This month, we sat down with Nessa Saleh, one of our writing coaches, to learn more about her role at Options.
Tell me a bit about your background.
I have a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of British Columbia. My academic interests focused on ethics and moral philosophy. Before joining the Options Solutions team, I provided tutoring in English and Social Studies, helping students strengthen their writing and critical thinking skills. I’m passionate about supporting students in achieving their individual goals through personalized guidance and encouragement. I believe that every student has unique strengths and challenges, and that through honest communication, consistency, and encouragement, each student can reach their goals. I’m deeply committed to creating a supportive and intellectually engaging learning environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and independence.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
My go-to productivity trick is time-blocking. I find it helpful to divide my day into structured segments and assign tasks to each block. I usually plan a week ahead, so I have a clear sense of my upcoming responsibilities and appointments. I also make sure to schedule intentional breaks, so I can keep a healthy balance. Whether I use my Google Calendar or jot everything down in a notebook, visualizing my time helps me stay organized, set reminders, and remain consistently productive.
What do you spend too much time doing?
I definitely spend too much time listening to music and creating playlists. Music is a big part of my daily routine, and I love starting my mornings with a good album to set the tone for the day. Over time, curating playlists has become a hobby—I enjoy putting together collections that match certain moods or themes, often for friends and family. Songs carry memories, so I find myself getting lost in the process more often than I probably should.
If you could teach a university course, what would it be?
If I could teach any university course, I would choose moral ethics. I took a moral ethics class during my undergraduate studies and found the experience incredibly rewarding. The combination of analytical thinking and personal reflection felt meaningful and applicable to everyday life. I would love the opportunity to explore how different people approach key ethical questions and to facilitate conversations that encourage a deeper understanding of this field.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
If I had to choose a theme song, I would pick Vienna by Billy Joel. The song’s calming melody, paired with its message—reminding us to slow down and not rush through life—resonates with me deeply. I tend to get swept up in day-to-day responsibilities, so hearing that reminder feels grounding. In many ways, the song reflects the more patient and reflective side of my personality.
Ready to meet a writing coach? Contact us today to book in!
