students feel more comfortable with approaching writing assignments regardless of their majors. She wants students to feel reassured and confident when expressing their writing both inside and outside of the classroom.
