Shantel brings a powerful blend of writing, music, and teaching to her work with students. She earned her B.A. from the CUNY College of Staten Island through the Verrazzano Honors Program, where she focused on writing, journalism, and American studies. As both an educator and performing artist, Shantel has worked with students from middle school through college, helping them develop confidence in their voice and a deeper connection to their own stories.
Shantel is especially skilled at helping students access their authentic voice and express themselves with honesty and clarity. Her background in songwriting, journalism, and creative writing allows her to guide students in crafting essays that feel personal, emotionally resonant, and true to who they are. She believes writing is an extension of the self, and she works closely with students to help them show up fully on the page.
She lives in Brooklyn, where she continues to write, perform, and explore creative work. Shantel is a guitarist, has appeared on television performing her original music, and brings both artistic depth and real-world perspective to her work. She is endlessly curious, whether that means deep-diving into unsolved cases or reflecting on the moments that shape who we become.
Best match for: students who are creative, expressive, or drawn to music, writing, or the arts; students who want help finding and trusting their voice; and those who want their essays to feel personal, honest, and emotionally engaging. She is also a strong fit for students who may feel unsure how to express themselves and need support building confidence in their writing.